85,000 Chrysler 200’s to be recalled

As we near the end of August, it is common for dealerships to advertise steep discounts for prior model year vehicles in an attempt to make room for new cars as they are introduced by automakers. This year is no different. As Chrysler dealerships make room for 2016 Chrysler 200 models, 2015 models will generate a discount, and sales of the prior model will expectedly go up.

However, the 2015 models are not without their flaws. According to recent media reports, Chrysler-Fiat will recall more than 85,000 new Chrysler 200’s because of an electrical problem that could cause the cars to stall unexpectedly. Essentially, the car could suddenly shift from drive to neutral or the engine could shut down by itself.

Chrysler-Fiat maintains that the problem was based on a supplier’s post production tests and that it will honor any repair request based on the recall. So far, the company does not know of any accidents or injuries based on the electrical defect.

Chrysler’s notice is important in two respects. First, it is critical for the company to maintain consumer confidence. While 85,000 is a large number, it is small compared to the number of vehicles sold worldwide. Nevertheless, recall notices could have a chilling effect on buyers.

Second, Chrysler-Fiat has an ongoing legal obligation to inform consumers of potentially dangerous defects, and to take reasonable steps to fix them. If the company fails to adhere to this obligation, and a consumer is injured in an accident caused by the defect, Chrysler-Fiat could be held liable.