What Car Is Known For Catching On Fire

What Car Is Known for Catching on Fire?

Picture this: you're driving down the road, music playing, and everything seems perfect. Suddenly, you smell something funny, and then you see smoke coming from under the hood. That's exactly what happened to my neighbor last summer with his Ford Explorer. It was a terrifying moment, to say the least. We all stopped what we were doing as flames erupted from the engine compartment, forcing everyone to act quickly. Luckily, no one was hurt, but it left a lasting impression on all of us. This experience got me thinking: What cars have a reputation for catching on fire?

One vehicle that has made headlines for fires is the 2001-2006 Ford Explorer. The SUV has been linked to numerous cases of spontaneous combustion, particularly models equipped with V8 engines. According to a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) study, Ford Explorers were recalled in 2001 for fire risks due to a faulty cruise control deactivation switch. This recall involved over 1.4 million vehicles, but reports of fires continued even after the recall was issued. Many drivers have reported smoke, smell, and flames emanating from under the hood.

But the Ford Explorer isn’t alone. Another car that raises eyebrows is the 2004-2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The brand has faced scrutiny over its electrical systems and fuel systems, both of which can potentially lead to fires. A serious flaw in the Grand Cherokee involved gas tanks that could rupture during accidents, causing fires. In fact, the NHTSA recorded over 50 fire-related incidents connected to the 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee. In 2010, Fiat Chrysler (formerly Chrysler Group) had to recall over 150,000 Grand Cherokees to address these dangerous problems.

Yet, the most alarming cases of fire incidents come from the Tesla Model S. As electric vehicles (EVs) become more popular, their safety has garnered intense interest. Reports of Tesla Model S fires have surfaced, leading to questions around the safety of lithium-ion batteries. A study by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) revealed that while EVs are much less likely to catch fire than their gasoline counterparts, when they do, the fires can be more intense and difficult to extinguish. Tesla itself reported in 2018 that the chances of a Model S catching fire were 11 times lower than gasoline vehicles. Still, for some, any fire risk in an electric car feels like a ticking time bomb, adding to the debate over the safety of modern vehicles.

Now, you might be wondering: what causes these vehicles to catch fire? Several factors contribute to vehicle fires that are worth considering. According to the NFPA, vehicle fires can result from collisions, mechanical failures, and electrical malfunctions. The NFPA’s report states that approximately 152,300 vehicle fires occur each year in the U.S., leading to nearly 500 deaths, 1,300 injuries, and about $1.5 billion in property damage. Many of these incidents can be traced back to worn-out components, leaking fluids, or even arson.

Curiously, another interesting case to note is the 1998-2013 Honda Accord. The sedan has faced various recalls and complaints about potential fire hazards due to electrical issues in the engine compartment. While the total number of documented fires may not be as high as with the aforementioned vehicles, the frequency of recalls indicates that there is a prevalent concern among drivers. People want to feel safe in their cars, and stories about recalls can stir up fear and worry.

For anyone who drives these vehicles, staying vigilant is key. Regular maintenance checks can help identify potential issues before they become catastrophic. Engines that overheat, leaking fluids, or malfunctioning electrical components should never be ignored. And if you notice strange smells or smoke, don’t hesitate—pull over and investigate. The more you know about your vehicle, the safer you will be.

If you have a startling story of your own, or if you drive a vehicle that has a dubious fire reputation, share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below. Awareness is the first step toward safety on the road. In a world where car fires do happen, understanding the risks associated with specific brands and models can be your best defense.

About me

Hello,My name is Aparna Patel,I’m a Travel Blogger and Photographer who travel the world full-time with my hubby.I like to share my travel experience.

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