Nissan has issued a serious warning to owners of older vehicles that are equipped with recalled Takata airbags. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) emphasized the urgency of the situation, urging owners to immediately stop driving these cars. The “Do Not Drive” alert specifically applies to 83,920 cars, including models such as the 2002-2006 Nissan Sentra, 2002-2004 Nissan Pathfinder, and 2002-2003 Infiniti QX4.
Risk of Explosion and Serious Injuries
The NHTSA has highlighted the potential risk associated with these recalled Takata airbags. The agency pointed out that due to the age of the vehicles and the defective nature of the airbag inflators, there is a heightened risk of explosion during airbag deployment. This could lead to the release of sharp metal fragments, resulting in serious injuries or even death for the occupants of the vehicle.
Historical Impact of Takata Airbag Recalls
The severity of the situation is further underscored by the history of Takata airbag recalls. The NHTSA confirmed that 27 individuals in the United States have lost their lives due to defective Takata airbags exploding upon deployment. Additionally, around 400 others have reportedly suffered injuries as a result. These numbers reflect the magnitude of the issue, with over 67 million Takata airbag inflators recalled in the U.S. alone and more than 100 million worldwide, making it one of the largest auto safety recalls ever.
Nissan and its division, Infiniti, are taking proactive measures to address the situation. They are offering affected owners free towing services, mobile repairs, and loaner cars in select locations to ensure their safety. This response reflects the company’s commitment to prioritizing customer well-being and taking responsibility for the potential risks associated with their vehicles.
The severity of the Takata airbag crisis has not gone unnoticed by the legal authorities. In 2017, Takata filed for bankruptcy protection in Japan and the U.S. after agreeing to pay $1 billion in criminal penalties related to allegations of fraudulent conduct in the sale of their defective airbag inflators. This legal action serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of neglecting vehicle safety and the impact it can have on lives.
The warning issued by Nissan regarding driving cars with recalled Takata airbags serves as a critical reminder of the importance of vehicle safety. Owners of affected vehicles must take immediate action to ensure their well-being and the safety of others on the road. The collaborative efforts of car manufacturers, regulatory agencies, and legal authorities are essential in addressing and rectifying such pressing safety issues in the automotive industry.
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