Recall - Automatic Transmission Vent Hose: Overview
September 2000Safety Recall No. 890
Automatic Transmission Vent Hose
Models
2000 (AN) Dodge Dakota
NOTE:
This recall applies only to the above vehicles equipped with a 45RFE automatic transmission (Sales Code DG4) built from December 1, 1999 through March 3, 2000 (MDH 1201XX through 0303XX).
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
The automatic transmission vent hose on about 20,000 of the above vehicles may be pinched closed. This may cause transmission fluid to be expelled through the transmission filler tube. Transmission fluid leakage in the presence of an ignition source can result in an underhood fire.
Repair
The transmission vent hose must be removed, shortened and reinstalled.
Parts Information
The transmission vent hose on some vehicles may not have been installed. Due to the small number of involved vehicles expected to require vent hose installation, no parts will be distributed initially. Vent hoses (P/N 53032457AA) should be ordered only after inspection determines that the vent hose is missing. Very few vehicles are expected to require vent hose installation.
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.
Add the cost of the vent hose, if necessary, plus applicable dealer allowance to your claim.
NOTE:
See the Warranty Administration Manual, Recall Claim Processing Section, for complete recall 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 DaimerChrysler 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 "0RD890".
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. The involved vehicle and recall are identified on the form for owner or dealer reference as needed.
Vehicles 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:
DaimerChrysler 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.