The latest Dodge Hornet recall affects 48,777 vehicles after rear seat belts were found capable of twisting during use, potentially preventing them from retracting or staying properly tight in a crash. The recall covers 40,386 Dodge Hornets and 8,391 Alfa Romeo Tonales.
Rear Seat Belt Problem Triggers Recall
According to the NHTSA document, certain rear seat belts in the outgoing Dodge Hornet and Alfa Romeo Tonale can become twisted during use. If that happens, the belt may not retract or remain tight against the occupant as intended.
In a crash, the problem could prevent the seat belt from properly holding an occupant in place, increasing the risk of injury. There is also no dashboard warning or obvious indication that the problem exists.
Which Hornet and Tonale Models Are Affected?
The recall covers Dodge Hornets built between August 31, 2022 and September 18, 2025. Alfa Romeo Tonales built between February 9, 2023 and November 26, 2025 are also included.
New seat belt retractors were installed after those production dates, addressing the issue in newer builds.
How the Seat Belt Issue Was Discovered
The problem first surfaced in April 2026, when FCA US notified Stellantis Europe about a possible seat belt retractor issue. After further investigation and several months of engineering work, the companies traced the problem to a design weakness that can occur under certain conditions.
By the end of July, FCA US had recorded 484 warranty claims related to the issue. No injuries or accidents had been reported in connection with the problem.
Recall Fix Calls for New Retractors
FCA US will address the Dodge Hornet recall by replacing the affected rear seat belt retractors with new ones.
A separate recall also covers 1,458 MOPAR rear outboard seat belt assemblies that may experience the same twisting problem. Affected assemblies will be inspected and, if installed on a vehicle, have the retractor replaced. Uninstalled assemblies will be subject to repurchase.
Owner Notifications Begin in September
Dealers are expected to receive information about the recall by August 13, 2026. Vehicle owners will begin receiving notifications by late September.
Owners will also be able to check their VIN for recall status starting August 13. Drivers of affected Hornet and Tonale vehicles should check their VIN when the system becomes available and follow FCA US instructions.
