25,000 Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Durango SUVs recalled over brake feel

Mon, 10 Mar 2014

Chrysler has announced that it is recalling over 25,000 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango SUVs from several markets over concerns about brake feel under hard braking. The affected models are from the 2012 and 2013 model years, although the actual dates of production aren't available. 18,700 are in the US, while 825 are in Canada, 530 are in Mexico and a further 5,200 outside of North America.

According to a statement, Chrysler was informed of the issue by a component supplier for the Ready Alert Braking system, which primes the brakes in anticipation of an emergency stop. A component in the system was restricting the flow of brake fluid too much.

As Chrysler is quick to point out, the way the brakes functioned was in compliance with regulations and there are no reported cases of drivers losing braking power. Instead, the issue rests with what Chrysler calls a pedal feel that "was not consistent with customer expectations." So it would seem Chrysler is being proactive and fixing a problem not because there's a legal issue at work, but simply because it doesn't feel the way the manufacturer wants it to. Well done.

Customers will begin receiving notifications soon, and will need to report in for a complimentary software reflash, which should sort the issue out. Scroll down for the official press release from Chrysler.

Statement: Anti-Lock Brakes
March 7, 2014 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Chrysler Group is recalling approximately 25,250 SUVs to improve pedal feel during certain aggressive braking maneuvers.

A supplier raised with the Company a concern about the performance of a component that accommodates Ready Alert Braking, a Chrysler Group safety system that primes brakes for optimal response when making a sudden stop. Brake function was neither lost nor out of compliance with regulation, but pedal feel was not consistent with customer expectations.

Chrysler Group is unaware of any related injuries or accidents.

An investigation discovered brake-fluid flow was being restricted too much. A software update optimizes flow and restores appropriate pedal feel.

Affected are certain Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango SUVs from model years 2012 and 2013 – approximately 18,700 in the U.S., 825 in Canada, 530 in Mexico and 5,200 outside the NAFTA region.

Chrysler Group will notify affected customers when to schedule service. Repair costs will be borne by the Company.

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

By Brandon Turkus