Chrysler Group is offering 10,000 owners of 2007 Dodge Calibers free inspection and repair, if needed, of the accelerator pedal, after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened a preliminary investigation of sticking pedals based on five complaints.  It's a similar problem -- involving a pedal module from the same supplier, says NHTSA -- that led to Toyota's recall of 2.3 million vehicles for possible sticking pedals. Both are linked to modules made by CTS of Elkhart, Ind.  Chrysler's inspection program is short of an official safety recall, though NHTSA could make it one if results of its investigation determine it is a safety defect or it wants Chrysler to cover more vehicles. Unlike the Toyota models, the Caliber is equipped with a brake override systems designed to cut off fuel if both the accelerator and brake pedals are pressed.  More details from colleague Justin Hyde of the Detroit Free Press:  NHTSA said its preliminary probe would cover 161,000 Calibers, but Chrysler said its review of the complaints and warranty data show the problem affects only models built during March and April 2006.  Chrysler said the problem "appears to be a supplier manufacturing concern, which is mechanical in nature and not a design or electronic issue."  While none of the complaints reports any crashes or injuries, one owner said the vehicle hit 90 m.p.h., while another reported surging to 75 m.p.h. before the driver could slow down by pulling the pedal back by hand.  In four of the complaints, owners reported finding metal bushings -- parts from the module -- on the floor of their vehicles; NHTSA said without the bushings, "the pedal arm can become misaligned and prevent it from returning to the idle position."  Toyota said the same problem was one of two main causes of sudden acceleration in its vehicles. The automaker's delay in launching a recall for the problem has spurred U.S. lawmakers to propose tough new safety rules and powers for NHTSA, including requiring brake override systems and no limits on fines.  Chrysler said it would cooperate fully with NHTSA. The preliminary probe is the first legal step toward a recall, which most automakers issue before NHTSA has to legally order.  Dodge Caliber owners with questions about their vehicles can contact Chrysler at 800-992-1997.  To report corrections and clarifications, contact Standards Editor  . For publication consideration in the newspaper, send comments to  . Include name, phone number, city and state for verification. To view our corrections, go to
2007 Dodge Caliber also sticky pedal issue with part from CTS  - Drive On: A conversation about the cars and trucks we drive - USATODAY.com