Ford & Mazda Issue Urgent Advisories Over Takata Airbag Dangers
August 15th, 2024
Ford Motor Company and Mazda Motor Corporation have issued urgent “Do Not Drive” advisories for certain vehicles still equipped with faulty Takata airbags. This comes after warnings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that these defective airbags could explode, sending dangerous metal fragments into the vehicle’s cabin and causing severe or even fatal injuries.
The Takata airbag recall, the largest in automotive history, has already affected millions of vehicles worldwide, and despite ongoing efforts, many cars remain unrepaired. Ford and Mazda have emphasized the critical importance of replacing these airbags immediately to prevent further tragedies.
The vehicles in question include older models from both Ford and Mazda, with airbag inflators identified as particularly dangerous. Both companies are urging owners of these vehicles to stop driving them immediately and to take advantage of free towing services to get the repairs done. Ford and Mazda are also offering loaner vehicles to affected owners while their cars are being serviced.
The recalls have been ongoing for years, but this recent advisory underscores the continued risk posed by unrepaired vehicles. The companies are working closely with dealerships to expedite repairs and ensure that all affected vehicles are made safe as quickly as possible.
The Takata recall has been a significant challenge for the automotive industry, affecting nearly every major car manufacturer. The defective airbags, which were installed in millions of vehicles globally, have led to at least 25 deaths in the United States alone. The recall process has been complicated by the sheer scale of the issue and the difficulty in tracking down and repairing every affected vehicle.
Ford and Mazda’s latest advisory highlights the ongoing danger and the need for immediate action by vehicle owners who have not yet responded to previous recall notices. The NHTSA has been vocal in urging drivers to take these recalls seriously, as the risk of airbag failure increases with time, particularly in regions with high humidity.
Owners of the affected Ford and Mazda vehicles are advised to check their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the NHTSA’s recall website or through their vehicle manufacturer’s website to determine if their car is included in the advisory. If so, they should contact their nearest dealership to arrange for repairs as soon as possible.
This advisory serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing recall notices promptly to ensure the safety of drivers and passengers alike.