Chrysler recalls 370,297 vehicles globally

CHICAGO -- Chrysler Group LLC said Thursday it was recalling 370,297 pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles because a loose fastener could cause the rear axle to lock up and make a driver lose control.

The recall has implications for 370,297 vehicles globally. Affected are 2009 Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen SUVs, 2009-2011 Dodge Dakota pickups and 2009-2012 Ram 1500 pickups, according to a news release on the company's official website.

Some rear axles were assembled with a fastener that can loosen and lead to failure. Chrysler Group dealers will install a retainer, at no cost to customers, which secures the fastener.

Chrysler Group is unaware of any associated injuries. Customers will be notified directly if their vehicles are subject to recall. The recall is expected to begin in March.

This expands on an initial recall of over 44,000 pickups for the same issue last September. Chrysler recalled more than 44,000 Dakotas and Ram 1500 pickups for the same problem.

Further review of customer complaints and field reports showed the problem also existed for vehicles not covered by the first recall, according to documents filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).