New Recall Issued: Airbags Deploying in Absence of Car Wreck

Clore Law · February 3 2015

In the wake of the tragedies caused by Takata airbags, yet another airbag issue has arisen. This time, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a recall for more than 2.1 million vehicles because their airbags deploy even when there hasn't been a collision. No confirmed car wrecks in Charleston have been caused by the recalled parts at this time, but many of the vehicles involved are on our streets right now. The Problem The affected vehicles contain a faulty crash sensor made by TRW Automotive of Michigan. If this sounds familiar, this is the second time these vehicles have been recalled for the exact same issue. The initial repairs only stopped unnecessary deployment 85% of the time. Naturally, these unexpected and unwarranted airbag deployments have led to numerous reports of injury and can cause car wrecks as well. Moreover, some of the vehicles still have faulty Takata inflators, which means that they can deploy in absence of a collision and spray shrapnel throughout the vehicle. The NHTSA is presently investigating what is believed to be the sixth death in the United States caused by defective Takata inflators. Overall, there have been more than 400 unintentional airbag deployments caused by faulty TRW sensors. Who is Affected As a reminder, all the vehicles involved have already been recalled at least once. Even if you have had the TRW sensor repaired or replaced, you must do it again. The part involved also acts independently of the defective Takata inflator, which means that if you've had that repair completed, your airbag can still deploy unexpectedly.

• Acura MDX (2003 model)
• Honda Odyssey (2003-2004 models)
• Jeep Cherokee (2002-2004 models)
• Jeep Grand Cherokee (2002-2004 models)
• Jeep Liberty (2002-2003 models)
• Pontiac Vibe (2003-2004 models)
• Toyota Avalon (2003-2004 models)
• Toyota Corolla (2003-2004 models)
• Toyota Matrix (2003-2004 models)

In order to ensure safety, the affected vehicles will have to have their complete airbag module replaced. At this time, manufacturers report that they do not have the parts available to do complete the repair. However, vehicle owners who have not had the initial repair, which can decrease the risk of unexpected deployment, are encouraged to have it completed immediately. For more information about what to do in the meantime, vehicle owners asked to contact the NHTSA or their car's manufacturer directly.

Charleston Car Wreck Attorney

There are several concerns with this issue. First of all, manufacturers know they have issued a faulty product and are aware of the dangers it poses. However, they have offered no way to 100% safeguard against it at this time. This means that millions of people are in vehicles with faulty parts that are known to cause injury and even death, yet no real solution has been made available. Issuing a recall does not let manufacturers off the hook in regard to taking responsibility for dangerous products they have released.Whether you have been hurt in an accident and you know that a faulty product was involved, or you believe the vehicle did not operate like it should, please contact us. Your case may help save the lives of others, hold manufacturers accountable, plus a court may award you reparations for your injuries and damages. Fill out our online form or speak directly with one of our attorneys by calling1(800)610-2546.