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2008 Dodge Charger

Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations

Limited comparison data

There is not enough comparable history to draw a useful model-year comparison.

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When problems were reported

Mileage at the reported incident

393 reports with mileage · 216 unknown

NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.

What to inspect

Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.

  • Electrical System. Review the 391 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Air Bags. Review the 124 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Engine. Review the 89 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →

NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.

24 crash reports22 fire reports17 injury reports

What owners actually said

609 reports
Mileage unknown · Aug 23, 2017
Air Bags

DEALER ADVISED AIR BAG NOT AVAILABLE

NHTSA ODI #11019080

160,000 miles · Aug 14, 2017
Structure

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 DODGE CHARGER. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, THE CONTACT OBSERVED THAT THE DRIVER'S DOOR BECAME INOPERABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL DEALER (, GRIEGER'S MOTOR 1756 US. HIGHWAY 30 WEST, VALPARAISO, IN 46385) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE LOWER DOOR HINGE FRAME FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED…

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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 DODGE CHARGER. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, THE CONTACT OBSERVED THAT THE DRIVER'S DOOR BECAME INOPERABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL DEALER (, GRIEGER'S MOTOR 1756 US. HIGHWAY 30 WEST, VALPARAISO, IN 46385) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE LOWER DOOR HINGE FRAME FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. NO FURTHER ASSISTANCE WAS PROVIDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 160,000.

NHTSA ODI #11015215

171,000 miles · Jul 31, 2017
Engine

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 DODGE CHARGER. THE CONTACT NOTICED STEAM COMING FROM THE VEHICLE AND IT SHOOK PROFUSELY. IN ADDITION, COOLANT BEGAN TO LEAK FROM THE VEHICLE AND ONTO THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE OVERHEATED AND SHUT OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS ALSO LEAKING OIL. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE V…

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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 DODGE CHARGER. THE CONTACT NOTICED STEAM COMING FROM THE VEHICLE AND IT SHOOK PROFUSELY. IN ADDITION, COOLANT BEGAN TO LEAK FROM THE VEHICLE AND ONTO THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE OVERHEATED AND SHUT OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS ALSO LEAKING OIL. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE STAN MCNABD CHRYSLER CHEVROLET DODGE DEALER AND THE RADIATOR WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 171,000.

NHTSA ODI #11011654

119,000 miles · Jul 23, 2017
Electrical System

MY BATTERY EXPLODED. THIS WAS THE ORIGINAL BATTERY I BOUGHT THE CAR WITH WHEN I BOUGHT THE CAR BRAND NEW. I GOT IN MY CAR, TURNED THE KEY AND HEARD A HUGE EXPLOSION. THE CONCUSSION FROM THE EXPLOSION ACTUALLY MOVED MY SHIRT. THE BATTERY HAD EXPLODED IN THE TRUNK. NOTHING HAS BEEN ADDED TO THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. I BABY THIS C…

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MY BATTERY EXPLODED. THIS WAS THE ORIGINAL BATTERY I BOUGHT THE CAR WITH WHEN I BOUGHT THE CAR BRAND NEW. I GOT IN MY CAR, TURNED THE KEY AND HEARD A HUGE EXPLOSION. THE CONCUSSION FROM THE EXPLOSION ACTUALLY MOVED MY SHIRT. THE BATTERY HAD EXPLODED IN THE TRUNK. NOTHING HAS BEEN ADDED TO THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. I BABY THIS CAR AND TAKE IT IN EVERY 3 THOUSAND MILES FOR MAINTENANCE. THE BATTERY WAS IN PIECES AND BATTERY ACID WAS EVERYWHERE. IF I WAS STANDING BY THE TRUNK WITH IT OPENED I WOULD'VE BEEN BADLY HARMED.

NHTSA ODI #11010137

Mileage unknown · Jul 3, 2017
Electrical System

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 DODGE CHARGER. AFTER DRIVING THE VEHICLE AND TURNING IT OFF, THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO RESTART THE VEHICLE BUT THE IGNITION SWITCH FAILED TO TURN. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AUTO NATION CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM MOBILE (LOCATED AT 3118 GOVERNMENT BLVD, MOBILE, …

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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 DODGE CHARGER. AFTER DRIVING THE VEHICLE AND TURNING IT OFF, THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO RESTART THE VEHICLE BUT THE IGNITION SWITCH FAILED TO TURN. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AUTO NATION CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM MOBILE (LOCATED AT 3118 GOVERNMENT BLVD, MOBILE, AL 36606, (251) 202-2253) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE IGNITION SWITCH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE IGNITION SWITCH AND A NEW MODULE WERE PREVIOUSLY REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE CONTACT REFERENCED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V567000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNAVAILABLE.

NHTSA ODI #11002871

Mileage unknown · Jun 28, 2017
Air Bags

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 DODGE CHARGER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 15V313000 AND 16V352000 (AIR BAGS). THE PART NEEDED FOR THE REPAIR WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUF…

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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 DODGE CHARGER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 15V313000 AND 16V352000 (AIR BAGS). THE PART NEEDED FOR THE REPAIR WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.

NHTSA ODI #11002016

180,000 miles · Jun 7, 2017
EngineFire

MY RADIATOR FAN BLADE BROKE OFF AND FLEW INTO MY RADIATOR. THE PIECE OF FAN THAT BROKE OFF FLEW INTO MY RADIATOR PUNCTURING A HOLE INTO THE LOWER PART OF THE RADIATOR. A HOLE WAS MADE FROM THE BLADE HITTING IT AND CAUSING ALL THE ANTIFREEZE TO LEAK OUT. THIS IS SECOND TIME IN A TWO YEAR PERIOD BACK-TO-BACK THAT THIS HAS HAPPENED…

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MY RADIATOR FAN BLADE BROKE OFF AND FLEW INTO MY RADIATOR. THE PIECE OF FAN THAT BROKE OFF FLEW INTO MY RADIATOR PUNCTURING A HOLE INTO THE LOWER PART OF THE RADIATOR. A HOLE WAS MADE FROM THE BLADE HITTING IT AND CAUSING ALL THE ANTIFREEZE TO LEAK OUT. THIS IS SECOND TIME IN A TWO YEAR PERIOD BACK-TO-BACK THAT THIS HAS HAPPENED. AND THE REPAIRS AND PARTS COSTED ME DEARLY. THE VEHICLE WAS SITTING STILL WITH THE AIR CONDITIONER ON MID WAY. AND THE AS THE FAN WAS TURNING THE BROKEN BLADE GOT STUCK AND THE FAN STARTED TO SMOKE ALMOST CATCHING FIRE.

NHTSA ODI #10993670

197,000 miles · Jun 1, 2017
Engine

RECALL L08 ENGINE COOLING FANS, THIS RECALL IS EXACTLY WHAT HAPPEN TO MY CAR. COOLING BLADES BROKE AND WENT THROUGH THE RADIATOR. CALLED CHRYSLER TO COMPLAIN AS I WAS TOLD RECALL ISN'T ON MY EXACT VIN. THEY TOOK MY COMPLAINT AND SAID IT WAS THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM BUT TOUGH LUCK BECAUSE THE RECALL WASN'T ON MY VIN. MY CAR HAS…

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RECALL L08 ENGINE COOLING FANS, THIS RECALL IS EXACTLY WHAT HAPPEN TO MY CAR. COOLING BLADES BROKE AND WENT THROUGH THE RADIATOR. CALLED CHRYSLER TO COMPLAIN AS I WAS TOLD RECALL ISN'T ON MY EXACT VIN. THEY TOOK MY COMPLAINT AND SAID IT WAS THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM BUT TOUGH LUCK BECAUSE THE RECALL WASN'T ON MY VIN. MY CAR HAS BEEN SITTING IN THE FRONT YARD TILL I CAN AFFORD TO FIX IT ONLY HAD THE CAR 2 MONTHS. SITTING AT THE LIGHT FELT LIKE SOMEONE BUMPED THE BACK OF MY CAR BUT THERE WAS NO CAR BEHIND ME. COOLANT STARTED TO LEAK THROUGH THE A/C VENT. PULLED OVER AFTER THE LIGHT CHANGED AND TOWED THE CAR HOME AS IT JUST STARTED TO SHOW THAT IT WAS GOING TO OVERHEAT. WE REMOVED THE COOLING FAN AND SAW THE BROKEN BLADES AND THE WHOLE IT MADE IN THE RADIATOR. I WAS TOLD BY CHRYSLER THAT THE BLADES ARE CHEAP AND BREAK EASILY. WELL HELLO IF I AM GOING TO PAY THAT MUCH I HOPE THAT A VEHICLE IS GOING TO SOMEWHAT HOLD TOGETHER. THE DEALERSHIP I BOUGHT IT FROM HAD JUST REPLACED THE RADIATOR AND INSPECTED THE FAN AND EVERYTHING WAS GOOD. THEN IT JUST BREAKS I CAN TAKE AND SEND PICS IF NEEDED. THANK YOU

NHTSA ODI #10992638

Mileage unknown · May 22, 2017
Air Bags

TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 DODGE CHARGER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V352000 (AIR BAGS). THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISS…

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TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 DODGE CHARGER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V352000 (AIR BAGS). THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.

NHTSA ODI #10991036

Mileage unknown · May 19, 2017
EngineSeats

ENGINE/UNKNOWN THE CAR HAS A LOUD MUFFLE SOUND WHEN DRIVING JURKING WHEN BRAKING AND OR COMING TO A COMPLETE STOP ALSO DRAGGING BEFORE SPEED. DRIVER SEAT IS CRACKED AND WON'T GO UP AS MUCH BOTH IS A SAFETY CONCERN FOR ME AND MY FAMILY.

NHTSA ODI #10990666

Official recalls

5

16V352000 · Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module

May 24, 2016

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) expanded the affected population to include 73,712 2005-2009 RAM 2500 trucks produced at the St. Louis North Assembly Plant. With this change, Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2004-2008 RAM 1500, 2005-2009 RAM 2500, 2006-2009 RAM 3500, 2007-2010 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008-2010 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2009 Dodge Durango, 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2012 Jeep Wrangler, 2008-2012 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2012 Chrysler 300, 2006-2012 Dodge Charger, 2005-2011 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in AL, CA, FL, GA, HI, LA, MS, SC, TX, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Chrysler is also recalling 2004-2008 RAM 1500, 2005-2009 RAM 2500, 2006-2009 RAM 3500, 2007-2009 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008-2009 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2009 Dodge Durango, 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2009 Jeep Wrangler, 2008-2009 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2009 Chrysler 300, 2006-2009 Dodge Charger, 2005-2009 Dodge Dakota and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in AZ, AR, DE, Washington D.C., IL, IN, KS, KY, MD, MO, NE, NV, NJ, NM, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, VA, and WV, or "Zone B." Lastly, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Chrysler is recalling certain 2005-2008 RAM 2500, 2006-2008 RAM 3500, 2007-2008 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2008 Dodge Durango, 2007-2008 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2008 Jeep Wrangler, 2008 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2008 Chrysler 300, 2006-2008 Dodge Charger, 2005-2008 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2008 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles originally sold, or registered, in AK, CO, CT, ID, IA, ME, MA, MI, MN, MT, NH, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, and WY.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. These inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the recall repair is complete. Chrysler will notify the Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and RAM owners. Mitsubishi owners will be notified by their company. Dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on March 27, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S43. Note: This recall supersedes recall 14V-7700.

15V313000 · Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module

May 26, 2015

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2005-2009 Dodge Ram 2500, 2004-2008 Dodge Ram 1500 and Durango, 2006-2009 Dodge Ram 3500, 2008-2010 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500, 2007-2008 Chrysler Aspen, 2005-2010 Chrysler 300, 300C, 300S, and SRT8, 2006-2010 Dodge Charger, 2005-2008 Magnum, 2005-2011 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the recall repair is complete. Chrysler will notify the affected Chrysler and Dodge owners and Mitsubishi will notify the affected Raider owners. Dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began for Chrylser on June 8, 2015. The recall for Mitsubishi started on June 24, 2015. Chrysler and Dodge owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Mitsubishi owners may call 1-888-648-7820. Chrysler's number for this recall is R25. Note: This recall supersedes recall 14V817 in its entirety. Vehicles that have had their driver side frontal air bag replaced previously need to have their air bag replaced under this recall as well.

14V567000 · Electrical System:ignition

Sep 17, 2014

Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2008 Chrysler 300 vehicles manufactured May 31, 2007, to May 12, 2008, Dodge Magnum vehicles manufactured May 23, 2007, to May 12, 2008, Dodge Charger vehicles manufactured May 24, 2007, to May 12, 2008, Jeep Commander vehicles manufactured April 3, 2007, to May 12, 2008, and Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured March 21, 2007, to May 12, 2008. In the affected vehicles, the ignition key (FOBIK) may not return to the "ON" position after being rotated to the "START" position, instead sticking between the two positions. Potentially, while the vehicle is being driven, the ignition may inadvertently move through the "RUN" position to the "ACCESSORY" or "OFF" ignition position, turning off the engine.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: If the ignition stays between "START" and "ON" positions it could cause loss of certain electrical functions. If the ignition key inadvertently moves into the "OFF" or "ACCESSORY" position, the engine will turn off, which will then depower various key safety systems including but not limited to air bags, power steering, and power braking. Loss of functionality of these systems may increase the risk of crash and/or increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch and key FOBs, free of charge. The recall began August 19, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is P57.

08V583000 · Power Train:automatic Transmission:lever And Linkage:column Shift

Nov 6, 2008

CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 20,283 MY 2006-2009 CHARGER AND MAGNUM VEHICLES BUILT WITH THE POLICE PACKAGE AND EQUIPPED WITH A COLUMN SHIFTER. THE GEARSHIFT CABLE MAY BECOME DISENGAGED FROM THE STEERING COLUMN MOUNTING BRACKET AND CAUSE AN INCORRECT TRANSMISSION GEARSHIFT POSITION DISPLAY.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: THIS COULD ALLOW THE VEHICLE TO MOVE IN AN UNEXPECTED DIRECTION STARTLING THE DRIVER, AND CAUSE A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL ADD A REDUNDANT LOCKING MECHANISM TO THE GEARSHIFT CABLE AT THE MOUNTING BRACKET TO ENSURE PROPER RETENTION AND SHIFT LINKAGE FUNCTION. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 10, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

08V295000 · Power Train:axle Hubs

Jul 2, 2008

CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 5,509 MY 2008 300, DODGE MAGNUM, AND CHARGER VEHICLES. THE TORQUE RETENTION CRIMP FEATURE WAS MISSED DURING THE MANUFACTURE OF ONE LOT OF REAR AXLE HUB NUTS. THIS COULD CAUSE THE NUTS TO LOOSEN AND ALLOW THE HALFSHAFT TO DISENGAGE FROM THE WHEEL HUB.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: THIS COULD CAUSE THE VEHICLE TO LOSE POWER AND RESULT IN A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE REAR AXLE HUB NUTS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 21, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗

NHTSA investigations

2

EA21002 · Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture

Opened Sep 17, 2021 · No close date supplied

Status: open (inferred from source dates) · Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module; Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module

From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=EA21002 -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module

From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=EA21002 -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module

From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=EA21002 -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.

PE08052 · Prndl Misalignment

Opened Sep 2, 2008 · Closed Nov 10, 2008

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Power Train:automatic Transmission:lever And Linkage:column Shift

IN A NOVEMBER 5, 2008 LETTER, CHRYSLER SUBMITTED A DEFECT INFORMATION REPORT DESCRIBING A DEFECT CONDITION THAT COULD RESULT IN PRNDL MISALIGNMENT (I.E., INCORRECT GEAR INDICATION) IN APPROXIMATELY 20,300 MODEL YEAR (MY) 2006 THROUGH 2009 DODGE CHARGER AND MAGNUM POLICE VEHICLES BUILT FROM MAY 17, 2005 THROUGH OCTOBER 21, 2008 (NHTSA RECALL NO. 08V-583, CHRYSLER RECALL H37).ACCORDING TO CHRYSLER, THE GEARSHIFT CABLE MAY BECOME DISENGAGED FROM THE STEERING COLUMN MOUNTING BRACKET AND CAUSE AN INCORRECT TRANSMISSION GEARSHIFT POSITION DISPLAY.THIS COULD ALLOW THE VEHICLE TO MOVE INADVERTENTLY AND CAUSE A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.CHRYSLER DEALERS WILL REMEDY THE DEFECT CONDITION BY INSTALLING A REDUNDANT LOCKING MECHANISM TO THE GEARSHIFT CABLE AND THE MOUNTING BRACKET TO ENSURE PROPER RETENTION AND SHIFT LINKAGE FUNCTION. CHRYSLER USES A UNIQUE COLUMN SHIFTER IN THESE POLICE VEHICLES.AFTER PE08-052 WAS OPENED, CHRYSLER INSPECTED A MY 2009 POLICE VEHICLE AND NOTED THAT THOUGH THE GEARSHIFT CABLE APPEARED FULLY SEATED INTO THE STEERING COLUMN MOUNTING BRACKET, THE CABLE RETENTION FEATURE (LOCKING PIN) WAS NOT FULLY SEATED.CHRYSLER SUBSEQUENTLY DETERMINED THAT IF THE RETENTION FEATURE IS NOT FULLY SEATED, THE CABLE MAY DISENGAGE FROM THE MOUNTING BRACKET, RESULTING IN THE SHIFT LINKAGE SYSTEM NOT FUNCTIONING TO DESIGN INTENT WITH THE POTENTIAL FOR INCORRECT GEAR POSITION INDICATION VIA THE PRNDL DISPLAY.CHYSLER'S INSPECTION OF 59 MY 2009 DODGE CHARGER AND MAGNUM POLICE VEHICLES IN SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER FOUND 30 WHERE THE GEARSHIFT CABLE WAS NOT FULLY ENGAGED TO THE MOUNTING BRACKET.THERE ARE NO REPORTED CRASHES OR INJURIES RELATED TO THE DEFECT CONDITION TO DATE. THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.