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Dodge Ram Vans and Wagons Recalled

17 February 1999

Dodge Ram Vans and Wagons Recalled

    AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Feb. 17 -- DaimlerChrysler
today announced the voluntary recall of 328,500 Dodge full-size Ram Vans and
Wagons to replace airbag electronic control modules.  The recall action
involves two groups of vehicles, covering 1998 and 1995-1997 model years.
    The first group, affecting 54,500 model year 1998 vehicles, involves the
inadvertent deployment of the airbags if a metal object strikes the control
module under certain circumstances.  The control module is located beneath the
driver's seat.  The recall was prompted by reports received during the van
conversion process.
    The second group affects 274,000 model year 1995-1997 vehicles and the
inadvertent deployment of the driver's airbag if the control module becomes
corroded.  The corrosion is caused by water running across the floor mat and
into the module.
    There have been no reports of fatalities or serious injuries and customers
are not at imminent risk.
    Owners of the 1998 model year vehicles will be notified of the recall this
week.  Owners of the 1995-1997 model year vehicles will be notified next
month.  The airbag control modules will be replaced and protective covers
installed at no charge.
    If the airbag warning light goes on before customers receive a letter,
they should visit their dealers as soon as possible.