Recalls hurting Grand Cherokee sales, admits Jeep - Motoring
Jeep has admitted the Grand Cherokee's sales slump of more than 25 per cent this year – when overall SUV sales have increased by almost 15 per cent -- is due to supply issues and negative publicity over the model’s numerous safety recalls. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Australia boss Pat Dougherty said that while low stock was the primary reason for the slower sales this year, recalls have also affected the popularity of Jeep’s flagship model. Since its introduction in 2011, the current-generation Grand Cherokee has amassed no fewer than 11 safety recall notices – including two in 2013, eight last year and one so far this year – making it one of Australia's most recalled vehicles ever. Key issues that have prompted the recalls range from the potential for fuel pump relay failure, unwanted side airbag or seat airbag deployment, anti-lock brake or stability control system failure and poor braking performance due to brake booster... “One of the biggest issues we’ve had is, having a recall is not a problem per se — in fact recalls are going to expand going forward because the NHTSA’s become very strident in saying ‘we need to have anything that could arise out of any potential... “The fact that they now have made public statements about that fact that the [US] federal government prosecuting criminally the General Motors folks in the ignition switch issue. Source: www.motoring.com.au
