Stellantis is recalling nearly 285,000 Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 sedans in the United States due to faulty side curtain airbag inflators that could rupture and send metal shrapnel into the cabin. The airbag inflators rely on a chemical reaction to rapidly inflate the airbag, but moisture may have entered some inflators during the manufacturing process, leading to internal corrosion and potential cracks in the inflator. These issues affect models from 2018 to 2021 of both the Charger and 300, but no other Stellantis models are impacted by this recall.
Although the airbag inflator issue is reminiscent of the massive Takata airbag inflator recall, this problem is said to be unrelated. Stellantis will begin sending recall notifications to Charger and 300 owners in early May, instructing them to bring their cars to a dealership to have both side airbags replaced free of charge. Those who have already had their side curtain airbags replaced will be reimbursed for the cost. Despite five instances of the airbag inflators bursting, no accidents or injuries have been reported as a result of this issue, as all incidents occurred in parked vehicles where the interior temperature exceeded 120 degrees.
The Charger and 300 sedans are large vehicles sharing much of their engineering, making it possible for the same airbag inflators to be used in both models. However, Stellantis has confirmed that these faulty inflators were not installed in any other vehicles produced by the automaker. Stellantis’ proactive approach to addressing the issue by issuing a recall and arranging for free replacements reflects the company’s commitment to ensuring the safety of its customers. By reaching out to owners and offering to cover the costs of replacement, Stellantis is taking responsibility for the potential risks posed by the defective airbag inflators.
While the faulty airbag inflators in the Charger and 300 sedans pose a serious safety hazard, Stellantis is working diligently to rectify the issue and minimize any potential harm to drivers and passengers. The company’s decision to act promptly and provide replacements at no cost underscores its dedication to maintaining high safety standards across its vehicle lineup. By taking steps to notify owners and facilitate the recall process, Stellantis is demonstrating its commitment to customer satisfaction and safety, ultimately striving to uphold its reputation as a responsible automaker in the industry.
In conclusion, the recall of Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 sedans by Stellantis due to faulty side curtain airbag inflators highlights the importance of proactive safety measures in the automotive industry. By addressing the issue promptly and offering free replacements to affected owners, Stellantis is prioritizing customer safety and satisfaction. Despite the potential safety risks associated with the defective airbag inflators, no accidents or injuries have been reported so far, and Stellantis is committed to rectifying the problem to ensure the continued well-being of its customers. As the recall process begins, Stellantis aims to uphold its reputation as a responsible automaker by taking decisive action to mitigate any potential harm posed by the faulty airbag inflators.
