What the NHTSA is looking for in its Jeep investigation

In a prior post this year, we noted that some safety advocates predicted that there would be more recalls in 2015 than in 2014, despite last year having the most recalls on record. With the continuing expansion of airbag recalls involving those manufactured by Takata, it appears that the prediction may eventually come true.

Another issue helping in that prediction is an investigation launched by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in to Jeep, the Fiat-Chrysler automaker known for its off-road vehicles.

Essentially, the NHTSA has received several complaints about the adaptive cruise control module in the Jeep Grand Cherokee. This module helps moderate cruise control and will slow the car down automatically if it discovers hazards on the road. This is done through tiny cameras that scan the area in front of the vehicle to discover any hazards (and other stopped or slowed vehicles) so that a driver can avoid a crash.

However, some Jeep owners are calling for changes to be made because the cruise control has been malfunctioning by slowing the car down even though there are no hazards in the road. This has created quite a bit of anxiety in Jeep owners.

While no injuries or accidents have been reported as of yet, the investigation could lead to a recall. If one is issued, Jeep dealers will have a continuing responsibility to inform consumers of defects that could lead to serious bodily harm. Additionally, they will have to take reasonable steps to correct the defect by honoring recall notices.