Legally reviewed by: Jessica Anvar Stotz, JD, MBA
Stellantis has issued a recall of over 200,000 Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 vehicles due to a critical manufacturing flaw posing a significant safety risk. The defect involves the potential rupture of airbags, leading to the ejection of metal fragments that could result in severe harm or even fatalities for passengers.
According to recall documents from Fiat Chrysler America (FCA) to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the investigation into the inflator issue commenced last month, revealing that certain vehicles may have been affected by moisture infiltration into the inflator assembly.
This moisture has led to corrosion, significantly increasing the risk of rupturing. In the event of a rupture, the inflator could expel compressed gas and material throughout the vehicle, posing a grave danger to occupants. As such, owners of affected vehicles are strongly advised to take immediate action.
| Recall Information | Details |
| Total Vehicles Recalled | 284,982 potentially involved vehicles |
| Description of Noncompliance | Some 2018-2021 MY Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 vehicles may have been built with a side air bag inflatable curtain (“SABIC”) inflator that may rupture. |
| Stellantis Contact Number | 1-800-853-1403 |
| NHTSA Recall Number | 24V198 |
| Manufacturer Recall Number | 19B |
| Owner Notification Letters | May 3, 2024 |
FCA has reported to the NHTSA that there have been no accidents or injuries associated with the airbag inflator defect. Owners will be notified of the 2024 Exploding Airbag Recall beginning May 3, 2024.
What causes the Dodge Airbag Problem?
According to NHTSA, any rupturing of the airbag inflator can cause the release of sharp metal fragments, posing a direct threat to vehicle occupants, with the potential for causing serious injury or even fatalities. The rupture of the inflator mechanism compromises the integrity of the airbag system, transforming what should be a safety feature into a potential hazard.
Here’s what’s included in the Exploding Airbag Recall
The Exploding Airbag Recall encompasses a total of 284,982 vehicles, specifically targeting select models of the Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 manufactured between 2018 and 2021. The affected vehicles are as follows:
- Chrysler 300 sedans produced between July 5, 2018, and May 19, 2021.
- Dodge Charger sedans manufactured between July 5, 2018, and May 20, 2021.
A Stop sale order is currently in effect for the above-identified vehicles.
You can use the NHTSA’s recall verification site to check if your vehicle is part of the recall. Inputting your car’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) into the NHTSA’s website should yield recall information. Given the frequent issuance of recalls by automakers, especially for older vehicles, we advise periodically checking for updated safety notifications.
Here’s what’s NOT included in the Chrysler and Dodge Airbag Recall
The Chrysler and Dodge Airbag Recall specifically targets vehicles manufactured between 2018 and 2021. If your Chrysler or Dodge falls outside of this range and you have concerns about your airbag system, you should contact the manufacturer. Drivers can contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403, referencing recall number 19B for assistance.
Alternatively, you can also seek assistance from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or visit www.nhtsa.gov for further information. The NHTSA safety issue ID for this recall is 24V198, which can be monitored for updates.
What should I do if my Dodge or Chrysler was Recalled?
You are eligible to have your vehicle’s airbags replaced as part of the recall remedy, and Chrysler and Dodge dealerships will perform this service at no cost to you.
However, for those whose vehicles fall within the recall scope, it could be worth considering pursuing a lemon law claim. The issue of exploding airbags represents a significant manufacturing defect that can pose grave risks, including serious injury or even death in the event of an accident. Lemon law claims have been successful in cases involving far less severe vehicle issues.
Even if your vehicle isn’t part of the recall, but you’re experiencing recurring vehicle issues, pursuing a lemon law claim might also be your most viable recourse.
Get help from the Lemon Law Experts
The 2024 Chrysler and Dodge airbag inflator recall follows closely on the heels of another significant recall by Stellantis, where more than 338,000 Jeep Grand Cherokees were recalled due to a ball joint issue that could compromise driver control, as previously discussed here. Stellantis has encountered its fair share of recalls stemming from manufacturing errors.
Given the potential dangers associated with airbag defects, prompt action is highly recommended. If you qualify for a lemon law claim against Chrysler or Dodge, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including a replacement vehicle, cash reimbursement, or a refund as a result of your defective vehicle, including the payment of your legal fees and costs.
Purchased or leased your vehicle in California? The Lemon Law Experts can provide valuable assistance. As California’s premier lemon law legal team, the Lemon Law Experts hold years of experience serving people across the state.
Our dedicated team is committed to helping you secure the compensation and justice you deserve, regardless of the manufacturer or issue involved. Contact the Lemon Law Experts to enlist our support in pursuing recovery and justice for your lemon today.
