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68,000 Jeep Wranglers recalled due to fire hazard

Posted at 5:46 PM, May 21, 2012
and last updated 2012-05-21 19:23:39-04

(CNN) Thousands of Jeep Wranglers are being recalled due to a fire hazard.

Chrysler is recalling about 68,000 Jeep Wranglers in the United States for a problem that can lead to fires in some cases. Worldwide the recall extends to 87,000 Jeeps.

The recall affects 2010 model year Wranglers with automatic transmissions.

The problem is with a skid plate that’s located close to the vehicle’s catalytic converter that can trap debris.

Catalytic converters get extremely hot, and that heat can ignite the debris and cause a fire.

Chrysler has acknowledged at least 14 reports of fires so far.

Wranglers that were built in subsequent model years don’t have this problem, because Chrysler switched to lighter-weight skid bars, which don’t trap debris in the same way.

To fix the problem, Wrangler owners will be asked to bring their vehicles to a Jeep dealership to have the skid plate replaced with skid bars.

Owners will be notified as soon as parts are available to make the change.