Chrysler Bows to NHTSA, Will Recall 2.7 Million Jeeps

Chrysler Group LLC says it will recall 2.7 million Jeep SUVs to beef up the structure around their fuel tanks, as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has demanded.

NHTSA ordered the recall early this month. The agency says unsafe fuel tanks have led to at least 51 "fire-related deaths" and numerous injuries in 1993-2004 model Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2002-2007 Jeep Liberty SUVs.

Both models have fuel tanks mounted between the rear axle and bumper. Regulators say the placement is a design defect that makes the tanks vulnerable to rupturing and catching fire if the vehicle is struck from behind.

Chrysler initially defied NHTSA's request, insisting that the Jeeps are not defective and meet all federal safety standards. The company says its vehicles are no more likely to be involved in fiery rear-end fatal crashes than other cars and trucks, including many with fuel tanks mounted midship.

Chrysler reversed course unexpectedly today, the deadline for its formal response to NHTSA. The company says its dealers will inspect the SUVs and, where necessary, upgrade the rear structure of the Jeeps to better withstand crash forces in low-speed collisions.