Takata Airbag Recall Creates Huge Problems for Consumers

It is estimated that almost 8 million cars made by 10 different automakers are equiped with defective Takata airbags, and they could present a serious threat to the safety of you and your family.

The recall of Takata airbags is turning out to be the largest automotive recall in history and a huge problem for automakers and consumers. The federal government is now telling automakers to recall vehicles that contain the driver’s side airbags manufactured by Takata Corp. The airbags are exploding with excessive force and shoot plastic pieces into the passenger compartment causing deaths and many severe injuries.

The latest recall urged by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (“NHTSA”) expands the prior regional recalls which were mainly states with high humidity. Takata’s claims that the recall is caused by high humidity have not been established and the real problem has not been identified.

NHTSA’s expanded recall affects millions of vehicles made by Ford, Honda, Chrysler, Mazda, and BMW, from model years 2008 or earlier. The manufacturing defect dates back to 2000. Lawsuits allege Takata knew about the defects as early as 2001 when a recall notice was issued related to exploding airbags in Isuzu vehicles.

Many investigations are under way, including a U.S. criminial investivation over the defective airbags that have been linked to at least five deaths. Takata has been ordered to turn over documents related to the company’s knowledge of the airbag defects. Several class actions have also been filed.

The recall affects 7.8 million cars and trucks manufactured by 10 automakers. You can determine if your car is on the list by searching the list on the NHTSA website and by using your VIN number.

Consumers can also call the NHTSA Consumer Hotline with questions: 1.888.327.4236.

For more detailed information about the recall visit the Consumer Reports information page.

Bellas & Wachowski Attorneys at Law is working with others to investigate the defective Takata airbags and determine the reason for the failures. Lawsuits have been filed against Takata and more complaints are expected.