The problem
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. Through degradation of the bond between the silencer pad and a sheet metal panel (quarter inner upper), the pad May fall onto the map light located in the rear seating area near the c-pillar trim panel (lh and rh). This contact could cause the pad to melt, creating a hot smell and/or smoke during long periods of illumination.
The risk
Smoke inhalation could be harmful to vehicle occupants.
The fix
Dealers will remove the insulation pad from behind both rear map lights.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 00V-278 (00V278000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 896 |
| Manufacturer | Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) |
| Component | Structure › Frame and members › Underbody shields |
| Report date | September 18, 2000 |
| Owners notified | January 22, 2001 |
| Vehicles affected | 4,504 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the body & structure
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 00V-278 repair free?
Yes. Chrysler dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will remove the insulation pad from behind both rear map lights.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 4,504 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.