Takata added another 3.3 million airbag inflators to the continuously expanding recall, making it the largest of its kind in the United States of America.
According to a report published by DetroitFreePress, the latest action revolves around the faulty frontal airbags in certain 2009, 2010, and 2013 vehicles made by a variety of car brands.
The list of automakers includes Audi, BMW, Daimler Vans, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Jaguar Land Rover, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Subaru, and Tesla. The exact models will be announced later this month, in the paperwork submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Takata’s faulty airbag inflators include ammonium nitrate, a chemical used to create a small explosion that fills the airbags quickly in the event of a crash. However, it’s known that when exposed to high temperatures and humidity, the chemical deteriorates, causing the metal canister to blow apart and spreading shrapnel into the cabin.
So far, at least 180 people have been injured by the metal bits worldwide, and more than 20 have lost their lives.
The NHTSA continues to monitor the automakers’ repairs progress, but even though Takata recalls originally began back in 2001, many companies have been slow to replace the airbag inflators.
A report published by an independent monitor, quoted by DetroitFreePress, states that 43.1 million inflators had been recalled until September 15, 2017, out of which only 18.5 million had been replaced, which accounts for 43 percent.
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