Chrysler sues supplier to recoup recall costs

6/18/2008

DETROIT Chrysler LLC is proceding with its lawsuit against Canadian auto parts maker Magna International Inc. to recoup money it spent on a recall involving defective heated seats in minivans.

Chrysler recalled 161,500 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans from the 1999-2001 model years three years ago because the heating element in some of the seats overheated and burned through the fabric, Chrysler spokesman Mike Palese said.

He declined to reveal the amount Chrysler is seeking from Magna in the action filed in February, but said it is significant. He said Chrysler sued after exhausting all other options available in the normal course of business.