February 7, 2014 , Auburn Hills, Mich. – Chrysler Group LLC will conduct a voluntary safety recall to install a new pedal stop in an estimated 9,655 full-size vans.
The new pedal stop resolves a condition that may allow an accelerator pedal to stick in the wide-open position if force is applied at an angle. Affected are 2014 Ram ProMaster vans.
(Note: Every Chrysler Group vehicle is equipped with a brake-throttle override system. This enables brake-pedal application to override any simultaneous accelerator input so the driver can bring the vehicle to a stop.)
Chrysler Group is unaware of any associated injuries, accidents or customer complaints. Approximately half of the affected vehicles are in dealer hands.
This issue was discovered during testing at a Chrysler Group facility, where a driver applied downward force at an angle. Chrysler Group engineers investigated and determined a 3.0-inch (75-mm) stop – which went into production four days after the incident – did not bind, even when force was applied to the accelerator pedal at an angle.
This change had been previously scheduled, stemming from Chrysler Group’s practice of continually auditing product design and performance from the perspective of its customers. The new stop represents a more robust design and improves pedal feel at wide-open throttle.
Chrysler Group shared its discovery with Fiat Group Automobiles because of the ProMaster’s similarity to the Fiat Ducato. Fiat Group related no incidents of pedal-sticking, owing to the distinctive design characteristics of the current Ducato, which launched in 2006 and is sold in more than 80 countries.
Chrysler Group will notify affected customers. All repair costs will be borne by the Company.
Customers who remain concerned may call 1-800-853-1403.