Faulty Takata airbags continue to pose a serious threat to drivers and passengers, prompting Ford Motor and Mazda to issue advisories regarding certain vehicles still affected by the defect. The National Highway Safety Administration has previously warned that these airbag inflators have the potential to explode, sending sharp metal fragments flying and causing severe or even fatal injuries.
In response to this ongoing issue, Ford is urging drivers with impacted vehicles to contact dealerships immediately for repairs. The recall includes a range of specific models, such as Ranger trucks, Mustang and GT sports cars, Fusion sedans, and some SUVs, including the popular Edge model. Globally, Ford estimates that approximately 765,600 airbag inflators, with about 374,300 in the U.S., remain affected by this issue.
To ensure the safety of its customers, Ford has been actively reaching out to inform them about these recalls. In fact, the company has made over 121 million outreach attempts in the United States alone. This proactive approach demonstrates Ford’s commitment to addressing the problem and protecting its customers.
Similarly, Mazda estimates that around 83,000 vehicles in the United States have been affected by the faulty Takata airbags. This includes models such as CX-7 crossovers and RX8 sports cars. The company joins Ford in taking action to address the issue and protect its customers.
It’s worth noting that this is not an isolated problem. In July, BMW also recalled approximately 394,000 vehicles in the United States due to the same issue. This serves as a reminder that the faulty Takata airbags have impacted numerous automakers and their customers.
The gravity of the situation becomes even more apparent when considering the number of deaths and injuries attributed to these defective airbags. Since 2009, there have been over 30 deaths linked to Takata airbags, with at least 26 of them occurring in the United States. Additionally, hundreds of injuries have been reported.
The global impact of this recall is staggering, with over 100 million vehicles equipped with Takata airbag inflators being recalled worldwide over the past decade. This widespread issue highlights the urgent need for automakers to address the problem and ensure the safety of their customers.
It’s worth noting that Takata, once the leading supplier of airbags, filed for bankruptcy in 2017 following the scandal. This serves as a reminder of the consequences that can result from overlooking or mishandling safety issues.
In conclusion, Ford Motor and Mazda are taking proactive steps to address the ongoing issue of faulty Takata airbags. By urging drivers to contact dealerships for repairs and actively reaching out to customers, these automakers are demonstrating their commitment to ensuring the safety of their vehicles. However, the gravity of the situation is evident in the number of deaths and injuries associated with the defective airbags, as well as the massive global recall that has affected over 100 million vehicles. This serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety and promptly addressing any potential risks to consumers.
