News sources report, Chrysler Group LLC is recalling model year 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans due to the possibility that an airbag componant may have been exposed to moisture causing the airbag warning light to illuminate or posing a risk of unexpected airbag deployment.
The recall was initiated to replace the occupant restrain control module (ORC), which is part of the airbag system. The ORC modules have a printed circuit board that, if exposed to moisture, can delaminate over time leading to airbag dysfunction.
According to a document the Chrysler filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the vans subject to recall were built from June 24, 2007, through July 30, 2008. The recall affects 299,718 minivans, most of which were sold in the U.S.; however the carmaker reports 50,251 were sold in Canada, 3,748 in Mexico, and 13,633 vehicles were export models.
In January, the same group of minivan was recalled to replace a drain grommet for the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system because the grommet could allow moisture to seep into the area around the ORC.
Chrysler says the carmaker will start notifying consumers of the recall in September and dealers will replace the affected unit at no cost to consumers.
As a Fresno personal injury lawyer, I encourage motorists to who own one of the affected minivans to stay safe by having their vehicle serviced as soon as they are notified of the recall.