2010 Jeep Wrangler Recall Over Risk of Catching Fire
Chrysler has announced it will be recalling almost 68,000 Jeep Wranglers due to a potential fire risk.
The recall affects 2010 models equipped with automatic transmissions, according to a report filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The recall came after the NHTSA investigated the vehicles in March following eight consumer complaints about fires, The New York Times reports.
While most of the Jeeps were sold in America, the recall also touches the international market.
Wranglers sold in Canada and other parts the world were also included in the announcement. In total, Chrysler will be recalling nearly 87,000 vehicles.
The fire risk is due to a lack of "clearance between the exhaust catalyst and the automatic transmission skid place," the automaker said. Debris can collect in this area, creating the potential for fire.
So far no injuries have been reported, according to Chrysler. However, the company has received 14 complaints of fires connected to the debris issue.
Chrysler has described the recall as voluntary. However, under federal regulations, once a safety defect is detected, manufacturers must report it to the NHTSA within five days.
Safety defects are any problems found in a group of vehicles that pose a driving safety risk. It's pretty broad and can include everything from fire risks to cracked wheels and broken windshield wipers. Typically, manufacturers are required to repair or replace the vehicle or defective part. In some cases, a refund may also be issued.
Fortunately, manual transmission Jeep Wrangler owners don't appear to be affected by the recall so far. However, Wrangler drivers who don't drive stick may want to call Chrysler (1-800-853-1403) to see if their vehicle poses a fire risk.
Related Resources:
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Chrysler Recalls Jeep Wranglers that Could Catch Fire (The Wall Street Journal)
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Acura Recalls 56,000 TL Sedans Over Fire Risk (FindLaw's Common Law)