Investigation PE86072: Vehicles

Status

CLOSED

Opened

Aug 6, 1986

Closed

Nov 17, 1986

Model years

—

Subject

Underdash fires

Summary

Summary of information from manufacturer:ford provided 28 ownercomplaints which allege in-dash fires.there were no recalls or servicebulletins issued by ford relating to the alleged problem.ford doesnot believe that a safety-related defect exists within the subject model.analysis:a review was conducted of the 35 fire complaints. All appearto be electrical in nature, originating in the inner-dash wiring area,with no pre-warning to the vehicle operator of the impending fire otherthan smoke entering the vehicle through the vent openings.it issuggested that further information be requested from the manufacturerregarding this vehicle's electrical/wiring system.this should includequestions about current capacity and overload protection systems.proposed action:upgrade this preliminary evaluation to an engineeringanalysis.===

An NHTSA investigation looks into whether a safety defect exists. Opening one is not a finding. Outcomes can include a recall, closure without action, or further inquiry.