A string of consumer complaints has led the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to begin an investigation into 2006 to 2007 Chevrolet Trailblazers for fires in the driver’s side door. According to The Los Angeles Times, fires have occurred in the power window switch and related electrical components in the driver’s side door.
So far, NHTSA has received 12 complaints of smoke or fire in the Trailblazers, but fortunately none of the cars were destroyed and no one was injured. However, the fires have led to door parts being melted and seats singed. These incidents have been reported as occurring when the vehicle was moving, as well as when the engine was shut off and the vehicle was unattended. The problem is believed to be related to a switch part or door configuration limited to the 2006-2007 Trailblazers.
Currently, NHTSA is investigating approximately 309,000 vehicles, but has not issued a recall as the problem has not been diagnosed yet. Additionally, NHTSA has opened a similar investigation into fire problems with 2007 Toyota Camry sedan and RAV4 SUVs, which total more than 830,000 vehicles. The agency is currently investigating if Toyota and GM used power window switches from the same manufacturer and if there are any other vehicles which use the same switches.
When a vehicle has a defect that cannot be repaired after a reasonable number of tries, you may be entitled to lemon law protection and receive either a replacement vehicle or your money back. If you find yourself in this position Los Angeles lemon law lawyer Howard D. Silver can help. For more information, call the Law Offices of Howard D. Silver today at (866) 49-LEMON for assistance.
