Stellantis (formerly Chrysler/FCA US LLC) has recently announced a safety recall affecting certain 2018-2021 Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 vehicles. The recall aims to address an issue with the side airbag inflatable curtain (SABIC) inflators, which may rupture and propel debris into the vehicle cabin. Owners of affected Dodge and Chrysler models should watch for recall notifications to have this critical repair completed.

What is Causing the Airbag Inflator Rupture Risk?

According to Stellantis, some SABIC inflators used in the affected Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 vehicles may have been exposed to moisture during the supplier’s manufacturing process. This moisture intrusion can potentially lead to internal corrosion and stress corrosion cracking within the inflator over time.

If an affected SABIC inflator ruptures during airbag deployment, it may cause compressed gas and fragmented metal to rapidly escape, potentially propelling debris into the vehicle’s cabin where occupants are seated.

What Are Some Warning Signs To Look Out For?

Unfortunately, there are no specific warning signs that an inflator may rupture upon side curtain airbag deployment in one of the affected vehicles. However, owners should be attentive to any airbag warning lights illuminated on the instrument cluster, which could indicate an issue with the supplemental restraint system.

Which Dodge and Chrysler Vehicles Are Affected?

The following vehicle populations are included in this Dodge and Chrysler side airbag inflator recall:

• 2018-2021 Dodge Charger (217,802 units)
• 2018-2021 Chrysler 300 (67,180 units)

In total, Stellantis estimates approximately 284,982 vehicles are potentially affected, with around 1% of those vehicles actually containing the defective inflators.

Stellantis will begin notifying dealers and owners of the recall on or around May 3, 2024. Concerned owners can also contact Stellantis at 1-800-853-1403 and reference recall number 19B for more information.

What Should I Do If My Vehicle Is Affected?

If you receive a recall notice in the mail, or believe your 2018-2021 Dodge Charger or Chrysler 300 may be included, it is strongly recommended to schedule a service appointment with your preferred Stellantis/Chrysler dealer as soon as possible.

The remedy repair will involve replacing both of the vehicle’s side curtain airbag modules free of charge. Until the repair is completed, Stellantis advises owners to not allow passengers to ride in the front or rear seats that have the affected SABIC inflators installed.

Stellantis also has a policy to reimburse owners for repair costs already incurred to address this defect prior to the recall announcement. Proof of payment for previous repairs related to this issue may be submitted to the company for confirmation and reimbursement consideration.

Have There Been Any Incidents or Injuries Reported?

As of February 21, 2024, Stellantis was aware of five customer assistance records, two warranty claims, and zero field reports potentially related to this SABIC inflator rupture issue across all markets.

Additionally, the company stated it was not aware of any accidents or injuries potentially caused by this defect condition as of the same date in late February 2024.

However, any rupture of an airbag inflator that could propel shrapnel into the vehicle cabin clearly presents a significant safety risk to vehicle occupants. Taking prompt action to address this recall will help mitigate the potential for injuries or further incidents from occurring.

Tips for Dealing with Vehicle Recalls & Defects

Here are some additional tips for Dodge, Chrysler, and all vehicle owners to keep in mind regarding recalls and potential defects:

• Sign up for NHTSA recall alerts at NHTSA.gov/Recalls using your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN to be notified of any future recalls impacting your specific vehicle.
• Regularly check your vehicle for any new warning lights or concerning symptoms and have them inspected promptly by a qualified mechanic or dealer service center.
• Keep detailed records of all repairs, maintenance, and correspondence with the dealer or manufacturer related to defects or recurring issues.
• Don’t ignore or delay having open recalls addressed, especially those involving critical safety systems like airbags, brakes, or steering.
• If dealing with a recurring issue that the manufacturer cannot remedy after multiple repair attempts, you may have recourse under your state’s lemon law to pursue a buyback or replacement vehicle.

How a Lemon Law Attorney Can Help

For vehicle owners having persistent, unresolved defect issues, even after a recall repair attempt, consulting a lemon law attorney can be extremely beneficial. Some vehicle defects like this airbag inflator rupture risk present serious potential safety hazards that should not be ignored or taken lightly.

If the manufacturer is unable to properly repair the defect after a reasonable number of chances, lemon law attorneys can assist impacted consumers in pursuing their legal rights to have the vehicle repurchased or replaced. Compensation may also be available in some cases for the downtime, rental expenses, and other associated costs caused by the defective vehicle.

The lemon law team at Consumer Action Law Group has extensive experience holding automakers accountable and ensuring their clients receive the repurchase or replacement vehicle they are owed under state lemon laws. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation if you have been dealing with recurring issues or safety defects that remain unresolved by the manufacturer.