July 13, 2004
Federal safety regulators are investigating a series of audio-system fires in 2002-model Chrysler minivans, raising the possibility that more than 400,000 of the vehicles could face a recall.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's inquiry includes Dodge Caravan, Plymouth and Chrysler Voyager and Chrysler Town & Country minivans. Three fires have been reported, including one in which a minivan was destroyed, NHTSA said.
The fires occurred in the summer when the vehicles were being driven and the radio was on, the agency said.
The Caravan is the top-selling minivan in the U.S.
Some 2002 Caravans were recalled on four previous occasions to repair the fuel system, replace the fuel filter, provide child safety-seat information and replace running boards.
