Chrysler recalls 18,092 Fiat 500L cars due to transmission issues

The American automobile manufacturer, Chrysler Group, a unit of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles has decided to recall 18,092 units of their 2014 Fiat 500L cars in the US due to transmission issues. The company’s move is foreseen as a result of the documents posted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) which stated that the driver may not be able to shift out of park.

The automaker told the NHTSA that it is recalling 18,092 units of the 2014 Fiat 500L cars built between April 2013 and January 2014. Chrysler said in a statement that Fiat cars may lose communication between the gear shift module and transmission, which may make it difficult or impossible to get the vehicle out of park.

According to NHTSA documents, the vehicle’s transmission shift lever may have a delayed effect or no effect on selecting a gear in specific temperatures. The car will not shift out of park incase if there is no effect on the gear, and if there is a delayed effect on the same, the vehicle may move in an unintended or unexpected direction, increasing the risk of a crash.

According to the documents posted by NHTSA, as of February 20, 2014, Chrysler was unaware of any accidents or injuries related to this problem. Dealers will substitute the shifter module or update the shifter application as required absolutely free of charge. The recall is expected to commence in April this year.