Fiat Chrysler orders recall of 1.4m vehicles after deaths

A recall of 1.4m cars has been announced by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles as problems with the deployment of air bags has been linked with three deaths and five injuries.

Various models of Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Lancia cars will be brought back to dealers to have the issue fixed, the company says.

While the recalls are not ready to proceed right away, the car manufacturer says it hopes to be able to provide a solution sooner rather than later.

"We're finalising the remedy and customers will be advised when they may schedule service," Fiat Chrysler spokesman Eric Mayne said. He gave no details about the accidents that led to the deaths.

Another member of the "Big Three" of US carmakers, General Motors, recalled 4.3m vehicles last week with similar issues with the likes of protective parts such as air bags and seat belts.

Fiat's malfunction comes as a result of its "occupational restraint controller", a device which is used to control air bags and automatic seat-belt tighteners in crashes.

"FCA US no longer uses the occupant restraint controllers or wire routing design found in the affected vehicles," Fiat said in a statement.