2014 Ram Promaster recalled over brake hoses

Sun, 02 Mar 2014

It's barely been a year since Chrysler brought the Fiat Ducato over to these United States as the Ram Promaster, but already it's being subjected to its second recall – both of them revolving around essential controls that are critical to the vehicle's operation.

The first came less than a month ago, when the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration issued a recall for nearly 10,000 of the vans due to a sticky accelerator pedal. Now Chrysler has issued a second recall to deal with the brake hose.

This second recall affects some 6,800 units of the ProMaster, half of which Chrysler says are on dealer lots. The automaker is instructing dealers to inspect both the vehicles it has in stock and to bring in customer vehicles to perform the same check, to ensure that the brake hose was properly installed in the first place. If not, the brake hose will be replaced.

Apparently the problem was linked back to a wrench that was (but is no longer) used in the vehicle's assembly. Chrysler estimates that only two percent of the vehicles in question will actually need repair, and has not received any reports of accidents resulting from the problem at hand.

STATEMENT: BRAKE HOSE

February 28, 2014 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Chrysler Group LLC will conduct a safety recall to inspect approximately 6,800 full-size vans and, if necessary, replace a brake hose.

A routine post-production test on one van discovered damage that could degrade brake performance. Damage was linked to the use of a specific wrench during assembly; it is no longer used.

Chrysler Group is unaware of any related injuries, accidents or complaints.

Approximately half of the affected vehicles, all model-year 2014 Ram ProMasters, are in dealer hands. Chrysler Group expects less than two percent of the total will require repair.

If damage is observed, the brake hose will be replaced.

Chrysler Group will notify affected customers; all repair costs will be borne by the Company.

Customers who remain concerned may call 1-800-853-1403.

By Noah Joseph