Vehicle safety issue (Chrysler tsb 23-044-02), rust through of upper strut towers 1996-2000 Chrysler, Dodge, Plymouth minivans. Collapse of strut tower would result one or more of the following: 1/ sudden change of steering geometry; total loss of steering; lockup of one of the front wheels, blowout of one of the front tires. This is a problem which Chrysler has known about for years. They only issued a tsb once most of the vehicles involved (96-98) were beyond the manufactures rust perforation warranty. This should not be merely a "service" recall, but a "safety" recall. This is due to a manufacturing defect which failed to seal between component panels allowing moisture to penetrate and cause hidden rust issue which reveals itself only when the structural damage is already done. The recommended repair is also questionable -- utilizing only epoxy to afix a cap to the top of the strut. The inner rust perforation is not cut out, only covered up. The treatment is primarily cosmetic. I am very concerned about this issue and feel it has not only endangered life, but devalued the vehicle. I have paid to have the problem repaired but feel that this should be Chrysler's responsibility. I would appreciate any follow up you can do on my behalf and that of other minivan owners. (I've no doubt that the vast majority are yet unaware of the condition of their vehicles.) sincerely kelvin ironside mesa AZ.

- Mesa, AZ, USA