Recall - Map Lamp Insulation Melting: Overview
January 2001Safety Recall No. 896 - Rear Map Light Insulation Pads
Models
2001 (ST) Dodge Stratus Coupe and Chrysler Sebring Coupe (Two-Door)
NOTE:
This recall applies only to the above vehicles built through July 20, 2000 (MDH 0720XX).
IMPORTANT:
Some of the involved vehicles may be in dealer new vehicle inventory. Federal law requires you to stop sale and complete this recall service on these vehicles before retail delivery. Dealers should also consider this requirement to apply to used vehicle inventory and should perform this recall on vehicles in for service. Involved vehicles can be determined by using the DIAL VIP System.
Subject
An insulation pad located behind the rear seat map lights on about 4,400 of the above vehicles may fall onto the map light bulb. Although there is no risk of fire, the heat from the bulb may melt the pad causing an odor and/or smoke in the interior of the vehicle. Smoke inhalation could be harmful to vehicle occupants.
Repair
The insulation pad located behind both rear seat map lights must be removed.
Parts Information
No parts are required for this service.
Service Procedure
1. Using a trim stick, remove the left rear map light assembly (Figure 1).
2. Remove the insulation pad on the C-pillar surface directly behind the map light opening (Figure 1).
3. Install the left rear map light assembly.
4. Repeat Steps 1-3 for the right rear map light assembly.
Completion Reporting and Reimbursement
Claims for vehicles that have been serviced must be submitted on the DIAL System. Claims submitted will be used by DaimlerChrysler to record recall service completions and provide dealer payments.
Use the labor operation number and time allowance as shown:
NOTE:
See the Warranty Administration Manual, Recall Claim Processing Section, for complete claim processing instructions.
Parts Return
Not Applicable
Dealer Notification and Vehicle List
All dealers will receive a copy of this dealer recall notification letter by first class mail. Two additional copies will be sent through the DCMMS, and the MDS2 will be updated to include this recall in the near future. 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 DaimlerChrysler 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 have been entered to DIAL System Functions 53 and VIP 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 are listed if known. 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 "0RD896".
Owner Notification and Service scheduling
All involved vehicle owners known to DaimlerChrysler are being notified of the service requirement by first class mail. They are requested to schedule appointments for this service with their dealers. A copy of the owner letter is shown.
Enclosed with each owner letter is an Owner Notification Form (not shown). The involved vehicle and recall are identified on the form for owner or dealer reference as needed.
Dealers are encouraged to consider alternative scheduling and servicing approaches for this recall. This repair does not require hoists or other full service facility special equipment and is a DaimlerChrysler Mobile Service approved repair.
Vehicle Not Available
If a vehicle is not available for service, let us know by filling out the pre-addressed Owner Notification Form or describe the reason on a postcard and mail to:
DaimlerChrysler Corporation
CIMS 482-00-85
800 Chrysler Drive East
Auburn Hills, Michigan 48326-2757
Additional Information
If you have any questions or need assistance in completing this action, please contact your Zone Service Office.
Customer Services Field Operations
DaimlerChrysler Corporation