Fiat recalls 1.9 million cars after three deaths

DETROIT, Sept. 16 (UPI) -- Fiat Chrysler is recalling between 1.4 and 1.9 million cars over a computer issue that might keep air bags from deploying and seat belts restraining passengers in a crash. The computer glitch has been linked to three deaths.

The automaker said the"occupant restraint control module" is the problem. The module works with a wire harness detecting frontal impacts and if malfunctioning, neither the airbags nor the seat belts would work.

Fiat Chrysler is recalling the 2010 midsize Chrysler Sebring, 2011 to 2014 midsize Chrysler 200, the 2010 to 2012 compact Dodge Caliber, the midsize Dodge Avenger, the Jeep Patriot and Jeep Compass.

"FCA US no longer uses the occupant restraint controllers or wire routing design found in the affected vehicles," the company said in a statement. A spokesman for Fiat Chrysler said the company would not disclose who had made the defective part.

It's the second recall this year for this specific type of device at Fiat Chrysler. In February the company recalled airbag controllers in 112,001 cars due to a problem with a desiccant – a substance added to keep its workings safe from moisture. That recall was related to an investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) into airbag controllers manufactured by Continental Automotive Systems.