Now Chrysler Has Its Own Ignition Switch Problem

The ignition switch defects that engulfed General Motors are now a rapidly growing problem at Chrysler. Chrysler says it is recalling up to 792,300 older Jeep SUVs worldwide because the ignition switches could fall out of the "run" position, shutting off the engine and disabling air bags, as well as power-assisted steering and braking. That's the same problem that has forced GM to recall more than 15 million cars over the last six months.

Chrysler's recall covers 2005-2007 Grand Cherokees and 2006-2007 Commanders. The company says it isn't sure exactly how many vehicles will be recalled, but it will notify customers by mid-September. Chrysler says an outside force such as a driver's knee can knock switches out of the "run" position. Engineers are working on a fix. The company, which has now recalled more than 1.7 million vehicles for ignition switch problems, says it knows of no related injuries and only one accident, but it suggests that owners should keep clearance between their knees and keys until repairs are made. (More Chrysler stories.)