Automakers oppose order to recall millions of vehicles due to airbag pump flaw

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has announced the need to recall up to 52 million airbag inflators. This recall could potentially be one of the largest in US history, affecting millions of vehicles and costing up to $10 billion.

Notably, major car manufacturers such as General Motors, Ford, and Volkswagen have expressed their objections to this recall request. Both GM and Ford argue in their response to the NHTSA that there is no evidence of faulty components, despite reports of inflators rupturing during accidents and causing injuries or even fatalities.

Other carmakers including Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Hyundai, Kia, and Porsche have also voiced their opposition to the NHTSA’s request.

Despite the carmakers’ objections, the NHTSA intends to proceed with unilateral actions to enforce the recall. The agency emphasizes that the airbag inflator units on the recall list may rupture upon deployment, posing potential harm to occupants. According to a report from the NHTSA, at least 7 people have been injured and one person has died as a result of this issue.

Approximately 12 different automakers have utilized ARC-produced airbag inflator units between 2000 and 2018. This includes BMW, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, Ford, General Motors, Hyundai, Kia, Maserati, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Tesla, Toyota, and Volkswagen.

The NHTSA is actively seeking input from stakeholders before making a final determination regarding the defective nature of these components. A final decision is expected in early next year. If implemented, this recall would become the second-largest industry-wide recall in history, following the Takata airbag scandal.

Thái Son (Tuoitrethudo)

References: Carscoops, Japantimes