Please note that this recall specifically applies to DSMs with Chrysler specific Badging. While the same recall/repairs apply to Mitsubishi brand vehicles the repairs legally cannot be done at a Chrysler dealer. Please see your local Mitsubishi dealer for more information on what recalls apply to your Mitsubishi brand vehicle.
This recall applies to all 1990 through 1998 year model AWD Talons built through February 2, 1998, 1992-1994 year model Plymouth Laser RS AWD vehicles.
The transfer case on the above listed vehicles may develop an oil leak and/or have a low oil level. This may cause the wheels to lock up and result in an accident without warning.
Chrysler will repair your talon or laser free of charge (parts and labor). To do this, your dealer will inspect the transfer case, adjust the oil level and repair or replace the transfer case as necessary. In addition, the driveshaft yoke will be inspected for leaks and replaced if necessary. The inspection will take about 1/2 hour to complete. Repairs, if necessary, may require an additional two hours. However, additional time may be necessary depending on how dealer appointments are scheduled and processed.
To ensure your safety you must simply contact your dealer right away to schedule a service appointment. Ask the dealer to hold the parts for your vehicle or to order them before your appointment. You need to bring the Owner Notification Form with you to your dealer. It explains the required service to the dealer.
If you have trouble getting your vehicle inspected and repaired (if necessary), please call the Chrysler Customer Center, toll free, at 1-800-992-1997. A representative will assist you in getting your vehicle serviced. If your dealer fails or is unable to remedy this defect without charge and within a reasonable time, you may submit a written complaint to the Administrator, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 400 Seventh Street, S.W. Washington, D.C. 20590, or call the Toll Free Auto Safety Hotline at 1-800-424-939. (Washington, D.C. area residents may call 1-202-366-0123.)
Notes From Doug:
Well here it is. The one everybody keeps asking about. It applies to nearly every single AWD DSM out there and makes a pretty nasty horror story if you've ever had one lock up on you. There's SO many threads out there on this I won't even go in to it. Just look here:
http://www.dsmtuners.com/forums/showthread.php?t=19280
And actually read it. All of the questions, answers and thoughts remotely close to the transfer case have been brought up time and time again in this thread alone. Parts for this recall are NOT kept at the local dealership and probably only in the national depot. The output seal MAY be at the dealership but don't hold your breath. Expect a parts wait of at least a week. Expect the recall time to take 1/2 a day from the time the tech starts the work until finished. This does not include the time needed to finish up what's on his lift before getting to your car.