Jeep and Dodge Recall Close to 300,000

Auburn Hills, Michigan - Chrysler has issued a recall on an estimated 296,550 vehicles to reprogram an electronic control unit.

The fix will eliminate any chance of what the company called "a momentary delay in braking when coasting up a hill".

Chrysler spokesman Max Gates said the problem was supplier-related. While the problem could only occur under limited and infrequent circumstances, "a customer who experiences any delay in braking should take the vehicle to a certified dealer for inspection".

Chrysler was aware of one such accident that caused no injuries.

The potentially affected vehicles are 157 000 2006/07 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Commander SUV's, 90 000 2007 Jeep Wranglers and 49 000 2007 Dodge Nitro SUV's. - AFP

Revealed: Jeep J8 MPV

Chrysler LLC today unveiled the Jeep J8 multipurpose vehicle at the 2007 Defence Systems & Equipment International (DSEi) military trade show, making the legendary vehicle available for reenlistment in active military service. “Jeep vehicles made their original debut in 1941 for military duty, and have built their reputation with more than 65 years as the world’s benchmark for off-road capability and versatility for civilian and military vehicles,” said Thomas Hausch, Vice President – International Sales, Chrysler LLC.

“The new Jeep J8 marks the brand’s return to vehicle production for military and civilian government use – the same capability that makes the Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited famous also makes the Jeep J8 a truly multipurpose vehicle.”

With the all-new 2007 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited as the starting point, Jeep engineers increased its capability and versatility. The frame of the Wrangler Unlimited is reinforced for increased ruggedness and to allow greater payloads – up to a maximum of 1,339 kg (2,952 lbs.). Axles, brakes and suspension components are engineered specifically for more demanding military and civilian government use, including utilising a leaf-spring suspension system in the rear. The J8’s Command-Trac® four-wheel drive system allows maximum versatility and performance in both on- and off-road conditions.

The Jeep J8 is powered by a 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine that produces 118 kW (158 hp) and 400 Nm (295 lb.-ft.) of torque, providing towing capability of up to 3,500 kg (7,716 lbs.). The engine is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The J8 also features a unique air-intake system with special filtration and a hood-mounted snorkel that enables the J8 to wade in water up to 762 mm (30 in.) deep and tackle sandstorm conditions for up to five hours.

Available as a two-door with an extended pickup bed for personnel or equipment transport, or a four-door multipurpose vehicle, it may be produced with numerous vehicle-body and seating configurations in either right-hand- or left-hand-drive.

While not designed for front-line combat operations, the Jeep J8 is fully armour capable and excels in a variety of duties ranging from command vehicle to troop/cargo carrier, ambulance, communications vehicle and other duties – also making it suitable for civilian government applications. Heavy-duty bumpers with tow eyes allow the Jeep J8 to be easily transported by aeroplane or helicopter.

The Jeep J8 will be produced in a Chrysler LLC joint-venture facility in Cairo, Egypt, and will be available in spring 2008.

Official Chrysler Reaction to the New Chrysler

From Chrysler Group press releases...

The New Chrysler today issued the following statement from Tom LaSorda, President and CEO, regarding the closing of a transaction for the company: "With the transaction complete, we can now focus all of our efforts on our day-to-day business by moving faster, quickly reacting to customer needs and bringing out industry- leading products," said LaSorda. "We have support from two solid partners - Cerberus and Daimler - which will give us the strong financial backing and the resources we need to fuel the long-term success of this great company."

The New Chrysler will celebrate its "First Day" on Monday, August 6, at its Auburn Hills, Michigan world headquarters building and its facilities around the world. The company will continue to roll out the launch of The New Chrysler throughout the year. The Pentastar logo will also return as the company's corporate mark in an updated form, and will be unveiled Monday.

2008 Jeep Liberty Pricing Lower Then Outgoing Model

Chrysler's price-slashing continues, with the latest recipient being the redesigned 2008 Jeep Liberty, which arrives bearing a price tag that starts at $20,990 for a Sport 4x2 model and $22,600 for a Sport 4x4 including a $660 destination fee -- $1270 and $1170, respectively, less than the outgoing model. Limited models start at $25,175 and $26,785 -- $720 and $620 lower than before.

The new Liberty receives a redesigned independent suspension up front and a new five-link suspension in the rear, standard side curtain airbags, and an available full-length "Sky Slider" open-canvas roof that provides a taste of the open-top experience offered by the Wrangler. Sky Slider is offered on both Sport and Limited trims as a $1,200 option. Available only on Limited 4x4 models is the Selec-Trac II full-time four-wheel drive system that can be used on dry pavement as well as low-traction surfaces.

Powertrain choices remain unchanged, with the 210 horsepower, 235 lb-ft of torque 3.7-liter V-6 and its four-speed automatic soldiering on as the only engine/transmission combo offered.

2007 Jeep Wrangler Recalled

Chrysler said it was recalling more than 80,000 2007 Jeep Wrangler and Dodge Nitro sport-utility vehicles to correct a problem that could make the engine stall, The Associated Press reported.

Chrysler said the recalled vehicles might experience a power interruption, which could lead to a short engine stall (although the engine would immediately restart if the vehicle was in motion).

To affect a fix, dealers will reprogram a power module to remove the potential for a brief interruption of electrical power to the instrument panel and the engine.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened an investigation into the Wrangler last May after receiving reports of engine stalling. Chrysler said the agency has received about 180 complaints of engine stalling in Wrangler and Nitro vehicles.

There has been one accident linked to the issue, the company said, but no injuries have been reported. Chrysler will notify owners about the recall later this week and the work will be completed at no cost to consumers, the AP said.

New Jeep Ad Campaign: Have Fun Out There

Chrysler Group announced a new tagline for the Jeep brand - here's the press release:

The Jeep® brand announced today it is launching a new brand advertising campaign on July 1 that will take advantage of the brand's expanded seven-vehicle lineup, its 66-year heritage of 4x4 off-road capability and the inherent joy of driving Jeep vehicles. "Have fun out there. Jeep®" is the new brand advertising tag line.

The new ad campaign is designed to strengthen the already-legendary image of the brand and bring more buyers into the Jeep owner base, one of the most loyal in the industry. While the campaign's primary message is that driving the brand's sport-utility vehicles provides a unique-to-Jeep fun, it will also emphasize that, with an expanded lineup of seven Jeep vehicles, "Now there's a Jeep vehicle for you," said John Plecha, Director - Jeep Marketing & Global Communications.

Chrysler Sales Up 4% In May .... (only because of Jeep)

From Forbes:

DaimlerChrysler AG said Friday its U.S.-based Chrysler division's May U.S. sales rose on a jump in demand for Jeep brand models.

Overall, DaimlerChrysler sold 221,164 vehicles, up 3.9 percent from 212,882 in May 2006.

Adjusted for one additional selling day this May compared with last, DaimlerChrysler sales fell 0.1 percent.

Chrysler Group sales rose 4.3 percent to 199,393 from 191,261 in May 2006.

Sales of the division's Jeep brand vehicles increased 20 percent, as demand for its Wrangler model more than doubled to 12,332 vehicles. Sales of the brand's new Compass and Patriot models also offset lower demand for its Liberty, Grand Cherokee and Commander models.

To read the rest of the article, click here

Jeep Commander Recall Possible

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened a preliminary investigation that could lead to the recall or 136,444 Jeep Commanders because the engine stalls unexpectedly.

Federal safety regulators have received 26 vehicle owner complaints “alleging incidents of engine stall while driving in a model year 2006 through 2007 Jeep Commander,” according to NHTSA documents.

Some of the consumers complaining to NHTSA told of repeated stalls at times with “simultaneous loss of some or all lighting systems including headlamps.”

Two stalls resulted in accidents, according to NHTSA.

DaimlerChrylser told the agency that engineers at the automaker have formed a task force to investigate the stalling problem with Jeep commanders.

NHTSA has opened its own engineering analysis to “assess the frequency, scope and potential safety consequences of the alleged defect.”

Chrysler Employees to Purchase Chrysler Group?

As reported by Detroit News, 50,000 Chrysler employees are trying to buy 70% of the ownership in the Chrysler Group.

"The head of the United Auto Workers said the union hasn't ruled out making an offer to buy the Chrysler Group, but experts are mixed on whether employee ownership makes sense for Chrysler.

In an interview Friday with WJR Radio in Detroit, UAW President Ron Gettelfinger said the union has reviewed a "very sketchy" proposal made earlier this month by a group of about 25 Chrysler employees in Toledo to acquire a 70 percent stake in Chrysler through an employee stock ownership plan, or ESOP, in exchange for health care concessions.

"Ever hear the statement 'all options are on the table?' " Gettelfinger responded when asked whether the UAW would bid for Chrysler. "We haven't ruled anything out."

2008 Jeep Liberty Press Release

2008 Jeep® Liberty – All-new From the Ground Up

* All-new 2008 Jeep® Liberty remains true to its legendary 4x4 heritage

* Improved on-road ride and handling with new independent front and new five-link rear suspension systems

* All-new Jeep classic exterior styling, functional interior space and upgraded amenities designed to broaden its appeal to consumers

* Industry-exclusive Sky Slider™ full-open canvas roof

The Jeep® Liberty has remained a leader in the mid-size sport-utility vehicle (SUV) market since its introduction in 2002. The popular mid-size SUV gives off-road enthusiasts and owners their own sense of personal freedom and capability that only defines the Jeep brand.

All-new from the ground up for 2008, the Jeep Liberty remains true to its legendary 4x4 heritage by offering two Jeep Trail Rated® four-wheel-drive systems – Command-Trac® and the all-new Selec-Trac® II. On-road ride and handling have been improved and refined with the new independent front suspension, new five-link rear suspension and rack-and-pinion steering.

The Liberty's exterior has been redesigned, and takes on a more rugged, classic Jeep look that is sure to captivate the attention of current Jeep Liberty owners and broaden its consumer appeal. Inside, cargo and storage space increases and seat comfort improves. Making its world debut is the new Sky Slider™ full-open canvas roof, an industry-exclusive; giving the Jeep Liberty that "Only in a Jeep" open-air experience. Remote start, rain-sensing wipers, memory seats and mirrors, and express up/down windows are added to the vehicle's ever-growing list of available features and options. There are two models – Jeep Liberty Sport and Jeep Liberty Limited.

"The all-new 2008 Jeep Liberty stands out from the competition by offering customers classic Jeep design, two four-wheel-drive systems, refined on-road ride and handling, cargo and utility, as well as features that are not typically found on vehicles in the mid-size SUV segment," said George Murphy, Senior Vice President – Global Marketing, Chrysler Group.

The all-new Jeep Liberty is designed to appeal to customers who are looking for Jeep 4x4 capability as well as comfort and convenience. It is targeted to young couples and new families, as well as professional, young single men and women between 30 and 40 years of age, balanced male to female. Jeep Liberty owners will balance day-to-day responsibilities with their passion for adventure as well as the outdoors. They are athletic, and pursue activities that combine their various interests with their active lifestyle. The Jeep Liberty will be available at Jeep dealerships starting in the third quarter of 2007.

Engineering
The all-new 2008 Jeep Liberty offers a balance of off-road capability and on-road refinement.

* All-new independent front suspension, all-new five-link rear suspension, and a power rack-and-pinion steering system contribute to the all-new 2008 Jeep Liberty's blend of on-road ride comfort and nimble, confidence-inspiring handling

* Two four-wheel-drive systems – all-new Selec-Trac II, full-time four-wheel-drive system and Command-Trac, a part-time four-wheel-drive system – both are Jeep Trail Rated

* The 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 engine provides the 2008 Jeep Liberty with competitive peak power and torque while providing smooth, quiet operation and proven durability. It produces 210 hp (157 kW) @ 5,200 rpm and 235 lb.-ft. (319 N•m) of torque @ 4,000 rpm. Fuel economy has been improved and now achieves an estimated *16 city (18 mpg using 2007 EPA standards), and *22 mpg on the highway (23 mpg based on 2007 EPA standards).

* Two transmissions are offered on the Jeep Liberty in the United States: a six-speed manual transmission and a four-speed automatic transmission

* The 2008 Jeep Liberty was designed and engineered under the Chrysler Development System (CDS), the comprehensive, coordinated and disciplined product creation process that improves quality and speed-to-market while reducing costs and encouraging practical innovation in new products

Design
In its first redesign since its introduction, the all-new 2008 Jeep Liberty embraces its roots by taking on a more rugged, classic Jeep design that is guaranteed to strengthen its draw to current owners and broaden its appeal to a new audience.

* Jeep classic exterior styling and functional interior space are designed to broaden its consumer appeal

* Industry-exclusive Sky Slider full-open canvas roof brings "Only in a Jeep" open-air experience to mid-size SUV market

* Cargo capacity increases and front and rear passengers will notice the improved seat comfort along with added space


Safety and Security
The 2008 Jeep Liberty has a full range of active and passive safety systems. Among the vehicle's standard equipment are Electronic Stability Program, Electronic Roll Mitigation, All-speed Traction Control, Brake Assist, advanced anti-lock brakes, rain sensing wipers, Tire Pressure Monitoring, and side-curtain air bags.

Technology
The 2008 Jeep Liberty offers the MyGIG Multimedia Infotainment System™ a completely integrated audio, navigation, entertainment and hands-free communication system. MyGIG allows customers to use touch screen or voice commands to control features, and includes a 20-gigabyte hard drive where music and photos can be stored. The system also includes a voice-memo recorder feature. MyGIG supports real-time traffic information, available through SIRIUS Satellite Radio, and can provide an alternate drive route based on traffic conditions. All of these functions can be controlled through voice commands and by utilizing a touch screen.

SIRIUS Satellite Radio provides U.S. customers with 130 channels, including 100 percent commercial-free music, sports, news, talk, entertainment, traffic and weather. And the UConnect® hands-free communication system uses Bluetooth® technology to provide wireless communication between the customer's compatible mobile phone and the vehicle's on-board receiver.

Manufacturing
The 2008 Jeep Liberty will be built using Chrysler Group's modern production process, called the Flexible Manufacturing Strategy (FMS). FMS allows multiple products to be produced at one plant in a time-efficient manner that are a higher quality for lower cost. At the core of the new manufacturing process is the heavy use of robots at the Toledo (Ohio) North Assembly Plant.

Jeep Sued Over "Choose Your Own Adventure" Ad Campaign

As if we didn't see this coming... A Vermont publishing company has filed a lawsuit of Chrysler Jeeps new "Choose Your Own Adventure" ad campaign. Here are the details:

A children's book publisher filed suit against DaimlerChrysler AG, saying its new ad campaign for the Jeep Patriot infringes on the trademark of "Choose Your Own Adventure," a popular series of books.

The Jeep ads use the tagline: "Choose Your Adventure." A spokesman for Chrysler said he was shocked the suit was filed, and that the parties had been negotiating in hopes of reaching a settlement.

snip . . .

"What we feel is that Jeep is trying to piggyback on the really positive associations of adventure and opportunity and choice that the former fans -- the original fan base -- had associated with 'Choose Your Own Adventure,'" said Shannon Gilligan, president of Waitsfield-based Chooseco. "They're trying to imbue the Jeep Patriot with that."

Jason Vines, a spokesman for Auburn Hills, Mich.-based Chrysler Group, maker of the Jeep, Dodge and Chrysler brands, said the company -- which was served with a cease-and-desist request March 16 -- had offered to link the publisher's Web site to the Jeep site.

To read the entire article, click here

Chrysler First To Offer Sirius Backseat TV

SIRIUS Backseat TV™ will be offered exclusively in 2008 Model Year Chrysler Group vehicles Debuts on all-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans, including the Jeep Commander and the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Three channels of live, family TV programming from Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network delivered directly to the vehicle Builds on Chrysler Group's innovative technology leadership, which includes MyGIG™ Multimedia Infotainment System, Swivel 'n Go™ seat system, Chill Zone™ cooled beverage storage bin, heated and cooled cup holder, articulating liftgate speakers, LOAD 'N GO™ slide-out cargo load floor and removable/rechargeable cargo light.

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE:

New York, Mar 29, 2007 - Chrysler Group and SIRIUS Satellite Radio announced today that Chrysler Group will be the exclusive auto manufacturer to offer SIRIUS Backseat TV™ in its vehicle lineup in the 2008 model year.
For the first time, live TV programming from the most trusted brands in family entertainment-Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network-will be available through SIRIUS Backseat TV in select 2008 model Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge vehicles, beginning with the all-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans.

"Chrysler Group is committed to offering innovative technologies that are right for our customers," said Frank Klegon, Executive Vice President – Product Development, Chrysler Group. "SIRIUS Backseat TV makes its world debut in Chrysler Group's all-new 2008 minivans, combining with innovative features that include a dual DVD system that can play different media at the same time, MyGIG™ Multimedia Infotainment System, and our unique Swivel 'n Go™ seat system, offering more options for families on the go. No one else in the marketplace offers their customers this combination of innovative technology."

SIRIUS Backseat TV features three channels of respected children's TV featuring many of the most well-known kids' programming, including Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network. Rear-seat passengers will be able to watch shows such as Nickelodeon's "SpongeBob SquarePants," Disney Channel's "Cory in the House," and Cartoon Network's "Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends."

SIRIUS Backseat TV will also be available on the 2008 Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, Dodge Magnum, Jeep Commander and Jeep Grand Cherokee.

SIRIUS Backseat TV operates via an in-vehicle satellite video receiver and two small roof-mounted antennas. Programming is displayed on the vehicle's second- and/or third-row video screens, and channel name, program title and rating will be broadcast and displayed on the screen(s). For added flexibility, rear-seat passengers can enjoy SIRIUS Backseat TV while front-seat occupants listen to SIRIUS Satellite Radio. The system can be operated from either the rear-seat entertainment unit or the radio head unit. In addition, when the vehicle is in Park, programming can be displayed on the MyGIG screen for front-seat viewing.

SIRIUS Backseat TV is available for a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $470, which includes the first year of service, when packaged with Chrysler Group's Rear Seat Entertainment System and SIRIUS Satellite Radio. After the first year, SIRIUS Backseat TV is available for $7 per month when packaged with SIRIUS Satellite Radio ($12.95 per month).

"This innovative entertainment offering from SIRIUS adds to the 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan's long list of leading amenities for today's busy families," said George Murphy, Senior Vice President – Marketing. "Along with a dual DVD system that plays different media at the same time, pinpoint LED lighting to read by, a table to play games or finish homework, a voice-activated navigation system with real-time traffic, power-sliding doors and liftgate, YES Essentials® cloth seats, Swivel 'n Go seating and our exclusive Stow 'n Go seating and storage system, Chrysler Group's minivans offer something every member of the family will enjoy during their journey."

Wanna JK? Get On The List!

The DCX crew didn't anticipate the strong reception that the Jeep Unlimited would be granted when it was released earlier this year. The four-door Wrangler's popularity has put Chrysler in the enviable position of not being able to keep supply up to meet the demand, especially when said off-roader is equipped with the FreedomTop and MyGIG entertainment system.

According to a statement from the Product Communications rep, D.W. Bodene, "We're building new Wranglers as fast as we can, but it's a vehicle whose popularity exceeded our expectations." He goes on to point out that Wrangler sales were up in February by 63 percent and by 124 percent in January.

We're not quite sure what the rest of you are seeing on Jeep lots, but the few Wrangler Unlimiteds we've spied haven't been hanging around for long and the dealers are tacking on a markup accordingly.

[Source: Straightline]

Chrysler Recalls More Than 489,000 Vehicles

DETROIT - Chrysler Group said on Friday it would recall over 489,000 vehicles, including recent models of the Jeep Liberty, Dodge Durango and its all-new Dodge Avenger sedan.

How does this effect the Jeep Liberty? Well, here's the scoop.

In a third recall action, the automaker said it would service up to 149,605 Jeep Liberty vehicles because of a problem with the blower motor in the air-conditioning system. Chrysler said that in some cases the motors could fail, particularly in hot weather.

That recall affects 2006 and 2007 model-year Jeep Liberty vehicles, Chrysler said.

Read more here

Chrysler Recalls 50,000 Vehicles

AutoWeek is reporting that Chrysler Group is recalling more than 50,000 2007 cars and SUVs due to faulty anti-lock brake software. Included in the recall are: 2007 Jeep Wrangler, Compass, Patriot, Commander, Liberty and Grand Cherokee.

The specific vehicles were built in late 2006, so not every 2007 model needs to be serviced. The problem “could result in a loss of vehicle control and cause a crash without warning” according to a company warning.

This follows a recall last week of more than 86,000 2006 Dodge Ram pickups for faulty front-wheel bearings. The problem would present itself with noise and vibration and, if ignored, could cause the wheel to simply fall off, possibly causing a loss of vehicle control and a crash.

You can call Chrysler at (800) 853-1403 regarding either recall.

Private equity groups eye Chrysler

We all know Chrysler is having some problems these days... It seems as if some privately owned companies have their eye on the ill-fated auto maker. Here's a snip:

At least four private equity groups have been in preliminary talks with DaimlerChrysler about buying Chrysler, and could emerge as bidders in the auction for the German carmaker’s US subsidiary.

According to people familiar with the matter, Apollo Management, Blackstone, Carlyle, and Cerberus Capital Management - as well as several European firms - were contacted about their potential interest in acquiring Chrysler before last week’s announcement by DaimlerChrysler that “all options are on the table” for the unit. Those discussions continued after the announcement, these people said.

From this article.

Chrysler Announces Buyout Packages.

From the article: “The loss-making division of German-American car giant DaimlerChrysler said it will offer $70,000 lump sum early retirement deals to workers with 30 or more years of service and $100,000 buyout packages to those with at least one year of credited service.”

Read more here.