Mazda Recalls 270,000 Older Vehicles for Defective Takata Airbags
Mazda Recalls 270,000 Older Vehicles for Defective Takata Airbags
Mazda is recalling nearly 270,000 older vehicles that are equipped with potentially lethal Takata airbags in the United States. According to a news report on MLive.com, the automaker will recall 269,618 vehicles including the 2003-2008 Mazda6, 2006-2007 Mazdaspeed6 and 2004 MPV vehicles across the United States. Associated Press notes that the recall is being issued for the second time and will vary by the state and age of the affected vehicles. Mazda says it will start notifying owners beginning this month and that dealers will replace the front-passenger-side airbag inflator with an alternate inflator at no cost.
Dangerous and Defective Airbags
Defective Takata airbag inflators have triggered an unprecedented auto defect recall leading to more than 40 million vehicles being recalled. Some of these Takata airbag inflators can become explosive sending metal pieces flying into the cabin when deployed. The chemical, ammonium nitrate, which ignites the airbag inflators can be damaged by heat and humidity over time causing the danger of explosion and injury.
So far, more than 20 deaths have been reported as a result of these airbags including right here in Southern California. Fatal crashes have involved Honda Civic, Accord, City, CR-V and Acura TL, and 2006 Ford Ranger models equipped with Takata airbags. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has said it is deeply concerned with the pace at which the recall of Ford Ranger and Mazda B-series trucks is going.
Auto Product Liability Issues
If you suspect that your vehicle may be equipped with a Takata airbag, use NHTSA’s website to search your vehicle identification number of VIN. You could also sign up for NHTSA safety alerts for a specific vehicle on their website. If your vehicle has been recalled for a faulty Takata airbag inflator, take your vehicle to a dealer and get it repaired right away. This is the best possible way to keep your family and loved ones safe.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to a defective Takata airbag, you may be able to file a product liability lawsuit seeking compensation for your injuries, damages and losses. An experienced auto defect attorney who has had a successful track record of handling Takata airbag cases will be able to help you better understand your legal rights and options.
Source: https://www.mlive.com/auto/index.ssf/2018/07/mazda_takata.html
