2004-2005 Jeep Liberty Recalled Over Corrosion Fears
Chrysler is recalling over 209,000 Jeep Liberty vehicles from the 2004 and 2005 model years over concerns of corrosion in the vehicles' suspension system.
The recall, however, doesn't affect all Liberty models, only those originally sold or registered in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia -- in other words, the "salt belt" states that use salts to de-ice roadways in winter.
The recall is also limited to vehicles manufactured between July 3, 2003 and July 14, 2005.
According to a bulletin from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, those vehicles may suffer from corrosion in the rear lower control arms associated with the vehicles' rear suspension system. In extreme cases, that corrosion can lead to a fracture of the control arm. That, in turn, can result in driver losing control of the vehicle.
Chrysler says that it will send out notice of the recall by the end of April. At that time, owners will be able to take their vehicles to Jeep dealers, who will replace the rear lower control arms free of charge.
If you own one of the affected vehicles and have questions, contact Chrysler at 800-853-1403 and ask about recall #L27. Alternately, you can contact the NHTSA at 888-327-4236 and inquire about campaign #12V085000.