Chrysler Group Recalls Dodge Durangos, Dakotas to Replace Ball Joints

* Company will replace front suspension upper ball joints on approximately 600,000 2000-2003.5 MY Dodge Durango 4x4 SUVs and Dodge Dakota Pickups * An additional 400,000 4x2 SUVs and Pickups in the same model years to be covered with extended 10 year/100,000 mile warranty

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Dec. 10 -- Chrysler Group will recall approximately 600,000 Model Year 2000-2003.5 Dodge Durango 4x4 SUVs and Dodge Dakota pickup trucks to replace front suspension upper ball joints that may be subject to progressive wear.

In addition, to alleviate potential customer concerns, the company will extend the warranty to 10 years or 100,000 miles on the suspension upper ball joints on an additional 400,000 MY2000-2003.5 Durango and Dakota 4x2 vehicles.

Repairs will be made at no cost to owners. Owners of vehicles covered by this action who have previously paid for the repair will be reimbursed by Chrysler Group.

Chrysler Group's internal investigation has shown that the front suspension upper ball joints on some vehicles may be subject to corrosion and progressive wear. If this condition is ignored for an extended period of time, it could lead to front end noise, tire wear, and in extreme cases separation of the front suspension. There have been no substantiated reports of injuries associated with this condition on these vehicles.

Owners will be notified of the action by letter beginning later this month.