Feds Probe 2006-'07 Chevrolet Trailblazer for Fire Risk

Just the Facts:

• The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened a probe into an estimated 309,423 2006-'07 Chevrolet Trailblazers because of complaints of driver door fires.
• NHTSA says it is looking into melting and/or burning of the driver's master power window switch and related electrical components in the Trailblazers. Some of the fires occurred while the vehicle was in operation, said NHTSA.
• GM told Inside Line that its preliminary review of the alleged defect in the 2006-'07 Trailblazers shows no injuries.

WASHINGTON — The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened a probe into an estimated 309,423 2006-'07 Chevrolet Trailblazers because of complaints of driver door fires.

NHTSA says it is looking into melting and/or burning of the driver's master power window switch and related electrical components in the Trailblazers. Some of the fires occurred while the vehicle was in operation, said NHTSA.

"Several of the complaints have led to driver door fires, including some that occurred while the vehicle was in operation and during periods where the vehicle was left unattended," said NHTSA in its defect investigations summary.

NHTSA has received 12 consumer complaints about the 2006-'07 Trailblazers in this case, as well as manufacturer field reports.

General Motors told Inside Line late Monday that it is cooperating with the investigation.

"GM's preliminary review of data shows no injuries," wrote Alan Adler, a GM spokesman, in response to an e-mailed query from Inside Line. "GM believes the condition is restricted to these two model years because of a parts change made for the 2006 model year that lasted through the end of the 2007 model year."

Such an investigation can sometimes lead to a vehicle recall.

Inside Line says: If you own a 2006-'07 Chevrolet Trailblazer, be aware that a federal safety investigation is in the works.