Fiat Chrysler recalls 224,000 Jeeps; air bags might not work

DETROIT — Fiat Chrysler is recalling more than 224,000 Jeep Wrangler sport-utility vehicles worldwide because their air bags might not inflate in a crash.

The recall covers certain 2016 and 2017 Wranglers. In papers filed with the government, the company says wiring to a sensor can come loose, cutting off signals to an air bag computer. If that happens, the seat belt pre-tensioners won’t work and the air bags won’t deploy, Fiat Chrysler says.

The company says no one has been hurt because the air bags didn’t inflate and that no customers have complained. The problem was discovered during company crash tests. Fiat Chrysler found that, during a crash, the left headlight would rotate, pulling the wiring loose.

Repairs to fix the problem aren’t ready yet, but Fiat Chrysler says it’s imminent and that owners will be notified when to set up a service appointment. Dealers will reroute the wiring at no cost to owners.

Fiat Chrysler says none of the 2017 models have been sold yet.

Owners can contact FCA toll-free by calling (800) 853-1403.