Deja Vu: NHTSA Opens An Investigation Into Ignition Switches On Certain Chrysler Vehicles

General Motors isn't the only automaker that is dealing with problems with the ignition switch. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has announced it is investigating the Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Grand Caravan, and Dodge Journey from the 2008 to 2010 model years due to ignition switch problems.

NHTSA says they have been receiving complaints that the key can can shift from the “run” to the “accessory” mode while the vehicle is on the move.

"While in this intermediate position, harsh roadway conditions or driver interaction with the ignition key can cause the switch to move to the ACC position which may disable the frontal air bags in a crash where deployment is warranted," NHTSA wrote in a investigation notice.

NHTSA suspects a spring in the ignition switch is the likely culprit as it may may over-travel and leave the key between the 'run' and 'accessory' positions.

Chrysler has issued a recall before back in 2011, but only for vehicles built within a ten-month period between 2009 and 2010. However, NHTSA has continued receiving complaints from people who had their vehicles serviced in the original recall. Also, owners of 2008 and 2009 vehicles have reported the same problem.

In a separate investigation, NHTSA is looking into the 525,000 Jeep Commanders from the 2006 – 2007 model years, and the Grand Cherokee from 2005 – 2006 model years due to drivers bumping the key, causing it to be knocked into the accessory position.

Chrysler says it will fully cooperate with NHTSA's investigation.

Source: Auto Guide

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.