US agency says Fiat Chrysler didn't move quickly enough recalls, cites widespread problems

A top U.S. auto safety regulator says that Fiat Chrysler failed to provide timely and accurate recall information to her agency and that customers also have problems getting accurate information.

Jennifer Timian, acting director of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's defect investigation office, made the remarks Thursday to start a public hearing on the company's recall performance.

She says the problems are widespread and involve slow response to vehicle defects that have caused deaths and injuries.

The agency called the rare hearing to listen to evidence that Fiat Chrysler misbehaved on 23 recalls involving more than 11 million vehicles. NHTSA alleges that the company didn't notify car owners quickly enough, failed to make replacement parts or repairs fast enough, and didn't file paperwork on time in numerous instances.