Takata Airbag Recall : In a recent development, General Motors took decisive action as it issued a recall encompassing approximately 900 vehicles across the globe. The cause of concern stems from the infamous Takata airbag inflators, notorious for their potential to detonate unexpectedly, putting drivers and passengers in grave jeopardy.
Among the affected vehicles, a notable 767 of them find themselves within the confines of the recall in question. Specifically, we see the 2013 Chevrolet Camaro, Sonic, Volt, and Buick Verano firmly placed within this list. It is noteworthy that 101 automobiles in Canada, including the Chevrolet TRAX and 46 foreign cars, are also implicated in this safety concern.
This recall follows a rather alarming incident in Brazil in May, where a 2013 Chevrolet Camaro experienced the detonation of its driver air bag inflator, as per documents from the esteemed National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
In response to such critical matters, the NHTSA has mandated vendors to promptly address the issue by offering complimentary repairs to the driver-side airbag sensors. Takata, a Japanese company that now lies in bankruptcy, has been implicated in creating countless defective airbags that have warranted recalls en masse. The NHTSA points out that these airbags could become highly volatile and explode upon extreme heat and humidity exposure.
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The tragic consequences of these faulty airbags have proven to be devastating, with 26 American lives lost and almost 400 individuals suffering injuries. Disturbingly, some victims have been left blinded or maimed, resulting in an unprecedentedly high toll of human suffering, marking this recall as the largest in automotive history.
General Motors had to bear a significant financial burden to address the alarming situation, with an expenditure of $1.2 billion dedicated to replacing Takata airbags in a staggering 7 million vehicles during 2020 – a testament to the magnitude of the issue at hand.
However, it is pertinent to note that before 2020, GM had remained steadfast in its stance, affirming that no recall was warranted during the preceding four years. Only after recalling 800,000 vehicles did the company assert that its thorough testing revealed the airbags in these new models, utilizing a different explosive, to be safe. Indeed, the airbags in question featured a distinct device, distinct from the one previously subjected to recall
.In light of these events, vehicle safety and regulatory bodies continue to closely monitor the situation closely, ensuring the utmost diligence in safeguarding the welfare of drivers and passengers alike
Our Reader’s Queries
What cars are in the Takata airbag recall?
Several vehicle models have been identified as being affected by potential issues. These include the 2003 Acura 3.2CL from Honda, the 2006-2013 Audi A3 from VW, and the 2008-2013 BMW 1 Series. Additionally, the 2007-2014 Cadillac Escalade, the 2007-2013 Chevrolet Avalanche, and the 2005-2015 Chrysler 300 are also on the list. Daimler Trucks North America’s Sterling Bullet and Daimler Vans USA LLC’s Sprinter are also among the affected vehicles. It is important for owners of these models to stay informed and take any necessary actions to ensure their safety.
How much will I get from the Takata airbag settlement?
If you’re wondering about your compensation entitlement, we’ve got the answer for you. As a participating group member, you can expect to receive $846.55 per vehicle as part of the settlement amount. In cases where multiple group members have registered for the same affected VIN, the payment will be divided equally among them.
Can I still get my Takata airbag replaced?
After verifying an open recall for your vehicle, it is crucial to schedule the repair with an authorized dealership that services your brand. These dealerships are the only ones authorized to replace your airbag for free. Fortunately, most automakers now have sufficient parts to replace any Takata airbag included in a recall.
What went wrong with the airbags made by Takata?
Experts have discovered that the Takata airbag’s propellant is the root cause of its life-threatening defect. The airbag’s inflation process involves the use of an ammonium nitrate compound, which lacks a drying agent. This flaw has been identified as the main culprit behind the airbag’s potential danger.