FCA recalls 1.2M SUVs, minivans

DETROIT — Fiat Chrysler Automobiles is recalling more than 1.2 million SUVs and minivans because pieces on the steering wheels could become projectiles if the driver-side air bags deploy.

The recall affects 2007-11 Dodge Nitros and 2008-10 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans. The bulk are in the United States.

The company, in a news release, said it plans to replace the air bag covers on the steering wheels.

FCA said it’s aware of 14 potentially related injuries involving drivers. Injuries included cuts to their legs and head, and there are no known fatalities, according to FCA spokesman Eric Mayne.

“An FCA investigation discovered these vehicles are equipped with certain clips, no longer in use, that may — over time — loosen and disengage. Should these things happen, and there is a driver-side air bag deployment, the clips and/or plastic emblems they are meant to secure, may act as projectiles,” the release said.

FCA said it would mail notices to registered vehicle owners in August, and customers are urged to follow the instructions.

“In the interim, FCA strongly advises against tampering with the emblems, which are located in the center of the vehicles’ steering wheels,” the release said.

Customers with questions or concerns can call 800853-1403.

FCA noted that the air bags themselves were not supplied by Takata, which was at the center of the largest recall in automotive history with hundreds of people injured, dozens dead and tens of millions of vehicles under recall. In the Takata case, “long-term exposure to high heat and humidity” could cause the air bags to explode when deployed, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.