Case Study: 1999 Pontiac Grand Am

Summary

 

  • Fuel: Power steering fluid likely
    •     Gasoline, coolant, electrical possible
  • Ignition: Hot exhaust manifold likely
  • Propagation time: Extinguished within 9-12 minutes without spread to the interior

 

Witness statements suggest a power steering failure occurred; smoke was noticed immediately after power steering malfunction and fire was observed within three minutes thereafter. Physical evidence showed the fire was concentrated behind the engine and that it initiated low and likely at the shielded exhaust manifold. This was consistent with a breach in a power steering hose, though fire damage to the hoses prevented confirmation. Other possible fuels included coolant and gasoline, though they were considered to be less likely because they were higher in the engine compartment and no driveability problems were noticed other than the loss of power steering.