Owners of certain Chrysler and Dodge minivans, Jeep Grand Cherokee SUVs and Ram pickups, have filed complaints with the NHTSA over safety concerns caused by their vehicles’ Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM).
The TIPM consists of a computer, relays, and fuses that control and distribute power to the vehicles electrical systems. These include safety systems, security system, ignition, electrical power-train, airbags, fuel pump, windshield wipers, headlights, turn signals, and power windows and doors. Drivers report electrical problems which have resulted in unsafe driving conditions on numerous occasions.
Some complaints include:
- Stalling Engine
- Engine Will Not Start
- Electrical Accessories Operate Unexpectedly
- Loss Of Power Steering And Braking
- Disabled Airbag Warning Light Illumination
According to Car Complaints, the Chrysler TIMP module is the most widespread issue reported by vehicle owners this year. With over 300 complaints from owners of 2011-2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2011-2012 Dodge Durango sport utility vehicles, about half are the result of these defective modules.
The NHTSA investigated the module problem in May 2007 after receiving complaints about stalling from owners of 2007 Jeep Wranglers and 2007 Dodge Nitros. Two months later, Chrysler recalled almost 81,000 of those models for a fault with the module. The recall called for dealers to reprogram the TIPM.
Late in 2011, Chrysler sent dealers a technical service bulletin in regard about the anti-theft alarm going off for no apparent reason and about the vehicle’s failure to start. The problem was blamed on the module, used in many of its most popular models, including the 2011 Ram 1500 pickup, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango.
The problem is so widespread that the part is on national back-order and could take months before replacements become available. The vehicles involved include, 2008 Chrysler 300, 2011-2012 Jeep Grand Cherokees, 2011-2012 Dodge Durangos, and 2011-2012 Dodge Grand Caravans.
Are you experiencing repeated problems affecting the safety, value, or use of your Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram vehicle? If a manufacturer approved repair facility has had four repair attempts for the same or similar problem, or two repair attempts for safety related issues, and the problem is not fixed, you may qualify for a buyback under the California lemon law. Contact the Law Offices of Delsack & Associates at 1-888-ExLEMON (1-888-395-3666) or fill in our case review form at the top of calemonlaw.com.
