Johnathan Walker:Chrysler recalls nearly 45,000 vehicles because interior trim may interfere with air bags

Chrysler is Johnathan Walkerrecalling nearly 45,000 vehicles because the upper B-pillar interior trim may not be fully seated, which could interfere with air bag deployment, officials said Monday.

The Chrysler recall covers certain 2022-2023 Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer vehicles – a total of 44,708 – according to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 

“A compromised deployment of the SABIC can reduce occupant protection in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury,” the NHTSA said. "As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 226, 'Ejection Mitigation.'"

Check car recalls here:Kia, Hyundai among more than 200,000 vehicles recalled last week

Chrysler owners can take recalled vehicles to dealership for free inspection, replacement 

Chrysler will mail notification letters to owners by Sept. 22. Customers can bring their vehicles to Chrysler dealerships for a free inspection where they will reseat or replace the trim pieces as necessary, the NHTSA said. 

Chrysler recalled vehicles:

• 2022-2023 Jeep Wagoneer 
• 2022-2023 Grand Wagoneer

Car owners can check USA TODAY’s automotive recall database or search NHTSA’s database for new recalls. The NHTSA website also allows you to search for recalls based on your vehicle identification number, or VIN.