Chrysler Group Orders Voluntary Recall of 70,000 Minivans

WASHINGTON April 8, 2005; The AP reported that DaimlerChrysler AG's Chrysler Group on Friday announced a voluntary recall of about 70,000 model year 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans because of problems with a latch on the rear door.

The automaker said the power liftgate latch on a small number of vehicles may become stuck in an unopened position, preventing the latch from closing. If the latch does not close, the liftgate can open while the vehicle is being driven, Chrysler said.

Max Gates, a DaimlerChrysler spokesman, said no vehicle crashes, injuries or fatalities have been reported because of the latch issue.

The company said the installation of new liftgate control modules will prevent the problem from occurring. Gates said the company began notifying owners Tuesday, and they can have the module replaced at no cost.