Airbags protect passengers during a collision or car accident. They work with seatbelts and save thousands of lives annually. However, if used or installed improperly, they can also cause injury and even death. That is why regulators issue an order for a recall when they discover defective airbags.
51 million units recalled
In a report last September 2024, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued a recall for airbags manufactured by ARC Automotive Inc. and Delphi Automated Systems LLC. Manufacturers such as GM, Stellantis, Volkswagen and Hyundai have used some of these defective airbags.
The recall was issued when NHTSA identified faulty airbags with ruptured inflators as the cause of at least nine injuries, including two deaths. This recall is reminiscent of the massive 100 million airbag recall of the now-defunct Takata Corp.
Check your vehicle
If you think the recall affects your vehicle, visit the NHTSA website and enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). You should be able to see if your car is part of the recall order. If it is, you should receive a letter informing you of a recall. However, letters sometimes go missing, so you should check the website personally. If the recall affects your vehicle, contact your dealer to get it repaired for free.
In case of an accident
If you have already been in an accident and discovered you had a faulty airbag, you may be entitled to compensation. Consider talking to a legal professional who can advise you on what to do next.