The problem
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. The steering column coupler can become disconnected when the vehicle experiences an underbody impact.
The risk
Loss of steering control can occur.
The fix
Dealers will replace the steering column coupler with a coupler design that collapses on impact.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 97V-169 (97V169000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) |
| Component | Steering › Steering wheel/handle bar |
| Report date | October 7, 1997 |
| Owners notified | November 15, 1997 |
| Vehicles affected | 375,000 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the steering
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 97V-169 repair free?
Yes. Dodge dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace the steering column coupler with a coupler design that collapses on impact.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 375,000 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.