NHTSA Complaint #10168279 — 2000 DODGE STRATUS

DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE WHILE PARKED IN A PARKING LOT. THE CONTACT NOTICED A SMELL OF BURNT PLASTIC INSIDE THE VEHICLE AND THE POWER DOOR LOCKS STOPPED WORKING PRIOR TO THE INCIDENT. THE CONTACT WENT TO SCHOOL AND RETURNED TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE A COUPLE HOURS LATER. THE RADIO DID NOT TURN ON AND WHITE SMOKE WAS NOTICED COMING FROM THE POWER MIRROR CONTROLS. A 6 INCH FLAME ERUPTED 2-3 MINS LATER. THE CONTACT POURED WATER ON THE FLAME NEAR THE POWER MIRROR CONTROLS, WHICH EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. THE FIRE OR POLICE DEPARTMENT WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED BUT OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE, AND REFUSED TO TAKE A SAFETY COMPLAINT.