FCA Recalls Pickup Trucks with Faulty Clutch Switch

2007 Dodge Dakota

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV is preparing to launch a worldwide recall in February to replace a faulty clutch interlock switch in 66,800 of its 2006-2007 Dodge Dakota, Dodge Ram and Mitsubishi Raider pickup trucks equipped with manual transmissions.

The switch is supposed to prevent the engine from starting unless the vehicle's clutch pedal is depressed.

FCA says a wire in the switch could break, either preventing the engine from starting or enabling it to start when the clutch is engaged. In the latter case, the vehicle would begin moving as soon as the starter motor turned on. The company reports one fatality in which a child was struck and killed after another child started a Ram truck with the vehicle in gear.

More than 80% of the affected vehicles are in the U.S., according to the company. Most of the others are in Canada and Mexico, and about 300 are located outside North America.