We're sure you've heard of the Takata airbag recall that's been in the news since 2013. The nationwide recall of affected cars is ongoing, meaning there are thousands of people out there driving vehicles that pose a threat to their safety. Owners of affected vehicles need to take immediate action and get their car repaired. And don't worry, doing so is free.
Out west, a community organization named Airbag Recall: Southern California has been formed. They're taking the time to educate consumers across the Southern California region and also helping owners of affected vehicles schedule repairs.
According to that group, more than one million defective Takata airbag inflators remain unrepaired in Southern California alone! Think of how many more vehicles are out there if that's how many there are in just that region.
Airbag Recall: Southern California's message is simple: fix it, don't risk it. Because repairs are free, and the danger the defective inflators represent, owners need to step up and seek repair immediately so innocent lives are not taken.
The Takata Airbag Recall
Ordered in 2014 by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Takata airbag recall is the largest auto safety recall in U.S. History. The NHTSA estimates that nearly 70 million inflators in about 42 million vehicles from as many as 19 automakers are, or will be, under recall in the U.S. by 2020.
The reason for the recall is that the Takata airbag inflators are defective. Upon deployment, they can blast shrapnel into a vehicle, threatening the lives of passengers. Tragically, the inflators have been linked to at least 16 deaths worldwide, 11 of which have happened in the United States. Approximately 180 more Americans have reported serious injuries, as well.
The worst part is that, in many of these instances, the airbags were deployed as a result of minor collisions. Normally, drivers would have been able to walk away from those types of fender benders unharmed.
Certain older Honda and Acura vehicles pose the largest threat. These models include:
- 2001 and 2002 Honda Civic
- 2001 and 2002 Honda Accord
- 2002 Honda Odyssey
- 2002 Honda CR-V
- 2003 Honda Pilot
- 2002 and 2003 Acura 3.2 TL
- 2003 Acura 3.2 CL
These models are equipped with the front airbag inflators that were the first to be recalled. They have up to a 50% chance of exploding upon deployment. Therefore, Honda urges owners of any of these vehicles to ONLY drive them to a dealer for immediate repair.
And if you are unable to drive, or are too afraid to, Honda is even willing to tow it to the nearest dealer free of charge. They will also provide you with a free loaner vehicle while your car is being fixed.
Also remember that many other vehicle models from other automakers are affected.
How Can I Find Out If My Car is Affected?
You can easily find out if your car is affected.
- Step 1: Find Your VIN
First, write down or take a picture of your vehicle identification number (VIN). This 17-digit number can be found on the driver-side dashboard near the windshield. - Step 2: Head to the Recall Website and Enter Your VIN
Visit AirbagRecall.com and enter your VIN. Follow the instructions on-screen until it tells you whether or not your car is affected. - Step 3: Get Your Car Fixed
If the website tells you "Recall Incomplete," it means you need to get your vehicle fixed. Contact your local dealership to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. They will fix your airbag inflator for free. If the site tells you "Remedy Not Available," that means the proper parts are not yet available for the repair you need. Call your local dealer anyway and let them know you want updates.
Don't risk injury or worse any longer. Take action and get your car fixed if it needs to be.
The Bottom Line
When facing the largest recall in U.S. history, consumers need to take action to ensure they and their passengers are safe as can be.
If your current car doesn't feel safe enough to drive anymore, or you need a vehicle for any other reason, Auto Credit Express can help you find financing even if you are dealing with imperfect credit. Get started by completing our free and easy online car loan request today.
