Fiat Chrysler recalls one million cars due to software flaw

The Fiat Chrysler group has announced that it is recalling more than a million cars because of a software error that could cause problems with the airbags and seat belts. Most cars are being recalled in the United States.

On its website, Fiat Chrysler explains the problems underlying the recall of the cars. Research by the car manufacturer shows that in some cases the system can come to the wrong conclusion that a certain sensor is no longer working. A warning light can then be shown, whereby a side airbag and the so-called seatbelt pretensioner are switched off. The latter must ensure that the seat belt is already tightened before the occupant shoots forward in a collision.

It is possible to fix the problems in the short term by turning the car off and on. The system that causes the software error is reset after every ride. However, to fix the problem permanently, a software update must be installed by the vehicle manufacturer.

About one million vehicles are being recalled in the United States to install the new software. This mainly concerns the Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500. Also outside the United States, including probably in Europe, there are tens of thousands of cars that are being recalled.