Statement: Half Shaft Bolts

August 23, 2013 , Auburn Hills, Mich. -  Chrysler Group has begun contacting owners of model-year 2013 Fiat 500e battery-electric vehicles. A recall is being conducted to replace bolts that secure the vehicles’ half shafts.

The issue is unrelated to the 500e’s electric powertrain. Half shafts transfer torque from a vehicle’s gearbox to its wheels.

An investigation was launched after Chrysler Group learned a customer’s vehicle exhibited power loss. Engineers discovered two assembly steps had not been properly completed; creating a condition that could lead to half shaft separation.

Chrysler Group is unaware of any related accidents or injuries.

Chrysler Group has notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that 491 vehicles are involved. Affected customers are being contacted and will receive free rental vehicles while their vehicles are being repaired.

Repairs will be performed at no cost to customers.

Customer questions or concerns can be addressed by calling 1-800-853-1403.