2009-2016 Dodge Journey recalled for steering problems. 200K cars affected.
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles is recalling nearly 200,000 Dodge Journey vehicles from the 2009 to 2016 model years. According to the automaker, some of those vehicles may experience problems with their power steering fluid lines, which could make the crossovers harder to steer.
The recall is limited to vehicles equipped with optional block heaters. In a press release announcing the recall, FCA says that in those vehicles, "some lines carrying power-steering fluid may leak at engine start-up, when the vehicle is subject to extreme cold".
Though the leakage won't prevent drivers from controlling their vehicles, it could cause steering to become much more physically demanding. In some situations, that could lead to an accident. However, FCA says that it hasn't received any reports of accidents or injuries to date.
Details of the underlying problem will be available when the recall is published on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's website.
The recall affects a total of 198,380 vehicles in North America. Of that number, 10,944 are registered in the U.S., and the remaining 187,436 are registered in Canada.
FCA says that it will mail recall notices to owners when replacement parts become available. Until that time, owners who have questions are encouraged to call the FCA US Customer Care Center at 1-800-853-1403.
