Chrysler Issues Jeep Recalls in Wake of NHTSA Standoff

Chrysler issues two recalls affecting about 630,000 Jeep models this week after rejecting a separate call-back request from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Admin.

This week’s recalls involve occupant-restraint systems and transmission oil cooler lines. The auto maker, however has flatly denied NHTSA’s request to call back 2.7 million Jeep Grand Cherokee and Liberty models involving potential fuel leaks that NHTSA says can cause fire after a rear-end collision.

Seatbelt pre-tensioners and side-curtain airbags may not function properly during slow-developing rollover crashes, the auto maker says. About 409,000 ’10-’12 Jeep Compass and Patriot models may be affected. The issue can be remedied with a software upgrade at no cost to customers.

In the second recall affecting ’12-’13 Jeep Wranglers, a power-steering component may rub against the line and compromise transmission function. A repair will be issued at no cost.