NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
What owners actually said
339 reports94,000 miles · Jul 29, 2010
Exterior LightingInterior Lighting
2003 DODGE DURANGO: AFTER ABOUT 15 MINUTES OF DRIVING WE HEAR CLICKING NOISES AND SEE LIGHTS (EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR) FLICKERING. STARTS WITH JUST A FEW CLICKS AND FLICKERS AND THEN BECAME WORSE THE LONGER WE DRIVE. TOOK IT TO A SHOP, THEY COULDN'T FIND A PROBLEM. HAPPENED AGAIN A WEEK LATER (VEHICLE NOT DRIVEN MUCH AT NIGHT) …
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2003 DODGE DURANGO: AFTER ABOUT 15 MINUTES OF DRIVING WE HEAR CLICKING NOISES AND SEE LIGHTS (EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR) FLICKERING. STARTS WITH JUST A FEW CLICKS AND FLICKERS AND THEN BECAME WORSE THE LONGER WE DRIVE. TOOK IT TO A SHOP, THEY COULDN'T FIND A PROBLEM. HAPPENED AGAIN A WEEK LATER (VEHICLE NOT DRIVEN MUCH AT NIGHT) AND RETURNED TO SHOP. STILL COULDN'T FIND A PROBLEM SO THEY RESEARCHED AND FOUND MULTIPLE SIMILAR COMPLAINTS REGARDING THE CENTRAL TIMING MODULE. CHECKED WITH THE DEALERSHIP, OURS NOT COVERED UNDER THE RECALL. DEALERSHIP SAID $550 TO FIX. THIS IS NOT THE FIRST (OR SECOND, THIRD, FOURTH, OR FIFTH) PROBLEM WE'VE HAVE WITH THIS VEHICLE. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10346163
92,000 miles · Jul 28, 2010
Engine And Engine Cooling
ROCKER ARM COMES OFF. RESEARCHING ON THE INTERNET THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM. HOW MANY PEOPLE DOES IT TAKE TO GET KILLED DUE TO ROCKER ARM COMING OFF AND STOPPING IN TRAFFIC? I DO NOT UNDERSTAND WHY THIS PROBLEM CONTINUES WITH NO ACTION. I NOTICED ONE OF THE QUESTIONS ON THIS WEBSITE ASK IF THERE WERE ANY INJURIES OR DEATHS. I GU…
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ROCKER ARM COMES OFF. RESEARCHING ON THE INTERNET THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM. HOW MANY PEOPLE DOES IT TAKE TO GET KILLED DUE TO ROCKER ARM COMING OFF AND STOPPING IN TRAFFIC? I DO NOT UNDERSTAND WHY THIS PROBLEM CONTINUES WITH NO ACTION. I NOTICED ONE OF THE QUESTIONS ON THIS WEBSITE ASK IF THERE WERE ANY INJURIES OR DEATHS. I GUESS A NUMBER OF THESE MUST HAPPEN BEFORE ANYTHING IS DONE. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10345993
164,476 miles · Jul 19, 2010
Electrical SystemVisibility
BLOWER MOTOR COMPLETELY STOPS WORKING DUE TO BLOWER MOTOR RESISTOR AND ATTACHED WIRING PIGTAIL COMPLETELY BURNING OUT. THIS PROBLEM HAS OCCURRED EVERY 12 -18 MONTHS OVER THE LAST FIVE YEARS OF OWNERSHIP. THE FAILURE REQUIRES THE REPLACEMENT OF A RESISTOR(PART # 5061575AA) AND WIRING HARNESS CONNECTOR KIT.(PART # 5017124AC) IT IS…
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BLOWER MOTOR COMPLETELY STOPS WORKING DUE TO BLOWER MOTOR RESISTOR AND ATTACHED WIRING PIGTAIL COMPLETELY BURNING OUT. THIS PROBLEM HAS OCCURRED EVERY 12 -18 MONTHS OVER THE LAST FIVE YEARS OF OWNERSHIP. THE FAILURE REQUIRES THE REPLACEMENT OF A RESISTOR(PART # 5061575AA) AND WIRING HARNESS CONNECTOR KIT.(PART # 5017124AC) IT IS MY UNDERSTANDING FROM THE MECHANICS WHO HAVE MADE THESE REPAIRS THAT ALL OR PART OF THE PARTS REQUIRING REPLACEMENT HAVE OVERHEATED TO THE EXTENT OF MELTING AND/OR BURNING PRIOR TO FAILURE. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10343934
77,777 miles · Jul 8, 2010
Engine And Engine Cooling
I OWN A 2003 DODGE DURANGO, AND HAVE ALWAYS PROVIDED PROPER MAINTENANCE FOR THE VEHICLE - OIL CHANGES, TUNE-UP ETC. ON JULY 4, 2010 I STARTED THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED A TAPPING SOUND AND THE OIL LIGHT STARTED FLASHING. I HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO AN AUTO REPAIR FACILITY, ONLY TO FIND OUT THAT THERE WAS A MUDDY SLUDGE BUILD UP IN…
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I OWN A 2003 DODGE DURANGO, AND HAVE ALWAYS PROVIDED PROPER MAINTENANCE FOR THE VEHICLE - OIL CHANGES, TUNE-UP ETC. ON JULY 4, 2010 I STARTED THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED A TAPPING SOUND AND THE OIL LIGHT STARTED FLASHING. I HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO AN AUTO REPAIR FACILITY, ONLY TO FIND OUT THAT THERE WAS A MUDDY SLUDGE BUILD UP IN THE OIL PAN WHICH WAS CLOGGING THE OIL PICK-UP SCREEN. THE VEHICLE ONLY HAS 70K ORIGINAL MILES ON IT AND HAS HAD REGULAR OIL CHANGES AND I DON'T BELIEVE THAT SHOULD HAVE HAPPENED. UPON CHECKING VARIOUS, I NOTICED THAT THERE WAS A PATTERN WITH SLUDGE BUILD UP IN THIS PARTICULAR VEHICLE. I BELIEVE THAT THE AUTO MANUFACTURER SHOULD RECALL THESE VEHICLES AND RECOGNIZE AND RECTIFY THE PROBLEM. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10341996
119,560 miles · May 8, 2010
Engine And Engine Cooling
I HAVE AN 03 DODGE DURANGO AND EVER SO OFTEN WHEN I MAKE A STOP THE RPM GO UP AND DOWN AND MAKES IT WANT TO SHUT OFF AND THERE'S TIMES WHERE IT ACTUALLY CUT OFF AND SOME DAYS WHEN I WANT TO PULL OFF IT WONT MOVE UNLESS I SIT THERE AND LET IT WARM FOR AT LEAST 2-5 MINUTES LUGS HAVE STARTED TO POP OFF HAD A DIAGNOSTIC AND THEY FOU…
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I HAVE AN 03 DODGE DURANGO AND EVER SO OFTEN WHEN I MAKE A STOP THE RPM GO UP AND DOWN AND MAKES IT WANT TO SHUT OFF AND THERE'S TIMES WHERE IT ACTUALLY CUT OFF AND SOME DAYS WHEN I WANT TO PULL OFF IT WONT MOVE UNLESS I SIT THERE AND LET IT WARM FOR AT LEAST 2-5 MINUTES LUGS HAVE STARTED TO POP OFF HAD A DIAGNOSTIC AND THEY FOUND NOTHING. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10329388
86,500 miles · Apr 27, 2010
Electrical SystemExterior LightingLatches/locks/linkages
1. THE HEADLIGHTS, PARKLIGHTS, FOGLIGHTS, INTERIOR LIGHTS, DOOR LOCK SWITCH, 4WD, KEY FOB, OR INTERMEDIATE WIPERS WOULD NOT WORK AT ALL. LUCKILY THE VEHICLE WAS AT A LOW SPEED AND NOT IN MOTION ON A HIGHWAY WHEN THE INCIDENT TOOK PLACE. 2. IT ONLY OCCURRED ONE TIME, BUT WHAT IF I HAD BEEN DRIVING ON THE ROADWAY. 3. THE CENTRAL…
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1. THE HEADLIGHTS, PARKLIGHTS, FOGLIGHTS, INTERIOR LIGHTS, DOOR LOCK SWITCH, 4WD, KEY FOB, OR INTERMEDIATE WIPERS WOULD NOT WORK AT ALL. LUCKILY THE VEHICLE WAS AT A LOW SPEED AND NOT IN MOTION ON A HIGHWAY WHEN THE INCIDENT TOOK PLACE. 2. IT ONLY OCCURRED ONE TIME, BUT WHAT IF I HAD BEEN DRIVING ON THE ROADWAY. 3. THE CENTRAL TIMER MODULE (CTM) WAS REPLACED. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10327785
35,000 miles · Apr 24, 2010
Seats
INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6) OWNERS OF 1999-2003 DODGE DURANGO OWNERS ARE REPORTING A PROBLEM WITH THE FRONT POWER SEATS. MANY OWNERS EXPERIENCE A "ROCKING BACK AND FORTH" OF THE SEATS WHEN ACCELERATING AND STOPPING. MY VEHICLE HAS THIS PROBLEM. IT TURNS OUT THE…
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INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6) OWNERS OF 1999-2003 DODGE DURANGO OWNERS ARE REPORTING A PROBLEM WITH THE FRONT POWER SEATS. MANY OWNERS EXPERIENCE A "ROCKING BACK AND FORTH" OF THE SEATS WHEN ACCELERATING AND STOPPING. MY VEHICLE HAS THIS PROBLEM. IT TURNS OUT THERE IS A "WASHER" THAT KEEPS THE ROD THAT CONNECTS TO THE POWER SEAT MOTOR UNIT UNDER THE SEAT. THERE IS A HEX SHAPED WASHER THAT HOLDS THE ROD IN PLACE. THIS HEX SHAPED WASHER SNAPS AND BREAKS OFF. THE RESULT IS A WHIP-LASH TYPE JERK WHEN COMING TO AN ABRUPT STOP. THE DEALERSHIPS ARE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AS IT IS COMMON AND SUGGEST THAT THE COST OF REPAIR CAN BE ANYWHERE FROM $500 TO $700 FOR PART AND LABOR. THE FIX SUGGESTED BY DEALERSHIPS IS TO REPLACE THE MOTOR, THOUGH IT IS THE HEX NUT HOLDING THE ROD FROM THE MOTOR THAT IS THE CULPRIT. THE FIX SIMPLY REQUIRES A NEW HEX WASHER WHICH IS CONNECTED TO THE SEAT BRACKET ALONG WITH NEW BOLTS. THIS IS POTENTIALLY A VERY DANGEROUS DEFECT IN THAT IN AN ACCIDENT OR EMERGENCY BRAKING THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER IS WHIPPED FORWARD AND BACK WHICH CAN CAUSE INJURY TO THE NECK AND BACK. ATTACHED ARE LINKS TO A SITE WHICH DESCRIBES A FIX TO THE PROBLEM AND ANOTHER LINK, WHICH IS ONE OF MANY ON THE WEB, WHICH ILLUSTRATES CONCERNS AND COMPLAINTS ON THIS PROBLEM. HTTP://WWW.CARSURVEY.ORG/REVIEWS/DODGE/DURANGO/R33777/COMMENTS/ HTTP://WWW.CRAIGCENTRAL.COM/DURANGO/SEAT.ASP [XXX] *TR
NHTSA ODI #10327303
102,000 miles · Apr 24, 2010
Engine And Engine Cooling
WHILE DRIVING MY 2003 DODGE DURANGO IN WHICH I AM FINANCING THE VEHICLE SINCE 2007 APRIL, WITHOUT WARNING MY OIL LIGHT CAME ON AND THE CAR STARTED TO SHAKE AND THE ENGINE WAS BANGING REALLY BAD. THE ENGINE DIED ON ME., I WAS STUCK ON A BRIDGE WITH 6 CHILDREN 100 MILES FROM HOME. THE VEHICLE WAS WELL MAINTAINED AND HOW COULD THIS…
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WHILE DRIVING MY 2003 DODGE DURANGO IN WHICH I AM FINANCING THE VEHICLE SINCE 2007 APRIL, WITHOUT WARNING MY OIL LIGHT CAME ON AND THE CAR STARTED TO SHAKE AND THE ENGINE WAS BANGING REALLY BAD. THE ENGINE DIED ON ME., I WAS STUCK ON A BRIDGE WITH 6 CHILDREN 100 MILES FROM HOME. THE VEHICLE WAS WELL MAINTAINED AND HOW COULD THIS HAPPEN. NOW I AM STUCK PAYING FOR A TRUCK THAT I CAN NOT USE. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10327298
102,000 miles · Apr 23, 2010
Engine And Engine Cooling
I HAVE CONTACTED THE DODGE DEALER AND THEY SAID THAT THE ONLY FOR MY VEHICLE IS THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR. I HAVE THE SAME ISSUES AS THE ONLY RECALLS AND DEFECTS AS WELL. THE UNINTENDED ACCELERATION THAT WILL CAUSE A CRASH AND THE IDLING OF THE ENGINE WHILE IN PARK AND THE LIST GOES ON AND ON. FEAR FOR THE SAFETY OF ME AND MY …
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I HAVE CONTACTED THE DODGE DEALER AND THEY SAID THAT THE ONLY FOR MY VEHICLE IS THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR. I HAVE THE SAME ISSUES AS THE ONLY RECALLS AND DEFECTS AS WELL. THE UNINTENDED ACCELERATION THAT WILL CAUSE A CRASH AND THE IDLING OF THE ENGINE WHILE IN PARK AND THE LIST GOES ON AND ON. FEAR FOR THE SAFETY OF ME AND MY KIDS WHAT AM I SUPPOSE TO DO. I AM LEASING THIS VEHICLE I FEEL LIKE I'M PAYING FOR A LEMON. I CAN'T ENJOY LIFE WITH MY KIDS THEY ARE THE MAIN REASON I GOT A TRUCK IN THE FIRST PLACE. HELP PLEASE I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10327170
100,000 miles · Apr 22, 2010
Engine And Engine CoolingEquipmentFuel System, Gasoline
I HAVE TO STOP FAR AWAY FROM A VEHICLE FEAR OF RUNNING IN THE BACK OF THEIR VEHICLE. IT DOESN'T SEEM TO WANT TO STOP SOMETIME, THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING FOR AWHILE NOW ALOT RECENTLY. IT CUTS OFF ON ME IF I GET IN THE HIGHWAY SO EMBARRASSING AND WHEN THAT HAPPENS I ONLY CAN TAKE OFF SLOW. WHICH CAUSES ME TO EXIT THE HIGHWAY AND NOT…
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I HAVE TO STOP FAR AWAY FROM A VEHICLE FEAR OF RUNNING IN THE BACK OF THEIR VEHICLE. IT DOESN'T SEEM TO WANT TO STOP SOMETIME, THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING FOR AWHILE NOW ALOT RECENTLY. IT CUTS OFF ON ME IF I GET IN THE HIGHWAY SO EMBARRASSING AND WHEN THAT HAPPENS I ONLY CAN TAKE OFF SLOW. WHICH CAUSES ME TO EXIT THE HIGHWAY AND NOT GET BACK ON. I HAD BOUGHT A CAR VACUUM AND IT STATED SMOKING ON ME, I WAS USING THE SOCKET IN THE ARM REST. I HAVE ALOT OF PROBLEMS WHEN I USE THE A/C OR HEAT IT CUTS OFF ON ME AND IT STALLS TO TAKE OFF,IT'S SCARY FOR ME AND MY KIDS. IT RAMS BY IT'S SELF AND IT ACTS AS IF IT'S GONE CUT OFF AND MOST OF THE TIME IT DO. IT MAKE THIS PUTTING SOUNDS WHEN IT'S GOING TO CUT OFF OR EVEN WHEN IT STOPS ON ME. THE DEALER REPLACE THE CADILLAC CONVERTER AND MY OXYGEN SENSORS. I ALSO GOT A TUNE UP AND TWO OF THE FUEL INJECTORS REPLACE NEW PARTS, THAT I PAID FOR MYSELF. IT FEELS LIKE MY FRONT SUSPENSION IS MESSED UP I HAD MY BRAKES CHECKED AND THEY ARE NOT BAD, BUT YOU CAN FEEL IT WHEN YOU PRESS ON THE BRAKES SOMETHING IS NOT RIGHT. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10326938
Official recalls
4Sep 7, 2006
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FRONT BENCH SEATS ONLY, IF FLUID IS SPILLED FROM THE FLOOR MOUNTED CUP HOLDER, AN UNUSED CONSOLE POWER OUTLET CONNECTOR LOCATED UNDER THE SEAT MAY BECOME CONTAMINATED.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: THIS MAY ALLOW DEVELOPMENT OF A HIGH RESISTIVE SHORT CIRCUIT IN THE CONNECTOR, WHICH COULD EVENTUALLY LEAD TO A FIRE.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE CONSOLE WIRING CONNECTOR FOR CORROSION, CLEAN AS REQUIRED, AND INSTALL A CAP TO PREVENT ADDITIONAL FLUID FROM CONTAMINATING THE CONNECTOR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 30, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
Dec 21, 2004
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES AND PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE (4X4), IF MOISTURE LEAKS INTO THE FRONT SUSPENSION UPPER BALL JOINT, EVACUATION OF THE LUBRICANT AND CORROSION OF THE JOINT MAY CAUSE THE JOINT TO WEAR OVER AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME. THIS COULD CAUSE A CLUNKING NOISE IN THE FRONT SUSPENSION, WHICH MAY NOT ALWAYS BE HEARD BY THE VEHICLE OCCUPANTS.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: EXCESSIVE WEAR IN THE UPPER BALL JOINT MAY ALLOW IT TO SEPARATE, WHICH COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION UPPER BALL JOINTS. THIS SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BEGAN ON DECEMBER 21, 2004. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
May 5, 2004
ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MODULE MOTOR MAY BE SUSCEPTIBLE TO WATER INTRUSION THAT COULD CAUSE INTERNAL CORROSION AND RESULT IN PARTIAL OR COMPLETE LOSS OF FRONT WINDSHIELD WIPING CAPABILITY.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: DRIVER VISIBILITY COULD BE REDUCED, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT WINDSHIELD WIPER MODULE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON JULY 12, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
Dec 2, 2002
ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS, THE CENTRAL TIMER MODULE (CTM) HAS AN IMPROPERLY SIZED CIRCUIT BOARD TRACE THAT COULD POTENTIALLY CAUSE THE RIGHT HEADLAMP LOW BEAM TO BECOME INOPERATIVE.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: IF THE LIGHTS FAIL, A VISIBILITY PROBLEM COULD OCCUR, INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CTM. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN DECEMBER 23, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER 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
5EA06011 · Vehicle UNDER-SEAT Fire
Opened Jun 19, 2006 · Closed Sep 22, 2006
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Electrical System; Electrical System:wiring
DAIMLERCHRYLSER CORPORATION (DCC) WILL RECALL 35,103 MY 2001-2003 DODGE DURANGO VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FRONT BENCH SEATS (RECALL # 06V339, SEE DEFECT REPORT FOR DETAILS).THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH EITHER FRONT BUCKET SEATS OR A 40-20-40 SPLIT FRONT BENCH SEAT.VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FRONT BENCH SEAT CONTAIN AN UNCAPPED, UNUSED CONNECTOR LOCATED UNDER THE FRONT EDGE OF THE SEAT.THE CONNECTOR PROVIDES POWER TO THE CENTER CONSOLE POWER OUTLET FOR VEHICLES WITH BUCKET SEATS, BUT IT IS UNUSED IN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH BENCH SEATS.THE CONNECTOR IS LOCATED REARWARD OF THE CUP HOLDER ON THE TUNNEL FOR VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE BENCH SEAT.THIS CONNECTOR CONTAINS A FUSED B+ CIRCUIT WIRE (THAT IS CONTINUOUSLY POWERED WITH THE KEY OFF) AND A GROUND WIRE. DCC DETERMINED THAT IF LIQUID IS SPILLED FROM THE CUP HOLDER ONTO THE TUNNEL, THE UNCAPPED CONNECTOR MAY BECOME CONTAMINATED.THIS CONTAMINATION MAY ALLOW DEVELOPMENT OF A HIGH RESISTANCE SHORT CIRCUIT IN THE CONNECTOR, CAUSING LOCALIZED HEATING, WHICH COULD EVENTUALLY LEAD TO A FIRE.DCC WILL INSPECT THE UNCAPPED CONNECTOR FOR CORROSION, CLEAN AS REQUIRED, AND INSTALL A CAP TO PREVENT LIQUID CONTAMINATION.ALL OF THE REPORTED UNDER-SEAT FIRES WERE ON SUBJECT VEHICLES WITH A 40-20-40 BENCH SEAT.THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Electrical System
DAIMLERCHRYLSER CORPORATION (DCC) WILL RECALL 35,103 MY 2001-2003 DODGE DURANGO VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FRONT BENCH SEATS (RECALL # 06V339, SEE DEFECT REPORT FOR DETAILS).THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH EITHER FRONT BUCKET SEATS OR A 40-20-40 SPLIT FRONT BENCH SEAT.VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FRONT BENCH SEAT CONTAIN AN UNCAPPED, UNUSED CONNECTOR LOCATED UNDER THE FRONT EDGE OF THE SEAT.THE CONNECTOR PROVIDES POWER TO THE CENTER CONSOLE POWER OUTLET FOR VEHICLES WITH BUCKET SEATS, BUT IT IS UNUSED IN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH BENCH SEATS.THE CONNECTOR IS LOCATED REARWARD OF THE CUP HOLDER ON THE TUNNEL FOR VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE BENCH SEAT.THIS CONNECTOR CONTAINS A FUSED B+ CIRCUIT WIRE (THAT IS CONTINUOUSLY POWERED WITH THE KEY OFF) AND A GROUND WIRE. DCC DETERMINED THAT IF LIQUID IS SPILLED FROM THE CUP HOLDER ONTO THE TUNNEL, THE UNCAPPED CONNECTOR MAY BECOME CONTAMINATED.THIS CONTAMINATION MAY ALLOW DEVELOPMENT OF A HIGH RESISTANCE SHORT CIRCUIT IN THE CONNECTOR, CAUSING LOCALIZED HEATING, WHICH COULD EVENTUALLY LEAD TO A FIRE.DCC WILL INSPECT THE UNCAPPED CONNECTOR FOR CORROSION, CLEAN AS REQUIRED, AND INSTALL A CAP TO PREVENT LIQUID CONTAMINATION.ALL OF THE REPORTED UNDER-SEAT FIRES WERE ON SUBJECT VEHICLES WITH A 40-20-40 BENCH SEAT.THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.
Electrical System:wiring
DAIMLERCHRYLSER CORPORATION (DCC) WILL RECALL 35,103 MY 2001-2003 DODGE DURANGO VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FRONT BENCH SEATS (RECALL # 06V339, SEE DEFECT REPORT FOR DETAILS).THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH EITHER FRONT BUCKET SEATS OR A 40-20-40 SPLIT FRONT BENCH SEAT.VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FRONT BENCH SEAT CONTAIN AN UNCAPPED, UNUSED CONNECTOR LOCATED UNDER THE FRONT EDGE OF THE SEAT.THE CONNECTOR PROVIDES POWER TO THE CENTER CONSOLE POWER OUTLET FOR VEHICLES WITH BUCKET SEATS, BUT IT IS UNUSED IN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH BENCH SEATS.THE CONNECTOR IS LOCATED REARWARD OF THE CUP HOLDER ON THE TUNNEL FOR VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE BENCH SEAT.THIS CONNECTOR CONTAINS A FUSED B+ CIRCUIT WIRE (THAT IS CONTINUOUSLY POWERED WITH THE KEY OFF) AND A GROUND WIRE. DCC DETERMINED THAT IF LIQUID IS SPILLED FROM THE CUP HOLDER ONTO THE TUNNEL, THE UNCAPPED CONNECTOR MAY BECOME CONTAMINATED.THIS CONTAMINATION MAY ALLOW DEVELOPMENT OF A HIGH RESISTANCE SHORT CIRCUIT IN THE CONNECTOR, CAUSING LOCALIZED HEATING, WHICH COULD EVENTUALLY LEAD TO A FIRE.DCC WILL INSPECT THE UNCAPPED CONNECTOR FOR CORROSION, CLEAN AS REQUIRED, AND INSTALL A CAP TO PREVENT LIQUID CONTAMINATION.ALL OF THE REPORTED UNDER-SEAT FIRES WERE ON SUBJECT VEHICLES WITH A 40-20-40 BENCH SEAT.THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.
PE06008 · Fire Under The Driver's Seat
Opened Feb 2, 2006 · Closed Jun 19, 2006
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Electrical System:wiring:interior/under Dash; Seats
ODI IS AWARE OF 10 REPORTS ALLEGING THAT A FIRE ORIGINATES UNDERNEATH THE DRIVER'S SEAT.SIX OF THEFIRES OCCURRED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED WITH THE IGNITION SWITCH TURNED OFF (KEY NOT IN THE IGNITION).THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH MANUAL SEATS. THIS INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS, (EA06-011), TO ALLOW FURTHER INVESTIGATION OF THE ISSUE.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Electrical System:wiring:interior/under Dash
ODI IS AWARE OF 10 REPORTS ALLEGING THAT A FIRE ORIGINATES UNDERNEATH THE DRIVER'S SEAT.SIX OF THEFIRES OCCURRED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED WITH THE IGNITION SWITCH TURNED OFF (KEY NOT IN THE IGNITION).THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH MANUAL SEATS. THIS INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS, (EA06-011), TO ALLOW FURTHER INVESTIGATION OF THE ISSUE.
Seats
ODI IS AWARE OF 10 REPORTS ALLEGING THAT A FIRE ORIGINATES UNDERNEATH THE DRIVER'S SEAT.SIX OF THEFIRES OCCURRED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED WITH THE IGNITION SWITCH TURNED OFF (KEY NOT IN THE IGNITION).THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH MANUAL SEATS. THIS INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS, (EA06-011), TO ALLOW FURTHER INVESTIGATION OF THE ISSUE.
EA03023 · Upper Ball Joint Separation
Opened Nov 19, 2003 · Closed Feb 11, 2005
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Suspension; Suspension:front; Suspension:front:control Arm; Suspension:front:control Arm:upper Arm; Suspension:front:control Arm:upper Ball Joint
DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION (DCC) IS RECALLING THE TARGET POPULATION OF APPROXIMATELY 600,000 MY 2000 THROUGH 2003 DURANGO AND DAKOTA VEHICLES WITH FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE TO REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION UPPER BALL JOINTS WITH REDESIGNED PARTS THAT DO NOT HAVE THE JOINT INTEGRITY CONCERNS AND HAVE SUBSTANTIALLY IMPROVED JOINT RETENTION CAPACITY (NHTSA RECALL NO. 04V-596).THOUGH DCC DOES NOT ADMIT TO A SAFETY-DEFECT IN THE SUBJECT COMPONENTS, ODI BELIEVES THAT THE FACTS IN THIS INVESTIGATION SHOW OTHERWISE.BECAUSE OF THE LOW RATES OF SEPARATION INCIDENTS IN THE REMAINING SUBJECT VEHICLES, A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED IN THOSE POPULATIONS AND FURTHER USE OF AGENCY RESOURCES DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE WARRANTED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT NO SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT EXISTS IN THOSE VEHICLES.THE AGENCY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES.FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, SEE THE ATTACHED CLOSING REPORT.
Additional source detail variants (5)
Suspension
DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION (DCC) IS RECALLING THE TARGET POPULATION OF APPROXIMATELY 600,000 MY 2000 THROUGH 2003 DURANGO AND DAKOTA VEHICLES WITH FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE TO REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION UPPER BALL JOINTS WITH REDESIGNED PARTS THAT DO NOT HAVE THE JOINT INTEGRITY CONCERNS AND HAVE SUBSTANTIALLY IMPROVED JOINT RETENTION CAPACITY (NHTSA RECALL NO. 04V-596).THOUGH DCC DOES NOT ADMIT TO A SAFETY-DEFECT IN THE SUBJECT COMPONENTS, ODI BELIEVES THAT THE FACTS IN THIS INVESTIGATION SHOW OTHERWISE.BECAUSE OF THE LOW RATES OF SEPARATION INCIDENTS IN THE REMAINING SUBJECT VEHICLES, A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED IN THOSE POPULATIONS AND FURTHER USE OF AGENCY RESOURCES DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE WARRANTED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT NO SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT EXISTS IN THOSE VEHICLES.THE AGENCY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES.FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, SEE THE ATTACHED CLOSING REPORT.
Suspension:front
DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION (DCC) IS RECALLING THE TARGET POPULATION OF APPROXIMATELY 600,000 MY 2000 THROUGH 2003 DURANGO AND DAKOTA VEHICLES WITH FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE TO REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION UPPER BALL JOINTS WITH REDESIGNED PARTS THAT DO NOT HAVE THE JOINT INTEGRITY CONCERNS AND HAVE SUBSTANTIALLY IMPROVED JOINT RETENTION CAPACITY (NHTSA RECALL NO. 04V-596).THOUGH DCC DOES NOT ADMIT TO A SAFETY-DEFECT IN THE SUBJECT COMPONENTS, ODI BELIEVES THAT THE FACTS IN THIS INVESTIGATION SHOW OTHERWISE.BECAUSE OF THE LOW RATES OF SEPARATION INCIDENTS IN THE REMAINING SUBJECT VEHICLES, A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED IN THOSE POPULATIONS AND FURTHER USE OF AGENCY RESOURCES DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE WARRANTED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT NO SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT EXISTS IN THOSE VEHICLES.THE AGENCY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES.FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, SEE THE ATTACHED CLOSING REPORT.
Suspension:front:control Arm
DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION (DCC) IS RECALLING THE TARGET POPULATION OF APPROXIMATELY 600,000 MY 2000 THROUGH 2003 DURANGO AND DAKOTA VEHICLES WITH FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE TO REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION UPPER BALL JOINTS WITH REDESIGNED PARTS THAT DO NOT HAVE THE JOINT INTEGRITY CONCERNS AND HAVE SUBSTANTIALLY IMPROVED JOINT RETENTION CAPACITY (NHTSA RECALL NO. 04V-596).THOUGH DCC DOES NOT ADMIT TO A SAFETY-DEFECT IN THE SUBJECT COMPONENTS, ODI BELIEVES THAT THE FACTS IN THIS INVESTIGATION SHOW OTHERWISE.BECAUSE OF THE LOW RATES OF SEPARATION INCIDENTS IN THE REMAINING SUBJECT VEHICLES, A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED IN THOSE POPULATIONS AND FURTHER USE OF AGENCY RESOURCES DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE WARRANTED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT NO SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT EXISTS IN THOSE VEHICLES.THE AGENCY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES.FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, SEE THE ATTACHED CLOSING REPORT.
Suspension:front:control Arm:upper Arm
DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION (DCC) IS RECALLING THE TARGET POPULATION OF APPROXIMATELY 600,000 MY 2000 THROUGH 2003 DURANGO AND DAKOTA VEHICLES WITH FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE TO REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION UPPER BALL JOINTS WITH REDESIGNED PARTS THAT DO NOT HAVE THE JOINT INTEGRITY CONCERNS AND HAVE SUBSTANTIALLY IMPROVED JOINT RETENTION CAPACITY (NHTSA RECALL NO. 04V-596).THOUGH DCC DOES NOT ADMIT TO A SAFETY-DEFECT IN THE SUBJECT COMPONENTS, ODI BELIEVES THAT THE FACTS IN THIS INVESTIGATION SHOW OTHERWISE.BECAUSE OF THE LOW RATES OF SEPARATION INCIDENTS IN THE REMAINING SUBJECT VEHICLES, A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED IN THOSE POPULATIONS AND FURTHER USE OF AGENCY RESOURCES DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE WARRANTED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT NO SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT EXISTS IN THOSE VEHICLES.THE AGENCY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES.FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, SEE THE ATTACHED CLOSING REPORT.
Suspension:front:control Arm:upper Ball Joint
DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION (DCC) IS RECALLING THE TARGET POPULATION OF APPROXIMATELY 600,000 MY 2000 THROUGH 2003 DURANGO AND DAKOTA VEHICLES WITH FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE TO REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION UPPER BALL JOINTS WITH REDESIGNED PARTS THAT DO NOT HAVE THE JOINT INTEGRITY CONCERNS AND HAVE SUBSTANTIALLY IMPROVED JOINT RETENTION CAPACITY (NHTSA RECALL NO. 04V-596).THOUGH DCC DOES NOT ADMIT TO A SAFETY-DEFECT IN THE SUBJECT COMPONENTS, ODI BELIEVES THAT THE FACTS IN THIS INVESTIGATION SHOW OTHERWISE.BECAUSE OF THE LOW RATES OF SEPARATION INCIDENTS IN THE REMAINING SUBJECT VEHICLES, A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED IN THOSE POPULATIONS AND FURTHER USE OF AGENCY RESOURCES DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE WARRANTED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT NO SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT EXISTS IN THOSE VEHICLES.THE AGENCY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES.FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, SEE THE ATTACHED CLOSING REPORT.
PE03032 · Front Susp. Upper Ball Joint Failure
Opened Jul 16, 2003 · Closed Nov 19, 2003
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Suspension:front; Suspension:front:control Arm; Suspension:front:control Arm:upper Arm; Suspension:front:control Arm:upper Ball Joint
IN JULY 2003, ODI OPENED PE03-032 BASED ON 4 CONSUMER COMPLAINTS ALLEGING SEPARATION OF AN UPPER BALL JOINT.COMPLAINTS ALLEGED AN UNEXPECTED COLLAPSE IN THE FRONT END AND IN SOME OCCASIONS THE BALL JOINT SEPARATION IS ALLEGED TO HAVE RESULTED IN THE WHEEL, BRAKE ROTOR, AND STEERING KNUCKLE SEPARATING FROM THE VEHICLE.SINCE OPENING THE PE, ODI HAS RECEIVED 23 ADDITIONAL COMPLAINTS RELATED TO BALL JOINT SEPARATION. DAIMLERCHRYSLER HAS IDENTIFIED A WEAROUT CONCERN IN THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS THAT IS BELIEVED TO OCCUR AFTER WATER INTRUSION EVACUATES THE JOINT LUBRICANT.DAIMLERCHRYSLER DOES NOT BELIEVE THE CONDITION POSES AN UNREASONABLE RISK TO SAFETY BECAUSE THE SUSPENSION DESIGN IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCES THE LIKELIHOOD OF JOINT SEPARATION.OVER 99 PERCENT OF THE FAILURES ARE RELATED TO WORN BALL JOINTS (E.G., NOISE COMPLAINTS).DAIMLERCHRYSLER REVISED THE REPAIR PROCEDURE IN AUGUST 2003 TO ALLOW THE UPPER BALL JOINTS TO BE SERVICED SEPARATELY FROM THE UPPER CONTROL ARM AND REDUCE REPAIR COSTS. DAIMLERCHRYSLER CHANGED THE SUPPLIER OF THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS FROM TRW TO NEW CASTLE MACHINING & FORGE FOR MY 2000 VEHICLES.MY 2000 DURANGO VEHICLES ACCOUNT FOR 25 OF THE 37 SEPARATION COMPLAINTS.THE UPPER BALL JOINT WAS REDESIGNED IN MY 2003.THIS INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS TO FURTHER ASSESS THE ALLEGED DEFECT IN MY 2000-02 DURANGO VEHICLES.
Additional source detail variants (4)
Suspension:front
IN JULY 2003, ODI OPENED PE03-032 BASED ON 4 CONSUMER COMPLAINTS ALLEGING SEPARATION OF AN UPPER BALL JOINT.COMPLAINTS ALLEGED AN UNEXPECTED COLLAPSE IN THE FRONT END AND IN SOME OCCASIONS THE BALL JOINT SEPARATION IS ALLEGED TO HAVE RESULTED IN THE WHEEL, BRAKE ROTOR, AND STEERING KNUCKLE SEPARATING FROM THE VEHICLE.SINCE OPENING THE PE, ODI HAS RECEIVED 23 ADDITIONAL COMPLAINTS RELATED TO BALL JOINT SEPARATION. DAIMLERCHRYSLER HAS IDENTIFIED A WEAROUT CONCERN IN THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS THAT IS BELIEVED TO OCCUR AFTER WATER INTRUSION EVACUATES THE JOINT LUBRICANT.DAIMLERCHRYSLER DOES NOT BELIEVE THE CONDITION POSES AN UNREASONABLE RISK TO SAFETY BECAUSE THE SUSPENSION DESIGN IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCES THE LIKELIHOOD OF JOINT SEPARATION.OVER 99 PERCENT OF THE FAILURES ARE RELATED TO WORN BALL JOINTS (E.G., NOISE COMPLAINTS).DAIMLERCHRYSLER REVISED THE REPAIR PROCEDURE IN AUGUST 2003 TO ALLOW THE UPPER BALL JOINTS TO BE SERVICED SEPARATELY FROM THE UPPER CONTROL ARM AND REDUCE REPAIR COSTS. DAIMLERCHRYSLER CHANGED THE SUPPLIER OF THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS FROM TRW TO NEW CASTLE MACHINING & FORGE FOR MY 2000 VEHICLES.MY 2000 DURANGO VEHICLES ACCOUNT FOR 25 OF THE 37 SEPARATION COMPLAINTS.THE UPPER BALL JOINT WAS REDESIGNED IN MY 2003.THIS INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS TO FURTHER ASSESS THE ALLEGED DEFECT IN MY 2000-02 DURANGO VEHICLES.
Suspension:front:control Arm
IN JULY 2003, ODI OPENED PE03-032 BASED ON 4 CONSUMER COMPLAINTS ALLEGING SEPARATION OF AN UPPER BALL JOINT.COMPLAINTS ALLEGED AN UNEXPECTED COLLAPSE IN THE FRONT END AND IN SOME OCCASIONS THE BALL JOINT SEPARATION IS ALLEGED TO HAVE RESULTED IN THE WHEEL, BRAKE ROTOR, AND STEERING KNUCKLE SEPARATING FROM THE VEHICLE.SINCE OPENING THE PE, ODI HAS RECEIVED 23 ADDITIONAL COMPLAINTS RELATED TO BALL JOINT SEPARATION. DAIMLERCHRYSLER HAS IDENTIFIED A WEAROUT CONCERN IN THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS THAT IS BELIEVED TO OCCUR AFTER WATER INTRUSION EVACUATES THE JOINT LUBRICANT.DAIMLERCHRYSLER DOES NOT BELIEVE THE CONDITION POSES AN UNREASONABLE RISK TO SAFETY BECAUSE THE SUSPENSION DESIGN IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCES THE LIKELIHOOD OF JOINT SEPARATION.OVER 99 PERCENT OF THE FAILURES ARE RELATED TO WORN BALL JOINTS (E.G., NOISE COMPLAINTS).DAIMLERCHRYSLER REVISED THE REPAIR PROCEDURE IN AUGUST 2003 TO ALLOW THE UPPER BALL JOINTS TO BE SERVICED SEPARATELY FROM THE UPPER CONTROL ARM AND REDUCE REPAIR COSTS. DAIMLERCHRYSLER CHANGED THE SUPPLIER OF THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS FROM TRW TO NEW CASTLE MACHINING & FORGE FOR MY 2000 VEHICLES.MY 2000 DURANGO VEHICLES ACCOUNT FOR 25 OF THE 37 SEPARATION COMPLAINTS.THE UPPER BALL JOINT WAS REDESIGNED IN MY 2003.THIS INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS TO FURTHER ASSESS THE ALLEGED DEFECT IN MY 2000-02 DURANGO VEHICLES.
Suspension:front:control Arm:upper Arm
IN JULY 2003, ODI OPENED PE03-032 BASED ON 4 CONSUMER COMPLAINTS ALLEGING SEPARATION OF AN UPPER BALL JOINT.COMPLAINTS ALLEGED AN UNEXPECTED COLLAPSE IN THE FRONT END AND IN SOME OCCASIONS THE BALL JOINT SEPARATION IS ALLEGED TO HAVE RESULTED IN THE WHEEL, BRAKE ROTOR, AND STEERING KNUCKLE SEPARATING FROM THE VEHICLE.SINCE OPENING THE PE, ODI HAS RECEIVED 23 ADDITIONAL COMPLAINTS RELATED TO BALL JOINT SEPARATION. DAIMLERCHRYSLER HAS IDENTIFIED A WEAROUT CONCERN IN THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS THAT IS BELIEVED TO OCCUR AFTER WATER INTRUSION EVACUATES THE JOINT LUBRICANT.DAIMLERCHRYSLER DOES NOT BELIEVE THE CONDITION POSES AN UNREASONABLE RISK TO SAFETY BECAUSE THE SUSPENSION DESIGN IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCES THE LIKELIHOOD OF JOINT SEPARATION.OVER 99 PERCENT OF THE FAILURES ARE RELATED TO WORN BALL JOINTS (E.G., NOISE COMPLAINTS).DAIMLERCHRYSLER REVISED THE REPAIR PROCEDURE IN AUGUST 2003 TO ALLOW THE UPPER BALL JOINTS TO BE SERVICED SEPARATELY FROM THE UPPER CONTROL ARM AND REDUCE REPAIR COSTS. DAIMLERCHRYSLER CHANGED THE SUPPLIER OF THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS FROM TRW TO NEW CASTLE MACHINING & FORGE FOR MY 2000 VEHICLES.MY 2000 DURANGO VEHICLES ACCOUNT FOR 25 OF THE 37 SEPARATION COMPLAINTS.THE UPPER BALL JOINT WAS REDESIGNED IN MY 2003.THIS INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS TO FURTHER ASSESS THE ALLEGED DEFECT IN MY 2000-02 DURANGO VEHICLES.
Suspension:front:control Arm:upper Ball Joint
IN JULY 2003, ODI OPENED PE03-032 BASED ON 4 CONSUMER COMPLAINTS ALLEGING SEPARATION OF AN UPPER BALL JOINT.COMPLAINTS ALLEGED AN UNEXPECTED COLLAPSE IN THE FRONT END AND IN SOME OCCASIONS THE BALL JOINT SEPARATION IS ALLEGED TO HAVE RESULTED IN THE WHEEL, BRAKE ROTOR, AND STEERING KNUCKLE SEPARATING FROM THE VEHICLE.SINCE OPENING THE PE, ODI HAS RECEIVED 23 ADDITIONAL COMPLAINTS RELATED TO BALL JOINT SEPARATION. DAIMLERCHRYSLER HAS IDENTIFIED A WEAROUT CONCERN IN THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS THAT IS BELIEVED TO OCCUR AFTER WATER INTRUSION EVACUATES THE JOINT LUBRICANT.DAIMLERCHRYSLER DOES NOT BELIEVE THE CONDITION POSES AN UNREASONABLE RISK TO SAFETY BECAUSE THE SUSPENSION DESIGN IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCES THE LIKELIHOOD OF JOINT SEPARATION.OVER 99 PERCENT OF THE FAILURES ARE RELATED TO WORN BALL JOINTS (E.G., NOISE COMPLAINTS).DAIMLERCHRYSLER REVISED THE REPAIR PROCEDURE IN AUGUST 2003 TO ALLOW THE UPPER BALL JOINTS TO BE SERVICED SEPARATELY FROM THE UPPER CONTROL ARM AND REDUCE REPAIR COSTS. DAIMLERCHRYSLER CHANGED THE SUPPLIER OF THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS FROM TRW TO NEW CASTLE MACHINING & FORGE FOR MY 2000 VEHICLES.MY 2000 DURANGO VEHICLES ACCOUNT FOR 25 OF THE 37 SEPARATION COMPLAINTS.THE UPPER BALL JOINT WAS REDESIGNED IN MY 2003.THIS INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS TO FURTHER ASSESS THE ALLEGED DEFECT IN MY 2000-02 DURANGO VEHICLES.
PE02082 · Safety Belt Cinching Latch Plate
Opened Nov 6, 2002 · Closed Apr 23, 2003
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Seat Belts
THERE ARE NO INJURIES OR FATALITIES ASSOCIATED WITH THIS ALLEGED DEFECT.WHILE CONDUCTING THIS INVESTIGATION, ODI FOUND THAT THE SUBJECT CINCHES MEET THE LOAD BEARING REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD 208, AND THAT MANY OF THE REPORTED FAILURES WERE DUE TO INCORRECT CHILD SAFETY SEAT INSTALLATIONS. ADDITIONALLY, THE REPORT RATE IS LOW (1.60/100K).THE INFORMATION AVAILABLE FAILS TO ESTABLISH THE EXISTENCE OF A DEFECT TREND AT THIS TIME.FURTHER ALLOCATION OF AGENCY RESOURCES TO THIS ISSUE IS UNWARRANTED AND THE PRELIMINARY EVALUATION IS BEING CLOSED.
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