The US government and Honda are urging owners of around 8,200 older vehicles to stop driving them until the dangerous airbag inflators are replaced. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a “Do Not Drive” advisory for vehicles manufactured between 2001 and 2003 that are fitted with Takata inflators. These inflators have a high chance of exploding and sending shrapnel flying in a crash, putting the lives of drivers and passengers at risk.
According to NHTSA, the “Alpha” inflators have a 50% chance of exploding in a crash, which could result in death or serious injury from shrapnel flying towards the driver’s face. The vehicles affected include the 2001 and 2002 Honda Accord and Civic, the 2002 Honda CR-V and Odyssey SUVs, the 2003 Honda Pilot, the 2002 and 2003 Acura 3.2 TL, and the 2003 Acura 3.2 CL.
Owners can check if their vehicles are included by visiting the NHTSA website and entering their 17-digit VIN number. Despite previous recalls, records show that repairs have not been made on the affected vehicles. Honda has already replaced 99% of the dangerous inflators and is offering free repairs, parts, and even towing and loaner vehicles if needed. The company has reached out to owners more than 18 million times through mail, email, phone calls, and home visits to schedule these repairs.
The danger posed by the Takata inflators stems from the use of ammonium nitrate to create a small explosion to inflate airbags in a crash. However, the chemical can become more volatile over time when exposed to moisture in the air and repeated high temperatures. This can lead to the explosion rupturing a metal canister and hurling shrapnel into the passenger compartment.
Since 2009, exploding airbags have caused at least 33 deaths globally, including 24 in the US. The majority of deaths and around 400 injuries have occurred in the US, but have also happened in Australia and Malaysia. The potential for these dangerous malfunctions led to the largest series of auto recalls in US history, with at least 67 million Takata inflators recalled globally. Honda has the largest number of vehicles with Takata inflators.
The US government and Honda are urging owners of affected vehicles to take the warnings seriously and to schedule their free repair as soon as possible. NHTSA Acting Administrator Ann Carlson stated, “Don’t gamble with your life or the life of someone you love – schedule your free repair today before it’s too late.” The exploding airbags have already caused too much harm, and it is imperative that all measures are taken to prevent further injury or death.
In conclusion, the US government and Honda are taking proactive measures to protect the safety of drivers and passengers in older vehicles. The “Do Not Drive” advisory is a serious warning and should not be ignored. If you own one of the vehicles listed, it is essential that you schedule your free repair as soon as possible. The repairs are free, parts are available, and towing and loaner vehicles can be provided if needed. Don’t take any chances with your safety – schedule your repair today.
