The Center for Auto Safety (CAS) is making news by demanding that the government recall 2.2 million Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles from the 1993 to 2004 model years. They are going so far as to call it the "most dangerous vehicle on the road today" because of a defective fuel tank design that makes the SUV 4x more likely to catch fire after a rear collision than other similar SUVs.

Defective Gas Tank Design

The plastic gas tank in question is located behind the rear axle and hangs lower than most other tanks. Because of the "off-road capabilities" that Jeep is famous for, the vehicle has a high clearance. The combination of all these factors means it is actually possible for some cars to slip under the bumper and hit the gas tank directly during a rear collision. It goes without saying, but when gas tanks rupture they tend to burst into flames.

The CAS says that at least 55 people have died in crashes were fire was the primary cause of death. They have been keeping track of fatal fire crashes in 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokees and made that data accessible on their website.

The New Ford Pinto?

In the late 1970's the Ford Pinto was made famous for tales of exploding into flames. Clearly that is not the type of publicity Chrysler, parent company of Jeep, wants to be receiving for the Grand Cherokee. In an ABC news report the automaker said that accidents leading to fires are "very rare" and that the popular SUV meets all government safety standards and regulations. When asked why Chrysler changed the design of their Grand Cherokee in 2005 by moving the gas tank to the front of the rear axle, they simply said it that was to make more cargo room and didn't have anything to do with safety concerns.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is currently investigating the matter and we will let you know if they issue a recall.

Possible Recourse & Actions You Can Take

There's strength in numbers and if this problem concerns you we urge you to sign the Center For Auto Safety's Defect Petition.

Let Your Voice Be Heard

This step is crucial. Don't just complain on forums; The sites below actually manage your complaint in ways that allow useful statistics and they report dangerous trends to the authorities. Law firms often contact these sites for help with Class Action lawsuits. Make sure to file your complaint on all three sites, we can't stress that enough.

1. Step 1: File Your Complaint at CarComplaints.com

   CarComplaints.com is a free resource dedicated to uncovering car problem trends and informing the consumer. File Your Complaint

2. Step 2: Notify the Center for Auto Safety

   The Center for Auto Safety is an organization that informs consumers about auto safety issues. Notify the CAS

3. Step 3: Report a Safety Concern to the NHTSA

   The NHTSA directs highway safety and has the authority to force recalls to be issued following investigations. Report Your Concern

Have Your Say

Let us know if you've experienced this problem, know of a potential fix or just want to voice how frustrated you are: