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Chrysler, Dodge, Mercedez-Benz, and Jeep Headrests Can “Burst Open”, “Explode” Without Warning
According to reports, the Active Head Restraint (AHR) systems equipped in the headrests can deploy inadvertently, causing the front of the headrest to jut forward and strike drivers and passengers in the back of the head. Clients and affected consumers describe the occurrence as the headrest “bursting open” or even “exploding.”
Typically, the AHR system is meant to provide head and neck support in the event of a collision in an effort to reduce whiplash. However, in some vehicles, the system is engaging without reason even when cars are in motion. The impact of an inadvertent deployment can cause significant head injuries, even knocking occupants unconscious.
So far, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has received nearly 500 complaints of the headrests deploying inadvertently with at least 71 complaints involving injuries.
Fiat Chrysler Faces Possible Class Action for Headrest Failures
A proposed class action for the headrests seeking compensation for multiple vehicle owners names Fiat Chrysler as well as the manufacturer of the AHR system, Grammer AG of Amberg, Germany, as defendants. The 64-page complaint alleges the issue can be traced back to a “cheap plastic component” that cannot withstand the constant 75 pounds of pressure applied by the AHR spring mechanism. Further, the plaintiffs say the use of the piece was a “cost-saving measure” that put the AHRs at a high risk of failure.
A complaint filed as part of the proposed class action also states Fiat Chrysler has been presented with evidence of the AHS accidental deployment issue but has refused to take action to recall the AHR systems or the headrests. They have also declined to pay for repairs for affected consumers.
Because the automaker has been notified of the problem and has declined to notify consumers, the complaint alleges Fiat Chrysler exercised “fraudulent concealment” and caused buyers and lessees to pay more for the vehicle than they may have provided they had been made aware of the AHS deployment problems.
Vehicles Affected by the Dodge, Jeep, Chrysler, and Mercedes-Benz Headrest Issues
According to a class-action lawsuit filed against Fiat Chrysler and complaints made to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the following vehicles are prone to the potentially dangerous headrest problems:
- 2010-2018 Dodge Journey
- 2010-2011 Dodge Nitro
- 2010-2012 Jeep Liberty
- 2010-2017 Jeep Patriot
- 2010-2017 Jeep Compass
- 2010-2012 Dodge Caliber
- 2010-2018 Dodge Caravan
- 2011-2018 Dodge Ram C/V
- 2011-2018 Dodge Durango
- 2011-2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- 2010-2014 Sebring/Avenger
- 2011-2018 Chrysler Town & Country
- 2011-2018 Chrysler 200
- 2011-2018 Chrysler 300
- 2004-2021 Mercedes C-Class
- 2004-2010 Mercedes CLK-Class
- 2005-2016 Mercedes CLS-Class
- 2005-2021 Mercedes E-Class
Can I Sue if I Was Injured by the Headrest in My Chrysler, Jeep, Mercedes-Benz, or Dodge Vehicle?
If you have suffered an injury due to a headrest in a Chrysler, Jeep, or Dodge vehicle, call Thomas J. Henry Law for a FREE case review. We are currently representing multiple affected clients and have the legal experience and financial resources to take on large companies like Fiat Chrysler and Mercedes-Benz.
Our firm has offices in Corpus Christi, San Antonio, Dallas, Austin, and Houston serving clients across Texas and nationwide. Let us help you, contact our offices now to speak with an experienced Fiat Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, or Mercedes headrest defect lawyer and explosions attorney.
