— Fiat Chrysler (FCA US) is recalling more than 1,800 SUVs to repair problems with the seats. The 2014-2016 Jeep Cherokee SUVs are equipped with seat fasteners on the seats that may not have been tightened to the correct torque specification.
The problem could cause the seats to move when they shouldn't and leave occupants in trouble during a crash.
A Chrysler plant discovered a loose rear seat fastener in February 2016 and the seat supplier was notified about the find. The supplier determined between July 29, 2013, and February 5, 2016, a software bypass process used during assembly was responsible for the low-torque seat fastener.
The automaker says the assembly operator has two attempts to achieve the proper torque on fastener joints, then after two attempts, the supervisor steps in and has two attempts to achieve the proper torque.
If the joint or torque does not pass after these four attempts, the seat should be bypassed to the rework conveyor, but that didn't happen this time. Instead, the seats were shipped to FCA without anyone knowing the fasteners were defective.
The 2014-2016 Jeep Cherokees were built July 29, 2013, to February 5, 2016. Chrysler says no reports have been received about accidents or injuries related to the problem.
The Jeep Cherokee recall should begin September 23, 2016, when dealers will replace the seats or seat sets.
Owners of the 2014-2016 Jeep Cherokee SUVs may contact Chrysler at 800-853-1403 and use recall number S63.
Chrysler 200 Recall
A separate recall of about 200 model year 2016 Chrysler 200 cars also involves fastener problems, but in this case the automaker says multiple fastener joints may not have been tightened properly.
FCA says the chassis fastener joints can fail or fall out and cause problems with steering and handling.
The automaker says it has already notified the limited number of owners who are affected. Those owners were told that dealers will inspect the joints and tighten or replace the fasteners.
Owners of the Chrysler 200 who have questions should call 800-853-1403 and use recall number S59.
