919K Older Jeep SUVs Recalled Over Airbag Issue

Chrysler is recalling more than 919,000 older-model Jeep SUVs worldwide because the airbags can inflate while people are driving. The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says the recall affects Jeep Grand Cherokees from the 2002 through 2004 model years. Also covered are Jeep Libertys from model years 2002 and 2003.

A part can fail in the airbag control computer, and the front and side airbags can inflate while the SUVs are being driven. An investigation by the safety agency found that the airbags went off 215 times, causing 81 minor injuries. No crashes were reported. Chrysler, which makes Jeeps, will install an electrical harness to fix the problem. The company will begin notifying owners of the recall in January.