2007 Dodge Caliber and Jeep Compass Recalled To Fix Sticky Accelerator Pedals

Just the Facts:

• Chrysler is recalling the 2007 Dodge Caliber and Jeep Compass in the U.S. to replace accelerator pedal assemblies that could stick.
• Defective pedal assemblies were made by Elkhart, Indiana-based CTS Corp.
• The recall is expected to begin in June.

WASHINGTON — Chrysler is recalling 25,336 of its 2007 Dodge Caliber and Jeep Compass vehicles in the U.S. to replace accelerator pedal assemblies that could stick, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

"The pivot bushings in vehicles with oversized accelerator pedal bearing pockets may become dislodged and potentially cause the accelerator pedal to bind or stick," said NHTSA in its recalls summary of the problem. "Should the pedal bind or become stuck, it can be overcome by smart brakes which override the accelerator pedal in certain conditions."

The defective pedal assemblies were made by Elkhart, Indiana-based CTS Corp., which also supplied the pedal assemblies in 2.3 million Toyota vehicles in the U.S. that were recalled in January.

"It should be noted that the accelerator pedal for the Caliber and Compass vehicles, although manufactured by the same supplier, is a completely different design and manufactured with different tooling than the pedals involved in the recent [Toyota] recall," according to other Chrysler documentation filed with NHTSA on June 3 and signed by David D. Dillon.

Chrysler says the affected vehicles were built between March 7 and May 19, 2006.

"These vehicles are equipped with an electronic throttle control system that utilizes 'smart brake' technology," said Chrysler's letter to NHTSA. "When a disagreement exists between the throttle and the brake, the brake signal causes the engine controller to reduce engine power, allowing the operator to stop the car. As a result of the presence of this technology, Chrysler Group LLC has concluded that the condition described in this report does not present an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety. Chrysler Group LLC will nonetheless conduct a voluntary safety recall to inspect the accelerator pedal assembly to determine the build date and mold cavity number of assembly and replace all potentially affected pedal assemblies."

The recall is expected to begin in June. Owners may contact Chrysler at (800) 853-1403.

Inside Line says: If you own one of the aforementioned Jeep Compass or Dodge Caliber vehicles, have it checked out ASAP with your dealer. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent