Fiat Chrysler is recalling 805,694 cars in the U.S. for cars that can stall, set off airbags without warning, and catch on fire, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Certain 2011–2014 Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger, Challenger, and Durango models, plus the 2012–2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee, have faulty diodes within their alternators that can overheat from “cyclical loads” drawn by the electrohydraulic power steering. The alternator can then either short-circuit, smoke, or both, leading to the potential for a fire and an immediate shutdown that would disable the engine and most vehicle-control systems, including the power steering and power brakes. A total of 442,214 vehicles with the automaker’s 3.6-liter V-6 and 5.7-liter V-8 engines are affected. Dealers will replace the alternators starting in late August.