Transport Canada identifies safety issues with four Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Canada models

Power steering problems with Dodge Journey, Chrysler 200, Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Avenger models

OTTAWA, April 20, 2016 /CNW/ - The Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, is advising the public of power steering issues with certain model vehicles from Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Canada and is seeking the public's feedback.

Transport Canada has received over 100 consumer complaints involving a failure of a power steering return hose. Following an investigation, the department determined that the loss of power steering assist, along with the potential for a vehicle fire, was a serious safety issue and has notified the manufacturer.

The following vehicle models are affected:

• 2009-2016 Dodge Journey;
• 2011-2013 Chrysler 200;
• 2007-2010 Chrysler Sebring; and
• 2007-2013 Dodge Avenger.

After reviewing feedback from Canadians on the affected vehicles models, the Minister will make a final determination on whether Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Canada has to issue a notice of safety defect to owners of these vehicles.

To protect the safety of Canadians, Transport Canada will continue to monitor this issue closely and provide updates as new information becomes available.

Quote

"Canadians deserve to know that the cars they rely on to get to work and transport their families are safe. I reserve the option of forcing a recall if corrective measures are not applied in a satisfactory manner. Manufactures should know that we have high standards for Canadian vehicles, and we expect them to live up to these standards at all times."
The Honourable Marc Garneau
Minister of Transport

Quick Facts

• Owners of these vehicles can submit their feedback to the department by April 29, 2016 at http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/motorvehiclesafety/safevehicles-defectinvestigations-1449.html.
• In 2014, legislative changes were made to the Motor Vehicle Safety Act to provide the Minister with the power to order companies to issue a Notice of Safety Defect or Non-Compliance (also known as a recall notice) to owners in order to keep Canadians informed of issues with their vehicles. Previously, only companies could decide to issue these notices.
• Canadians can find out if their vehicle has been recalled by visiting www.tc.gc.ca/recalls or by contacting their vehicle manufacturer or dealer.

Associated Links

• Preliminary determination: http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/motorvehiclesafety/safevehicles-defectinvestigations-1449.html.

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SOURCE Transport Canada

Delphine Denis, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, Ottawa, 613-991-0700; Media Relations, Transport Canada, Ottawa, 613-993-0055, [email protected]