Fiat Chrysler Recalls a Bevy of Models Following In-use Emissions Tests

It’s not just TTAC readers’ favorite crossover, the Dodge Journey, that’s under recall for emissions non-compliance — the same callback order impacts such vehicles as the first-generation Jeep Patriot and Compass, Dodge Caliber and Avenger, and Chrysler 200.

Fiat Chrysler claims its voluntary recall of 862,520 vehicles in the U.S. isn’t a big deal, as the automaker is simply complying with Environmental Protection Agency regulations. Owners stand to get a new catalytic convertor out of the deal.

In a release, FCA repeated the EPA’s statement that the recall “is the result of in-use emissions investigations conducted by EPA and in-use testing conducted by FCA as required by EPA regulations.”

The models in question are the front-drive 2011-2016 Dodge Journey, 2011-2016 Jeep Patriot and Compass (equipped with front-wheel drive and a continuously variable transmission), 2011-2012 Dodge Caliber, and 2011-2014 Chrysler 200 and Dodge Avenger.

In-use testing is one of four checks the EPA uses to keep the industry in line on emissions, with tests “occuring after the vehicles or engines have been certified and after they have been in customer service for some period of time.” These aging FCA vehicles didn’t clear the bar out in the real world, though the EPA says owners can continue driving them until their dealer brings them into compliance.

Of the six models listed, only two remain in production.

“Due to the large number of vehicles involved and the need to supply replacement components – specifically to the vehicle’s catalytic converter – this recall will be implemented in phases during the 2019 calendar year beginning with the oldest vehicles first,” the agency stated.

Under FCA’s recall schedule, 2011MY vehicles will see shop time in the first quarter of 2019, with 2012MY vehicles getting a fix in the second quarter. Owners of 2013 and 2014 vehicles will have to wait until the third quarter, with the newest vehicles going under the technician’s knife in Q4.

“We are advised that today’s EPA announcement reflects a new policy for announcing routine emissions recalls,” FCA said in a statement. “This campaign has no safety implications. Nor are there any associated fines. This issue was discovered by FCA during routine in-use emissions testing and reported to the agency. We began contacting affected customers last month to advise them of the needed repairs, which will be provided at no charge.”

[Images: Fiat Chrysler Automobiles]