US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has upgraded an investigation into almost 387,000 Jeep Liberty [Cherokee for export] SUVs over a potential airbag problem, increasing the possibility of a recall.
The investigation of 2002 and 2003 models has been upgraded to to an engineering analysis, a step in a process that could lead to a recall if regulators determine there is a safety issue.
Go deeper with GlobalData
In two separate other NHTSA filings, Mazda is recalling more than 52,000 older Tribute SUVs for potential brake fluid leaks, and Mercedes-Benz has begun investigating consumer complaints of fuel smells that could be a result of a leak in about 8,000 older E55 AMG sedans and wagons.
The US-built Tribute is Mazda’s version of the Ford Escape [Maverick overseas]. The model line was also assembled in Thailand and Japan.
NHTSA said it had identified 87 reports of inadvertent driver or passenger front airbag deployment in the Liberty, resulting in 50 alleged injuries, including burns, cuts and bruises.
Of these, 42 involved the driver front airbag deploying without a crash, occurring at vehicle start-up and while driving on the road, according to NHTSA. The remaining 45 involved both the driver and passenger front airbags.
The regulator added that some drivers noted that the airbag warning light had illuminated just prior to airbag deployment.
Investigations by Chrysler have indicated a failure of an internal electronic chip that controls airbag deployment, possibly due to a voltage spike. The company said it is cooperating with the investigation.
Separately, Mazda is notifying owners of 52,390 Tributes from model years 2001 and 2002 about the potential brake fluid leaks that could come into contact with the anti-lock brake system module wiring harness. A spokesman said no injuries or accidents have been reported related to this issue.
In the case of a leak, corrosion could develop and lead to melting, smoking or fire, according NHTSA.
The Mercedes-Benz issue covers about 8,100 E55 AMG sedans and wagons in model years 2003-2006. NHTSA documents show that 20 consumers have complained about the petrol odour inside or outside of the car.
