Chrysler recalls 1.2 million Dodge Ram trucks

(UPI) -- Chrysler has recalled 1.2 million Dodge Ram models due to potential steering issues following a series of accidents.

The Michigan-based automaker announced three recalls Friday, after seven accidents and two injuries associated with the problem.

A number of models might have partially misaligned steering systems due to improperly installed tie-rods.

The problem might have come from a mix-up among technician instructions, a Chrysler spokesperson said in a statement.

The first and largest group recalled involves 2003-2008 Dodge models 2500 and 3500. The two smaller groups include 2008-2012 Ram 2500 and 3500 pickups, 2008-2012 Ram 4500 and 5500 chassis cabs and 2008 Ram 1400 4x4 Mega Cabs.

More than 450,000 vehicles will need repairs. Affected customers will be notified by mail in December, and replacement parts will be available in January. Most of the repairs involve 2003-2012 Ram 2500 and 3500 pickups.

Chrysler says parts for the 2008-2012 Dodge model 4500 and 5500 trucks might not be ready until late 2014, but the vehicles can be taken in for interim repairs and realignment.

Chrysler is a unit of Italy's Fiat SpA. It recalled almost 500,000 Jeep and Ram vehicles in May due to transmission, coolant and airbag problems. It recalled almost 3 million Jeeps in June after a government request due to a potential fire risk.

Most of the estimated 968,000 Dodge Rams recalled in November are in North America, and 18,000 are outside North America.