Fiat Chrysler recalls over 1.5M trucks for air bag problems

DETROIT - Fiat Chrysler (FCAU) is recalling more than 1.5 million trucks to fix problems with side-impact and driver's air bags.

The biggest of two recalls announced Thursday covers 1.35 million Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks and 3500, 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs, mainly in North America. All are from the 2012 through 2014 model years.

Fiat Chrysler says a company investigation found that some trucks may have steering wheel wires that can wear due to contact with a spring. That can cause a short circuit that could make the driver's side air bags inflate without a crash.

The company says it knows of two injuries caused by the problem but no crashes. It says an analysis of warranty data found that less than 1 percent of trucks repaired for the problem had air bags that inflated without a crash.

In some affected trucks, an air bag warning light will come on before there's a problem.

Dealers will inspect each vehicle, tie off the wiring harness and install protective caps on the springs. The company is now mailing notices to owners telling them about the recall.

The second recall covers about 188,000 Ram Quad Cab pickups from the 2014 and 2015 model years.

Fiat Chrysler says the side curtain air bags don't comply with federal regulations that protect rear passengers if the trucks roll over.

The company says it knows of no crashes, injuries or complaints.

Owners will be told when they can make an appointment to fix the problem.

The company says drivers and passengers should wear seat belts in addition to relying on air bags.