(a) Compliance investigation priorities are reviewed annually and are set according to the following criteria:
- (1) Prior compliance test data;
- (2) Accident data;
- (3) Engineering analysis of vehicle and equipment designs;
- (4) Consumer complaints; and
- (5) Market share.
- (b) Defects inputs are reviewed periodically by an appropriate panel of engineers in consultation with the Office of Chief Counsel to determine whether a formal investigation should be opened by the Office of Defects Investigation.