(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.