So much for the Chrysler Group’s tough stance against the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) after the agency recommended the recall of some 2.7 million Jeep Grand Cherokee and Liberty because the rear-mounted fuel tanks performed poorly in rear-end collisions.
On June 4, the Detroit carmaker issued a statement, in which it said: “The company [Chrysler Group] does not agree with NHTSA’s conclusions and does not intend to recall the vehicles cited in the investigation. The subject vehicles are safe and are not defective.”
Today, however, Chrysler reversed its decision and said that it will comply with the NHTSA’s recall request.
“Chrysler Group LLC and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have resolved their differences with respect to NHTSA’s request to recall 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2002-07 Jeep Liberty vehicles,” said the Detroit company.
“As a result of the agreement, Chrysler Group will conduct a voluntary campaign with respect to the vehicles in question that, in addition to a visual inspection of the vehicle will, if necessary, provide an upgrade to the rear structure of the vehicle to better manage crash forces in low-speed impacts. “
Despite adhering to NHTSA’s request, Chrysler argued that the recalled vehicles remain safe.
“Chrysler Group’s analysis of the data confirms that these vehicles are not defective and are among the safest in the peer group. Nonetheless, Chrysler Group recognizes that this matter has raised concerns for its customers and wants to take further steps, in coordination with NHTSA, to provide additional measures to supplement the safety of its vehicles,” said the company.
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