Dangerous airbag recall makes history as largest auto recall in U.S. history

Nearly 50 million Takata airbags have been recalled as part of the most massive and complex auto recall in United States history, and it's expected around 20 million more will be added to the list.

Posted 8:53 p.m. Apr 18, 2018 — Updated 3:15 p.m. Jul 13, 2018

Monica Laliberte

, WRAL consumer reporter

RALEIGH, N.C. — Nearly 50 million Takata airbags have been recalled as part of the most massive and complex auto recall in United States history, and it's expected around 20 million more will be added to the list.

The recall said the defective inflators can turn them into a miniature shrapnel bomb, and only around half of the airbags have been replaced.

Officials said it’s extremely alarming, considering the injuries and deaths connected to the airbags.

The airbags are in cars, trucks and SUVs from 19 different automakers. The recall has been going on for years, dating back to 2008.

Consumer recall information

Initially, many owners had trouble getting replacement airbags, but now the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said supply problems are over and owners need to act.

Faulty inflators in Takata airbags have led to 15 deaths and hundreds of injuries in the United States alone. More than 26 million airbags still need to be replaced.

David Friedman, the Consumers Union policy director, said the recall is not something car owners can ignore.

"Manufacturers need to do more to help people understand how deadly these airbags are. But at the end of the day, it's your responsibility to get your car fixed right away, if it's got one of these defective Takata airbags," Friedman said.

It's easy to find out if your vehicle is part of the recall. Find your VIN number on the lower left hand side of your windshield, or on your door jamb. Type it into NHTSA's website, and it will instantly let you know if your vehicle is on the list.

Dangerous airbag recall makes history as largest auto recall in U.S. history

If your vehicle is on the list, owners should contact the dealer to arrange a free replacement as soon as possible.

Ford and Mazda have both issued warnings to immediately stop driving the 2006 Ford Ranger and Mazda–B Series pick-up trucks and have the vehicles towed to the dealership to replace the airbags.

The airbags in certain Honda and Acura models, from 2001, 2002 and 2003 also show a far higher risk of exploding in a crash.

It is vital to check and recheck vehicles, as the recalls will be issued through December 2019.

Suggest A Correction