Recall - ABS Wiring Corrosion: Overview
September 2004Dealer Service Instructions for:
Safety Recall D20 - ABS Wiring Corrosion
Models
1998-2003 (AB) Dodge Ram Van/Wagon
NOTE:
This recall applies only to the above vehicles equipped with a 4-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) (sales code BGK).
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. Involved vehicles can be determined by using the VIP inquiry process.
Subject
Electrolyte (battery acid) from aftermarket batteries may leak onto an Antilock Brake System (ABS) wiring connector on about 43,000 of the above vehicles. This may cause the wiring to corrode and short circuit, which can result in an underhood fire.
Repair
All vehicles must have a revised battery tray installed that will protect the ABS control module wiring harness connector from future electrolyte leakage. A cowl seal extension must also be installed on all vehicles to redirect any water draining from the windshield away from the battery.
The ABS control module wiring harness and connector must be inspected for electrolyte damage and repaired if necessary.
Parts Information
Completion Reporting and Reimbursement
Claims for vehicles that have been serviced must be submitted on the DealerCONNECT Claim Entry Screen located on the Service tab. Claims submitted will be used by DaimlerChrysler to record recall service completions and provide dealer payments.
Use one of the labor operation numbers and time allowances shown.
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 and 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 DCMMS. DealerCONNECT will be updated to include this recall in the near future.
Vehicle Lists, Global Recall System, VIP and Dealer Follow Up
All involved vehicles have been entered into the DealerCONNECT Global Recall System (GRS) and Vehicle Information Plus (VIP) for dealer inquiry as needed.
Involved dealers were also mailed a copy of their vehicle (VIN) list with the dealer recall notification letter.
GRS provides involved dealers with an updated VIN list of their incomplete vehicles. The owner's name, address and phone number are listed if known. Completed vehicles are removed from GRS within several days of repair claim submission.
To use this system, click on the "Service" tab and then click on "Global Recall System." Your dealer's VIN list for each recall displayed can be sorted by: those vehicles that were unsold at recall launch, those with a phone number, city, zip code, or VIN sequence.
Dealers must perform this repair on all unsold vehicles before retail delivery.
Dealers should also use the VIN list to follow up with all owners to schedule appointments for this repair.
Recall VIN lists may contain confidential, restricted owner name and address information that was obtained from the Department of Motor Vehicles of various states. Use of this information is permitted for this recall only and is strictly prohibited from all other use.
Owner Notification and Service Scheduling
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 generic copy of the owner letter is included.
Enclosed with each owner letter is an Owner Notification postcard to allow owners to update our records if applicable.
Additional Information
If you have any questions or need assistance in completing this action, please contact your Service and Parts District Manager.
Customer Services Field Operations
DaimlerChrysler Corporation