The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a warning that millions of vehicles in the U.S. may pose a significant safety risk due to defective air bag inflators. These inflators, manufactured by ARC Automotive Inc. and Delphi Automotive Systems LLC, could potentially rupture during deployment, endangering vehicle occupants with metal debris. The NHTSA’s decision underscores the ongoing threat posed by these inflators, which were installed in a wide range of vehicles, affecting millions of drivers and passengers nationwide.
Earlier reports have highlighted multiple incidents involving these faulty air bag inflators, leading to serious injuries and fatalities. Investigations into the matter began in 2015, following several reports of ruptures. Despite automaker objections, the NHTSA has reiterated its stance, urging a recall to mitigate the risk. Comparatively, previous safety recalls of similar magnitude have led to significant improvements in vehicle safety standards. The agency’s current determination aims to enforce compliance and ensure the safety of vehicle occupants.
Potential for Serious Harm
The recent supplemental initial decision by the NHTSA reveals that approximately 51 million of these inflators were manufactured and installed in around 49 million vehicles across the U.S. These inflators were integrated into air bag modules by five suppliers and used by 13 different manufacturers. The danger arises when these inflators rupture upon air bag deployment, sending metal shards into the vehicle’s cabin.
“These air bag inflators are at risk of rupturing when the vehicle’s air bag is commanded to deploy, causing metal debris to be forcefully ejected into the occupant compartment of the vehicle,” the NHTSA stated. “A rupturing air bag inflator poses an unreasonable risk of serious injury or death to vehicle occupants.”
Death and Injuries Reported
To date, seven people have sustained injuries, and one person has died due to these faulty air bag inflators in the United States. The NHTSA began its investigation into ARC and Delphi in 2015 after receiving initial reports of ruptures. In a recent hearing, the agency reiterated its call for a recall, despite auto manufacturers’ objections.
The NHTSA is giving automakers another 30 days to respond to its updated determination before it can mandate recalls formally. If enforced, this recall would become the second-largest in U.S. history, potentially covering vehicles produced from 2000 to early 2018. The manufacturers affected include BMW, Ford, General Motors, Hyundai, and other major brands.
Delphi Automotive, now part of Autoliv, produced about 11 million inflators through 2004 under a licensing deal with ARC, which manufactured the remaining 40 million. The urgency of addressing this issue is evident, as the deployment of these defective inflators could lead to catastrophic outcomes.
Addressing the risks associated with these air bag inflators is paramount. The potential recall could significantly impact the automotive industry, requiring manufacturers to replace or repair millions of air bag modules. Consumers are urged to stay informed about the status of their vehicles and take necessary actions to ensure their safety. This developing situation highlights the critical importance of vehicle safety regulations and the need for rigorous compliance to prevent future tragedies.
