Stellantis recently issued a recall for approximately 318,000 Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 cars, citing concerns the side curtain airbag inflators could potentially explode.
The recall targets the 2018-2021 models of both vehicles, which are equipped with left- and right-side airbag inflatable curtains that use different inflators and propellants than Takata airbags previously associated with recalls.
Chrysler investigated five incidents where the inflatable curtain airbag inflators malfunctioned, all occurring under interior temperatures exceeding 120 degrees. There have been no reports of crashes or injuries attributed to this defect.
The investigation revealed the inflators might fracture over time, a condition exacerbated by moisture-induced corrosion traceable to the manufacturing process.
Stellantis said as of Feb. 21, there have been a few customer assistance records and warranty claims potentially linked to this issue, but no field reports have been confirmed. The company estimates less than 1% of the cars in question are affected by this potential flaw.
The recall predominantly affects the U.S. market, with approximately 285,000 cars, and extends to Canada, Mexico and other countries, adding up to around 318,000 vehicles globally.
Owners of the impacted vehicles will receive notification letters by May 3, and are advised to contact their dealers for the replacement of both side curtain airbags. Owners may contact customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Stellantis' number for this recall is 19B.
In another announcement, Stellantis also initiated a recall for more than 1,000 Mopar side curtain airbags sold as replacement parts for 2011-2019 Dodge Charger and 2011-2020 Chrysler 300 cars.
Those airbags will be replaced or repurchased. Owners can use the same phone number to contact customer service. Stellantis number for this recall is 20B.
