Is There Risk of Cargo Bag Catching Fire if Near Exhaust Pipes

Published 12/10/2018

Question:

We recently purchased a PVC cargo bag to use with the cargo carrier we bought for our 2014 Ford Edge. My husband is worried about the bag catching on fire as it is very close to our exhaust pipes. Are these bags fire proof and safe to use with our car?

asked by: Pamela S

Expert Reply:

PVC cargo bags like the etrailer part # e98990 that you referenced when really close to exhaust pipes normally would only melt if they got too hot. Catching on fire would not be likely at all unless maybe you had something flammable in the bag. For situations like yours we normally recommend a carrier with a rise built into the shank to help get the platform above the exhaust pipes like the Reese part # 63153 which has a rise built into the shank of 2-1/2 inches.

expert reply by: Jameson C