Defect Involved

General Motors has decided that certain 1995 and 1996 4-Door Chevrolet Blazers, GMC Jimmys and Oldsmobile Bravadas may fail to conform to FMVSS 301; "Fuel System Integrity". In certain types of vehicle crashes, the prop shaft may penetrate the fuel tank, resulting in a fuel leak. If an ignition source were present, a vehicle fire could result. Although we previously had conducted several tests of these model vehicle with no fuel leakage, a recent similar test resulted in a hairline fracture of the fuel tank with leakage greater than the amount permitted under FMVSS 301. Consequently, we have developed additional shielding for the fuel tank on these vehicles, which can be added without removing or disassembling the fuel system. To prevent the possibility of this condition occurring, dealers are to install additional shielding for the fuel tank. This can be added without removing or disassembling the fuel system.