Chrysler to fix Jeeps faster than predicted

Gas tanks behind rear axles can rupture in rear collisions

2014 Jeep Cherokee Limited This undated publicity photo provided by the Chrysler Group LLC shows the all-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee Limited. The new Cherokee has a dramatic look that makes one wonder if it's a Jeep. It ditches the traditional boxy look for a more aerodynamic style and replaces the brand's round headlights with sharply angled slits. It has a much smaller grille. (AP Photo/Chrysler Group LLC) (Uncredited)

By Don Bishop

Chrysler says it can fix its recalled Jeep SUVs far faster than U.S. safety regulators have predicted.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has accused Chrysler of moving too slowly to repair about 2.7 million older Jeep Grand Cherokees and Liberty SUVs in a recall announced more than a year ago.

They have gas tanks behind the rear axles that can rupture in rear collisions, leak fuel and cause fires.

The remedy is to install a trailer hitch to protect the tanks in low-speed collisions.