NHTSA Investigates Dodge Journey for Safety Failures

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is making strides toward potentially recalling nearly one million 2009 to 2020 Dodge Journey (JC) crossovers. This move follows the tragic death of a 73-year-old woman in 2022 who was unable to escape her burning vehicle due to malfunctioning door locks and windows.

Investigation Expansion –

The NHTSA began investigating Dodge Journey models in 2009. However, the probe has now been broadened to include vehicles sold through 2020. The investigation was upgraded to an engineering analysis, revealing 19 complaints regarding inoperative door locks and windows that could trap occupants inside during emergencies. Fortunately, no additional fires, injuries, or deaths have been reported.

The Fatal Incident – 

The tragic incident that sparked the investigation occurred in December 2022. Mary Frahm, 73, died when her Dodge Journey caught fire near Madison, Wisconsin. According to a complaint, she pulled over after experiencing electrical issues, only to be unable to lower the windows or unlock the doors. Despite calling 911, the fire rapidly engulfed the crossover, leading to her death.

Manufacturer’s Response –

Stellantis (FCA US, LLC), Dodge’s parent company, expressed its condolences to Frahm’s family and affirmed its cooperation with the NHTSA investigation. The company is working closely with regulators to determine the cause of the fire and the door lock failures.

Previous Recalls and Recommendations – 

This is not the first time the Dodge Journey has faced safety issues. In 2009, then Chrysler LLC recalled around 17,000 Journeys due to a potential fire hazard from a corroded electrical connector.

Experts like Michael Brooks from the Center for Auto Safety advise drivers to manually unlock doors by pulling up the plunger on the door trim panel if they experience electrical malfunctions. They also recommend keeping a metal tool in the vehicle to shatter windows, which can be challenging due to the laminated glass used in modern cars.

Next Steps – 

The NHTSA continues to explore various potential causes for door lock malfunctions and their relation to vehicle fires. The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) will review additional information and assess the risks to motor vehicle safety before determining the necessity of a recall.

For more details, the ODI report can be accessed on the NHTSA website under identification number PE23-008.