The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced yesterday that it will be launching an investigation into sticky accelerator pedals in 2007 Dodge Caliber vehicles. So far, both Dodge and the NHTSA have confirmed that no accidents, property damage or injuries have resulted from the sticky pedal issue.
NHTSA is handling the Dodge Caliber pedal complaints
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced that they would be “reviewing” the “potential sticky accelerator pedal” issue. So far, there have been five consumer reports sent to the NHTSA about the problem. A brake override system is built into the Dodge Caliber. What this means is if a driver behind the wheel of the Dodge Caliber experiences a sticky accelerator pedal, they still have the ability to stop.
Dodge Caliber sticky pedals manufactured by CTS
CTS Corporation, a company in Indiana, manufactured the accelerator pedals in the 2007 Dodge Caliber. The company also manufactured the accelerator pedals that have been associated in numerous Toyota recall. CTS shares have risen in the last few days, despite the concern about sticky gas pedals. At this point it is still uncertain whether the faulty pedals that were installed in Dodge and Toyota vehicles were installed in other vehicles.
Investigations include Dodge Calibers
No recall has been issued on the 2007 model year Dodge Caliber. About 161,000 Dodge Calibers in the 2007 model year are slated to be included in the NHTSA investigation. According to Dodge Motor Company, the sticky gas pedal problem has been narrowed down to about 10,000 Dodge Calibers manufactured during the months of March and April of 2006. A Dodge Caliber recall may likely follow upon the launch of the investigation. The gas pedal investigation is based entirely on a mechanical problem, not an electrical or design issue.
Own a 2007 Dodge Caliber?
If you have a 2007 model year Dodge Caliber, you don’t have to wait for the NHTSA investigation to conclude. Offered straight from Chrysler Group, owner of Dodge, are feel pedal inspections. If you have had a problem with a sticky gas pedal, you should report the issue to the NHTSA. This will ensure the issue will be included in the investigation.
Sources:
CNN Money
Reuters