Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) has issued a concerning recall affecting the 2024 Dodge Hornet and 2024-2025 Alfa Romeo Tonale models. The issue involves the brake pedal potentially collapsing without warning on 21,069 vehicles. Thankfully, the automaker has not reported any injuries related to this problem, although one accident has been noted amidst numerous reported failures.
The recall documents submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration do not provide a detailed explanation, merely stating that the pedal could collapse. The remedy is straightforward—dealers will install a bolt and nut in the brake assembly to reinforce the pedal. Photographs indicate that the bolt will pass through a pre-existing hole in the housing attached to the interior firewall. It remains unclear whether the new bolt replaces one that might have become loose or was never installed initially. The repair process takes approximately 30 minutes and is provided free of charge to vehicle owners.
In the event that the pedal fails while driving, the recall advises drivers of the Hornet and Tonale to utilize the electronic parking brake, which remains functional while in motion and can bring the vehicle to a stop. Additionally, the vehicle's automatic emergency braking assist system remains active regardless of the pedal's condition. However, it is advisable to regain control of the vehicle before an emergency situation arises.
The Dodge Hornet constitutes the majority of the recall, with 16,960 units affected. The first reported issue dates back to November 2023, but FCA's parent company, Stellantis, did not initiate an investigation until late September 2024. By October 1, Stellantis had received 12 global reports potentially linked to this issue.
As of October 18, FCA leads in recalls in the United States, with 54 recalls affecting a total of 4,268,522 vehicles.
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