Recall - Catalytic Converter Defect: Overview
No. 7932December, 1998
To: All Dodge and Chrysler-Plymouth Dealers
Subject:
Emissions Recalls # 7931 and # 7932 -- Catalytic Converter
Models:
1998 Model Year Chrysler Cirrus, Dodge Stratus and Plymouth Breeze (JA) Vehicles Built From March 1, 1998 Through March 21, 1998 (MDH 0301XX Through 0321XX)
^ Federal Emission Control System (Sales Code -- NAA) -- Recall # 7931
^ California Emission Control System (Sales Code -- NAE) -- Recall # 7932
The catalytic converter on about 1,500 of the above listed vehicles may have been welded with incorrect weld wire. This may result in corrosion of the converter weld joints and cause premature failure of the catalytic converter. To correct this condition, the catalytic converter must be replaced.
IMPORTANT:
This recall (# 7932) is subject to the State of California Registration Renewal/Emissions Recall Enforcement Program. Involved vehicles must have the recall service completed before registration renewal.
The servicing dealer must provide a Vehicle Emission Recall Proof of Correction Form (Form No. 81-016-1053) to each California vehicle owner upon completion of the Recall # 7932 service, for use as proof in renewal of the vehicle registration.
Dealer Notification & Vehicle List
All dealers will receive a copy of this dealer recall notification letter by first class mail. Each dealer to whom involved vehicles were invoiced (or the current dealer at the same street address) will receive a list of their involved vehicles. The Vehicle List is arranged in Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) sequence. Owners known to Chrysler are also listed. The lists are for dealer reference in arranging for service of involved vehicles.
DIAL System Functions 53 and VIP
All involved vehicles will be entered to DIAL System Functions 53 and VIP at the time of recall implementation for dealer inquiry as needed.
Function 53 provides involved dealers with an updated VIN list of their incomplete vehicles. The customer name address and phone number is listed if known. Parts information is also provided. Completed vehicles are removed from Function 53 within several days of repair claim submission. To use this system type "53" at the "ENTER FUNCTION" prompt, then type "ORD7931" (Federal emission vehicles) or "ORD7932" (California emission vehicles).
Parts
IMPORTANT:
Due to the small number of involved vehicles, no parts will be distributed to involved dealers. Parts may be ordered as needed to support scheduled repairs.
Dealers should determine which catalytic converter is required for each vehicle at the time appointments are scheduled to assure that the correct part is available when the customer arrives. The appropriate converter for the vehicle to be serviced may be determined by:
^ Using the part code in the third column of the VIN list along with the following table (involved dealers);
^ Using the VIN and part number list electronically transmitted to DIAL. System Function 53 (involved dealers); or
^ Entering the VIN to DIAL System VIP Function (sales code information) along with the table (all dealers).
Recall Completion Label Requirement
For vehicles involved in Recall # 7932 there is a California Air Resources Board requirement to affix a label to the vehicle to certify that the emissions recall was completed. Dealers are requested to order the required Authorized Modifications Label PN 04275086 as necessary to support scheduled repairs. Refer to the Service Procedure of this letter for application instructions.
Owner Notification and Service Scheduling
All involved vehicle owners known to Chrysler are being notified of the service requirement by first class mail. They are requested to schedule appointments for this service with their dealers. Copies of the owner notification letters are included.
Enclosed with each owner notification is an Owner Notification Form. The involved vehicle and recall are identified on the form for owner or dealer reference as needed.
Completion Reporting and Reimbursement
Claims for vehicles which have been serviced must be submitted on the DIAL System. Claims submitted will be used by Chrysler to record recall service completions and provide dealer payments.
Use the following labor operation number and time allowance:
Labor Operation Time
Number Allowance
Replace catalytic converter 11793182 0.6 hours
Add the cost of the catalytic converter plus applicable dealer allowance to your claim.
Parts Return
Removed catalytic converters must be returned to the Warranty Material Return Center.
Note:
See the Warranty Administration Manual, Recall Claim Processing Section for complete recall claim processing and material return instructions.
Vehicle Not Available
If a vehicle is not available for service for a known reason, let us know by filling out the pre-addressed Vehicle Disposition Form portion of the Owner Notification Form or describe the reason on a postcard and mail to:
Chrysler Corporation
CIMS 482-00-85
800 Chrysler Drive East
Auburn Hills, Michigan 48326-2757
Following the above procedures will expedite the processing of your claim.
If you have any questions or need assistance in completing this action, please contact your Zone Service Office.