While the above discussion between fictional characters Fred and Ethel never really happened, it sure could have. The Associated Press is reporting that the federal government is expanding an investigation into front suspension upper ball joint separations on 2002-2003 Jeep Liberty 4x4 models.

Chrysler has reportedly received 74 complaints about the problem and knows of five incidents occurring at speeds over 40mph. Miraculously, no one has been injured in any of the resulting accidents.

The wonderment of this miracle is especially apparent when you realize that ball joint separation can cause a severe loss of vehicle control.

This isn’t the first time the Jeep Liberty has been afflicted with front suspension issues. Chrysler recalled more than 800,000 2002-2006 Libertys two years ago to fix a problem with the lower ball joints. Apparently they too could suffer from “excessive wear and looseness.” Would you have much faith in your vehicle if you were told your front suspension was prone to “excessive wear and looseness?”

That last question is probably the most important one in this recall scenario. Chrysler can’t afford to continue to be seen as a low-quality manufacturer what with such intense competition from rivals at Toyota, Honda, and even Ford and GM. Nothing shakes the confidence of an owner like having to return to the dealer on myriad occasions for recalls.

While there is as of yet no fix for the upper ball joint problem, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating what needs to be done.

Our take? Let’s hope the engineers at Chrysler are also hard at work on a redesigned or at least strengthened upper ball joint. Don’t keep Fred and Ethel waiting too long boys or they might just trade that Liberty in on a new Toyota RAV-4!