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newsrel -- ARB settles with the Chrysler Group for $37,000

Posted: 21 Dec 2009 11:40:56
Any product that affects the emission characteristics of a
vehicle must be certified by ARB before it may be sold in
California. 

Release 09-114
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 21, 2009
	  	  	
Karen Caesar
626-575-6728
www.arb.ca.gov

ARB settles with the Chrysler Group for $37,000
Company cited for distributing uncertified equipment through its
dealers

SACRAMENTO - The Air Resources Board has fined Chrysler Group
$37,000 for selling and installing aftermarket catalytic
converters that fail to meet California's strict requirements for
emission control equipment.

California's aftermarket catalytic converter regulations require
that ARB certify all catalytic converters advertised, sold,
offered for sale or installed in the state. Chrysler distributed
its "Valueline" converters, which are less expensive than the
original equipment, without obtaining ARB certification to
dealers throughout the state between Jan. 1 and June 1.

"We commend Chrysler for acting swiftly to correct this
problem," said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. "But while the
company worked cooperatively with us, we still are obligated to
enforce state law and ensure that parts used for emission repairs
meet ARB standards. Poor quality parts can raise smog-forming
emissions, which can put public health in jeopardy."

Chrysler has already established procedures to minimize future
problems. The company removed the remaining uncertified
converters from the marketplace and has set up a program to
recall and replace all of the converters that were sold and
installed on vehicles in the state. In addition, Chrysler agreed
to stop advertising, selling and installing aftermarket catalytic
converters in California unless they are approved by the ARB.

All penalties will be paid to the California Air Pollution
Control Fund which supports projects and research to improve the
State's air quality.

California's air quality measures are in place to prevent
excessive emissions that can negatively affect public health.
Excess automobile emissions can lead to smog, which in turn can
cause difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, coughs,
heightened asthma rates, cardiopulmonary ailments and premature
deaths.

The Air Resources Board is a department of the California
Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and
protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through
effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and
considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air
pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain
health based air quality standards.

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