Cruise control is a useful tool that many drivers utilize on a daily basis, so they don’t have to constantly push the accelerator in order to continue driving. Unfortunately, cruise control faults are the culprit behind this massive vehicle recall issued by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), an automobile giant recognized internationally.
While using cruise control, it is sometimes necessary for the car to increase acceleration in order to maintain speed, for example, while going up a hill. However, on the recalled vehicles, if the cruise control setting accelerates at the same time that a short circuit occurred in another portion of the electrical control of the car, the cruise control may become too powerful to stop. This can cause devastating effects to not only the people in the car, but surrounding cars and pedestrians as well.
If a driver is in this situation, he or she should try to stop the car by leaning heavily into the brakes to attempt for the brakes to overpower the engine, bringing the car to a stop. It is also possible to stop the car by shifting it into neutral followed by pushing on the brakes. To completely shut off the cruise control setting, put the car in park once the vehicle is at a complete stop.
Recalled cars include the following:
- 2015-2017 Chrysler 200
- 2014-2018 Chrysler 300
- 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica
- 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger
- 2014-2018 Dodge Charger
- 2014-2018 Dodge Journey
- 2014-2018 Dodge Durango
- 2014-2018 Jeep Cherokee
- 2014-2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- 2018 Jeep Wrangler
- 2014-2019 Ram 1500
- 2014-2018 Ram 2500, 3500, 3500/4500/5500 chassis cab
If your vehicle is on the above list, it is best to avoid using cruise control altogether.
Contact our experienced lawyers at Krohn & Moss, Ltd. Consumer Law Center® if you have questions about the recalled FCA vehicles. Our lemon law attorneys want to talk with you to see whether or not we can help with your case. Visit our website at www.yourlemonlawrights.com or call us toll-free: 1-800-US-LEMON (800-875-3666) to get started.
Source: Your Lemon Law Rights
