Chrysler recently released a defective product recall that could affect thousands of Pennsylvania drivers. The company is recalling several car models because of a faulty fuse that could prevent the anti-lock braking system in the vehicles from working properly. The models that are being recalled due to the auto defect include Dodge Chargers and Chrysler 300s that were manufactured between 2010 and 2012.

The first reports regarding the defect came from police departments that use the Dodge Chargers as squad cars. Chrysler responded by recalling approximately 10,000 cars that were being used for law enforcement purposes. However, the company did not issue a full consumer recall on the cars until sometime later. The main reason for the delay was that the company believed the defect was occurring because of "extreme duty driving" rather than normal operation.

After reviewing reports and data related to the faulty fuse issue, the car manufacturer recognized that the defect was not merely an isolated problem. The company found that a plastic insert surrounding the fuse was capable of expanding and interfering with the power supply to the anti-lock braking system. They reacted by issuing a full safety recall on Dodge Chargers and Chrysler 300 models that were manufactured between 2010 and 2012 and sold in the United States and Canada.

To date, only a small number of safety incidents related to this issue have been reported by consumers. However, in order to keep yourself, your family and other drivers on the road safe, you should respond to the recall of you own one of the affected models. You can learn more information about this recall by contacting your nearest Chrysler dealer or service location.

Source: USA Today, "Dodge Charger, Chrysler 300 recall: Fuse can affect brakes," James R. Healey, May 7, 2012