Breaking News: Dodge Hornet and Alfa Romeo Tonale Plug-In Hybrids Recalled for Fire Risk
Dodge Hornet and Alfa Romeo Tonale Recalled
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued a recall for newly released Alfa Romeo Tonales and Dodge Hornets equipped with the PHEV drivetrain due to a potential fire risk. Owners are advised to park these vehicles outside and away from other cars and structures as loose connections in both the high and low-voltage electrical systems could lead to a fire, even with the ignition turned off.
Loose Nuts and Connectors
The recall is due to potentially loose connections on the 12-volt battery positive cable nuts and high voltage connectors. These loose fasteners could result in sparking or excessive heat, leading to a fire hazard. The NHTSA initiated an investigation on August 23, prompting the recall which affects an estimated 2,254 Dodge Hornets and 1,875 Alfa Romeo Tonales from 2023-2024.
Addressing the Issue
Authorized Alfa Romeo and Dodge dealerships will rectify the problem by ensuring that all fasteners are securely tightened. The core of the problem stems from these nuts and bolts not being properly secured during the manufacturing process. Fortunately, no injuries or fire incidents have been reported as a result of this issue.
Resolution Process
Owners will be provided with instructions on when to bring their vehicles to a dealership for inspection and repair, starting from around October 27th. Technicians will assess the fasteners, tighten them as needed, and replace any faulty components to ensure safety.
Industry Insights
Stellantis, the parent company of these affected brands, is ranked second in recalls this year, trailing only behind Ford. Both Stellantis and Ford are emphasizing their commitment to enhancing product quality, with Stellantis notably expanding its electric vehicle portfolio.
Conclusion
The safety of our customers is paramount, and this recall serves as a precautionary measure to prevent any potential safety concerns. Owners are urged to follow the provided instructions to address this issue promptly.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Are all Alfa Romeo Tonales and Dodge Hornets affected by this recall?
No, only the 2023-2024 models equipped with the PHEV drivetrain are affected by this recall.
2. How can I know if my vehicle is impacted by this recall?
Owners of the affected models will receive notifications from the manufacturer detailing the necessary steps to address the issue.
3. Is it safe to continue driving my Alfa Romeo Tonale or Dodge Hornet until the fasteners are fixed?
As a precaution, owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from other cars and structures until the fasteners are inspected and repaired by authorized dealerships.
4. Has anyone been injured or have there been any fires related to this issue?
As of now, no injuries or fire incidents have been reported due to this loose fastener problem.
5. How can I contact the manufacturer for more information or to schedule a repair?
For further inquiries or to schedule a repair, owners can reach out to the manufacturer’s customer service or their nearest authorized dealership.
Stay updated for more information as the situation progresses.