DaimlerChrysler Says No Mechanical Defect

DaimlerChrysler says it can find no mechanical problems that would cause 1995-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokees to suddenly shift from park into reverse.

The auto maker’s assessment is part of a response, due Wednesday, to questions from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

NHTSA began an investigation in July, saying it has received 48 complaints of an “inadvertent rollaway in reverse” from owners of 1995-1998 Grand Cherokees.

No deaths have been reported, but the incidents have led to 32 crashes and 14 injuries, according to reports to the agency. Most of the incidents reportedly occurred while the sport-utility vehicles were idling with the gearshift in the park position.

In its response to questions from NHTSA, the auto maker said in a written statement it would “continue to explore whether ergonomic or other differences may affect the rate of complaint.”

Grand Cherokees have been equipped with a different transmission since the 1999 model year.

The auto maker said it is examining how the driver interacts with the vehicle. It says NHTSA has acknowledged that interaction is a critical factor in accidents such as those under investigation.