Recall - Airbag Electronic Control Module: Overview
March 1999Safety Recall No. 815
Airbag Electronic Control Module
Models
1995-1997 (AB) Dodge Ram Vans and Wagons
IMPORTANT:
Some of the involved vehicles may be in dealer used vehicle inventory. Dealers should complete this recall service on these vehicles before retail delivery. Dealers should also perform this recall on vehicles in for service as determined by using the DIAL VIP System.
Subject
Internal corrosion of the airbag electronic control module (AECM) on about 250,000 of the above vehicles can cause the module to inadvertently deploy the driver's airbag. Inadvertent airbag deployment can injure a driver's seat occupant.
Repair
The AECM must be replaced and a protective cover must be installed over the new AECM. In addition, early 1995 model year vehicles must have the AECM software updated for compatibility with the seat belt system.
Part Number Description
CCSL815O AECM Package
Each package contains the following components:
Quantity Description
1 AECM and Bracket Assembly
1 AECM Cover
1 Wiring Jumper Harness
4 Screws - AECM-to-Floor Pan
4 Screws - Cover-to-AECM
Each dealer, to whom vehicles in the recall were invoiced (or the current dealer at the same street address), will receive enough AECM Packages to service about 25% of those vehicles.
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 one of the following labor operation numbers and time allowances:
Labor Operation Time
Number Allowance
Replace AECM and install cover 08815182 0.4 hours
Replace AECM, install cover and 08815183 0.5 hours
update AECM (Early 1995 models only)
Add the cost of the recall parts package 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 required.
Dealer Notification & 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 CMMS and the "TIL" 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 DaimlerChrysler 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 will be entered to DIAL System Functions 53 and VIP at the time of recall implementation 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 is 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 "ORD815".
Owner Notification & Vehicle List
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 notification letter is included.
Enclosed with each owner notification is an Owner Notification Form. The involved vehicle and recall are identified on the form for owner or dealer reference as needed.
Vehicle Not Available
If a vehicle is not available for service, let us know by filling out the pre-addressed Vehicle Disposition Form portion of the Owner Notification Form or describe the reason on a postcard and mail to:
DaimlerChrysler 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.