Fiat Chrysler recalls 1.9 million vehicles for air bag defect

DETROIT - Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCAU) is recalling more than 1.9 million vehicles worldwide because their air bags might not deploy in a crash.

The recall affects certain Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Lancia vehicles from the 2010-2014 model years. Most are in the U.S., but 224,860 were sold in Canada and Mexico and 284,051 were sold outside North America.

Fiat Chrysler says an air bag and seat-belt control module with a certain wiring design may not deploy the air bags or tighten the seat belts if the vehicle is involved in a frontal crash. That could increase the risk of injury.

The automaker says three deaths and five injuries may be related to the issue.

Fiat Chrylser will contact owners and replace the defective parts for free. The vehicles involved are:

- 2010 Chrysler Sebrin
- 2010 Chrysler Cirrus
- 2011-2014 Chrysler 200
- 2010-2012 Dodge Caliber
- 2010-2014 Dodge Avenger
- 2010-2014 Jeep Patriot
- 2010-2014 Jeep Compass
- 2012-2013 Lancia Flavia

Earlier this year, the company also recalled more than 1.1 million cars and SUVs around the world because their gear shifters may confuse drivers and allow them to exit their vehicles without placing them in “park.”