Frequently asked questions about the Fiat Chrysler (Jeep) recall
If you drive a Jeep Grand Cherokee or Commander, chances are you’ve probably heard or paid close attention to the news regarding the defects in certain vehicles. We’ll try to answer a few questions you may have here.
How do I know if my vehicle is part of these recalls?
Find your vehicle’s vehicle identification number (VIN), which is etched on or affixed to the lower driver’s side corner area where the windshield meets the dash. Go to NHTSA’s SaferCar.gov website, and type in your VIN. The site will tell you whether the vehicle is subject to a recall. Do not ignore the results. These recalls are for defects that pose serious, life-threatening safety hazards. Get your recall taken care of ASAP.
What are the details of the case?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has levied up to $105 million against Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) in Fiat Chrysler recall-related penalties. NHTSA announced on July 26, 2015 that Fiat Chrysler acknowledged violations of the Motor Vehicle Safety Act’s requirements to repair vehicles with safety defects. Fiat Chrysler agreed to submit to rigorous federal oversight, buy back some defective Fiat Chrysler vehicles, and pay a $105 million civil penalty, the largest ever imposed by NHTSA.
This enforcement action follows Fiat Chrysler’s inadequate execution of 23 vehicle safety recalls covering more than 11 million defective Fiat Chrysler vehicles. Fiat Chrysler has admitted to violating the Motor Vehicle Safety Act in three areas: effective and timely recall remedies, notification to vehicle owners and notifications to NHTSA.
What are my options as a Jeep owner?
Fiat Chrysler has committed to take action to get defective vehicles off the roads or repaired. Owners of more than 500,000 vehicles with defective suspension parts that could cause the vehicle to lose control will have the opportunity to sell their vehicle back to Fiat Chrysler. Owners of more than one million Jeeps that are prone to deadly fires either will have the chance to trade their vehicle in for above its market value, or will receive a financial incentive to get their vehicle remedied.
Michael Phelan is a Virginia trial attorney who practices with a special focus on traumatic brain injury (TBI) cases, pharmaceutical and medical device claims, product liability cases, and truck accidents. Michael’s peers have consistently recognized him for his excellence as a trial lawyer, and his clients have praised him for his commitment to deep research, his outstanding communication skills, and his sincerity and dedication.