8.3
pretty bad- Typical Repair Cost:
- $1,000
- Average Mileage:
- 60,250 miles
- Total Complaints:
- 7 complaints
Most common solutions:
- replace sensors (4 reports)
- not sure (2 reports)
- replace fuse (1 reports)
My blind spot sensor is now beeping ALL THE TIME. When I took it to the dealer, they said with a straight face it would cost around $3,000 to replace these sensors. First of all, this is a safety issue. Driving around and not having access to the sensor notifications when needed, yet being constantly tortured with the nonstop beeping is the OPPOSITE of a safety feature. It is dangerous to drive around like this and three grand is ridiculous to fix this DESIGN FLAW! It appears I can buy these sensors online for around $300 each, and I will need two totaling $600 and they just plug in. How do they get to $3K?? It seems pretty straight forward to fix, but it could be other problems could be caused by mucking around in there and wiggling all of those poorly protected wires. I don't understand why Chrysler wouldn't just plug in these new sensors to fix this problem, as they surely are not that expensive for them. The bad press and furious customers are surely more costly than two sensors. What is the cost of an accident caused by the faulty sensor system and the interminable beeping? Chrysler fix your errors please.
- krisks, Framingham, US
Bought a 2nd hand T & C at 60,000KM's which looks like it was my first mistake. We bought it as we need the towing capacity. Was concerned about reliability but the dealer told us not to worry, we should buy extended warranty from Nationwide...extends factory warranty to 140,000KM's. Apparently, the blind spot detection module is not covered. Feel like we've been had. Never again Chrysler.
- Simon G., TORONTO, ON, Canada
I have talked on several occasions with the dealer service department on this issue and at one point they indicated it is a problem this vehicle has had often. After some complaining, they indicated Chrysler would not recall the item module but then indicated since it is a common problem, Chrysler is fixing the problem for about $500. I then asked the dealer service rep if this assures the problem is fixed and won't recur and he indicated he had no idea of the success with the replacement part. I have now learned more about the part and that it is poorly designed and water/moisture can get into the module and short it out.
On a phone call with Chrysler's customer support, the rep indicated it is not a manufacturing issues because those problems occur while under warranty. I asked if it was not poor design or manufacture defect, how can it fail? When stumped, I asked the rep is this "safety feature" was considered a consumable or wear rated component such as tires or brakes and he indicated "no" but when pressed then how it can fail, he backtracked and was willing to suggest it's due to use. I asked specifically if at approximately 60,000 miles had I had more than the usual amount of items come into my blind spots which over used the detection system and he actually suggested it may be.
This feature is listed under the Functional/Safety Features of the vehicle along with a few other items which are not working which I'm told are also as a result of this problem (Park Sense Rear Park Assist and Parkview Rear Backup Camera). In the same list of Functional/Safety Features are 4 different types (locations) of Airbags. I asked the Chrysler Rep if he would have the same attitude toward the various airbags on the system should they not deploy after 4-5-7 years, would Chrysler and the Government have the attitude that it's not their problem. Like the module having the problem, the airbags are not something I can touch, inspect, over use, etc. The NHTSA demands they not only be present but that they work. This is a similar safety feature. Should I merge into an occupied land and have an accident, even kill someone, I believe this faulty part should have some of the blame. THEY SOLD IT AS A SAFETY FEATURE!
By the way, when I was told by the Chrysler Rep that there is nothing they are willing to do with for consumers - never in any circumstance, I challenged him and he did admit there are circumstances where they evaluate loyalty and may help out a customer. I have a 2008 Chrysler 300 and have had other Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge products over the years and told him I was surprised that assistance with replacing a FAILED or DEFECTIVE SAFETY FEATURE depended on how much I have, and may, spend on Chrysler products. He indicated that how much we spend did not matter, suggesting that loyalty is not measured or equated with past and future purchases. Apparently I have not been "loyal enough"
I will post separate incident reports for the other affected systems and features as well.
- Dan T., Birmingham, MI, US
Blind spot detection system stopped working, then later the compass, backup camera, and backup warning system stopped working. This is because the blind spot detection sensors completely failed mechanically, as shown in the picture, and caused excessive current on the supply line.
Thankfully, the fuse blew, but this caused the camera, compass, etc, to stop working since they share the same fuse (M34, 10A).
The design of the blind spot detection systems sensors is somewhat surprising to me, considering that obviously the sensors are exposed to the elements. Having one sensor fail could arguably be explained by a random failure, but having them both fail in the same way in 4 years indicates a significant design weakness.
- Philip B., Auburn, MI, US
You can have this blind spot detection repaired for an estimated couple of thousand dollars. Since you probably paid about $50 000, it is easier to turn the lights in the mirrors off using the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) Display. You should also expect the park assist to stop working. My alternator was replaced (stranded at night at the side of the road) within the first year. The bubbling paint was also fixed. They tried to fix the wind sound as you drive down the highway, but that was not successful. The sun roof that we don't use also allows water to accumulate in the center console and the front seats. The stow and go does not want to stow and slows your ability to go. Don't try to drive with only the middle windows down or you may go crazy. There are other issues, but don't expect goodwill from Chrysler nor the dealerships. I tried this, but I was unsuccessful. My loyalty (stupidity to purchase 3 new vans and 3 new cars ) to Chrysler is gone!
- last chrysler, London, ON, Canada
Purchased a "Gold Plus" third party warranty from the dealer. The blind spot detection problem is caused by bad sensors, only modules are covered!!!! This electrical box looks like a modual to me! NEVER again for third party warranty coverage for me.
- jeffsedlak, Chagrin Falls, OH, US
I've been waiting for this #Chrysler #SafetyFeature to malfunction, and the time has come! #ImagineThat? There should in fact be a recall on this #Defecive #Safety #Option.
- Raymond G., Jamestown, NY, US