19th April, 2012
Chrysler Group is taking up issues with news accounts, which say that authorities in US are expanding its investigation into fires in 2010 Jeep Wranglers.
And Chrysler says it just not true. Sure, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has asked Chrysler for data on other model years of Wranglers, from 2007 to this year.
But they are apparently using the data as a point of reference to look for problems in the 2010, not for an expanded investigation, according to the automaker.
“The scope of NHTSA’s official investigation of the Jeep Wrangler has not been expanded beyond the 2010 model year,” Chrysler says flatly in a statement. Chrysler, reached for comment, won’t disclose what it considers the primary culprit that has led to 23 instances in which owners complained of fires. For now, the automaker insinuates the problem may not turn out to be entirely its own fault:
Chrysler Group is aware of a small number of incidents involving engine compartment fires in 2010 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. Vehicle fires are very complex and can occur for a number of reasons that have nothing to do with the vehicle itself.
Poor maintenance, improper vehicle use or installation of aftermarket equipment often are causes of vehicle fires. Chrysler continues to stand by the Wrangler, one of its most important and distinctive — not to mention fun — products. It says the 2010 Jeep Wrangler “meets or exceeds all applicable federal safety standards and has an excellent safety record.