FCA US, which includes brands such as Jeep, Ram, Chrysler and Dodge, has recalled over 48,000 vehicles due to a seat belt issue that could cause drivers to suffer injuries.
FCA US recalled 48,777 Dodge Hornet and Alfa Romeo Tonale vehicles, noting that the vehicles were built with rear outboard seat belts that may become twisted, preventing them from retracting.
"Seat belts that do not freely retract or maintain tension do not provide the designed occupant restraint function, which can increase the risk of injury to occupants during certain types of crashes or holding occupants in place," FCA US wrote in an announcement on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website.
There have been no reports of injuries or accidents related to
the recall, the company said. However, the company did report 484 warranty claims connected to the issue.
Here’s what we know about the recall.
Which vehicles were recalled?
Most of the recalled vehicles are 2023 to 2025 Dodge Hornets, FCA US said.
Here’s the breakdown:
- 2023 to 2025 Dodge Hornet – 40,386 vehicles
- 2023 to 2026 Alfa Romeo Tonale – 8,391 vehicles
The company said the seat belts were made with parts from Autoliv ASP, Inc. of southeast Michigan. Stellantis Europe, parent company of FCA US, began an investigation into the seat belt issue in May. The company’s engineering team found that the defect was tied to a design weakness.
What’s the fix?
FCA US said the company will replace the rear outboard seat belt retractors for free. The NHTSA’s recall no. is 26V510. FCA US’s recall no. is 84D.
The company will begin notifying owners on Sept. 24.
Owners who need help can contact FCA US customer service at 800-853-1403.
Saleen Martin is a reporter on USA TODAY’s trending team. She is from Norfolk, Virginia – the 757. Email her at sdmartin@usatoday.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 48K Dodge, Alfa Romeo vehicles recalled over seat belt issue
