NHTSA Ends Investigation Into Jeep Gas Tank Fires
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has ended its investigation into 2.7 million Jeep SUVs for gas tank fires without demanding a new recall.
“The agency has been in close communication with Chrysler and has no reservations at this time with their announced actions to move forward,” NHTSA said in a statement.
The American automaker had agreed to recall 1.56 million SUVs in June 2013 but stated that the fix wouldn’t address all the concerns raised by NHTSA. The investigation, which began in 2010, looked into the potential fire hazard with Jeep gas tanks. Chrysler has been adamant that its vehicles are safe and are at no higher risk than any other SUV on the road.
SEE ALSO: Chrysler Refuses to Recall 2.7 Million Jeep SUVs
“Consumers should have their vehicles serviced promptly once they receive final notification from Chrysler. NHTSA will continue to monitor consumer outreach as the recall process continues.”
The June 2013 recall has Chrysler installing trailer hitches that would protect the gas tank to 1992-1998 Grand Cherokees and 2002-2007 Jeep Liberty vehicles. NHTSA has cited reports of 51 deaths in rear-end accidents in which older Jeep gas tanks leaked and caught fire.
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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