Chrysler refuses National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) request for a recall of 2.7 million SUVs. Chrysler's rebuff represents the first time an automaker challenged the safety agency since 1996.
According to the NHTSA, the gas tank design used for the 1993 to 2004 model Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2002 to 2007 Jeep Liberty are deemed too unsafe as the tank is located behind the rear axle. According to NHTSA, the design is extremely vulnerable in the event of a severe rear impact.
While the logic behind NHTSA's request is valid, Chrysler claims that its design is commonly accepted among many other vehicles from other automakers. What's more, fatal Jeep accidents that involved a tank puncture were all high-speed, high-energy accidents. A different design would not have made a difference in preserving life. In particular, Chrysler referenced a deadly accident involving a tractor trailer slamming into a stationary Jeep Grand Cherokee at 65 mph.
"We believe NHTSA's initial conclusions are based on an incomplete analysis of the underlying data, and we are committed to continue working with the agency to resolve this disagreement," said a statement from Chrysler.
From the NHTSA's stand point, there have been 201 fire crashes with 285 deaths involving the Jeep Grand Cherokee, and 36 accidents resulting in 53 deaths involving the Liberty.
According to the Center for Auto Safety, the estimated cost of the recall will cost Chrysler no more than $300 million to install each vehcile with a 3 millimeter steel skid, a fuel tank check valve and better fuel filler hose and address the problem.
