Fiat-Chrysler recalls 4.8 million vehicles due to technical defect

The carmaker said vehicles will be fixed free of charge

The manufacturer said no injuries had been reported as a result of the fault (Reuters)

Fiat Chrysler has recalled 4.8 million vehicles due to a software defect which could lead to drivers being unable to cancel cruise-control systems.

The carmaker said the recall affects vehicles in the US market, and is being issued because in certain driving conditions, acceleration may cause a problem with cruise control.

In certain vehicles, if an automatic acceleration were to occur simultaneously with a short-circuit in a specific electrical network, a driver could be unable to cancel cruise-control, the company said.

Fiat Chrysler said it is “unaware of any related injuries or accidents involving the affected vehicles, which span six model-years and account for more than 200 billion travel miles”.

“Notwithstanding the extraordinary circumstances that must exist before a customer would experience a problem, we are taking this action because we are fully committed to vehicle safety,” said Mark Chernoby, chief technical compliance officer.

“We have a remedy and a widespread network of engaged dealers who are preparing to deliver service. We urge customers to follow the instructions on their recall notices.”

The company said the following vehicles could be affected:

• 2015-17 Chrysler 200 sedan

• 2014-18 Chrysler 300 sedan

• 2017-18 Chrysler Pacifica minivan

• 2015-18 Dodge Challenger coupe

• 2014-18 Dodge Charger sedan

• 2014-18 Dodge Journey CUV

• 2014-18 Dodge Durango SUV

• 2014-18 Jeep Cherokee SUV

• 2014-18 Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV

• 2018 Jeep Wrangler

• 2014-19 Ram 1500 pickup

• 2014-18 Ram 2500 pickup

• 2014-18 Ram 3500 pickup