Aside from Dieselgate, another auto industry scandal has continued to put drivers in danger years after it was first brought to life: The Takata airbag recall. A range of faulty airbags produced by Takata have caused the deaths of 16 Americans — and millions of cars on the road may still have these airbags installed. To protect the public, the Association of Global Automakers has started a campaign that makes consumers aware of the free safety recall. If your car was manufactured between 2000 and 2018, you’ll want to check your VIN as soon as possible.
Automakers join forces with Hollywood to raise awareness of airbag recall
The Takata airbag recall is currently the largest in U.S. history, with over 41 million vehicles and 34 auto brands affected by defective airbags. That means 1 in 6 cars on the road today are in danger. To raise awareness, the Association of Global Automakers has put created a promotional website with the help of acclaimed actor Morgan Freeman. Together, they’ve put together a video where Mr. Freeman explains the recall, as well as the nature of the airbag defect.
As he explains, the problem lies in a part inside the airbag that can potentially shatter when the airbag deploys. This is not unlike the effect of a grenade, and the shrapnel produced by the defective airbag can cause serious injury and even death. To date, 16 Americans have died from Takata airbags, and hundreds have reported serious injuries as well. The airbag risks are present no matter what causes the system to deploy, which underscores the urgency for consumers to check if their cars are eligible. Repairs under the recall are covered free of charge, and can be performed at your auto brand’s local dealership if they offer service.
How can I find out if I’m eligible for the Takata airbag recall?
Thousands of drivers have already had their airbags serviced and replaced under the recall — and it’s not too late for you to do so as well. To qualify, you’ll need to check if your VIN is covered. Thankfully, the Association of Global Automakers has put together a website where users can get more information on the recall process and check if their car is affected. Click or tap here to visit the SafeAirBags information page. On this page, you’ll see a box on the left where you can enter your VIN. Type it here, complete the Captcha and click Check VIN to continue. Keep in mind not every automaker is affected by the recall. To save you time, here is the complete list of automakers that qualify:
AcuraAudiBMWCadillacChevroletChryslerDaimler TrucksDaimler VansDodgeDodge RAMFerrariFordGMCHondaInfinitiJaguarJeepLand RoverLexusLincolnMazdaMercedes-BenzMercuryMitsubishiNissanPontiacSaabSaturnScionSubaruTeslaToyotaVolkswagen
If your car’s brand is missing from this list, you’re probably in the clear. If you’re the owner of a Honda, though, it’s important to know the majority of cases involving defective Takata airbags occurred in Honda branded vehicles. You should check your VIN as soon as possible and, if eligible, prioritize your repair. As bad as the danger is from faulty parts like airbags, new threats like car hacking remain ever-present on the horizon. Click or tap to see why your car may be at risk for cyberattacks.
