Risk from defective airbags
For years, the manufacturer Takata has supplied airbags to numerous automotive companies whose gas generators can be defective. Aging—especially under the influence of heat and humidity—causes the material to change. This poses a significant risk to drivers and passengers in the event of an accident. This is precisely why a large-scale worldwide investigation was initiated. Airbag recall.
Of this Airbag recall Many models from well-known manufacturers are also affected. If you are unsure whether your vehicle is included, you should contact the official Airbag recall Be sure to check. This is the only way to determine whether your car is also equipped with a potentially dangerous Takata airbag.
How great is the danger?
If the airbag is deployed in an accident, the gas generator can develop uncontrolled high pressure. As a result, metal parts can be hurled into the vehicle interior. This can cause serious injuries and, in the worst case, be fatal. Airbag recall is intended to prevent it from ever getting that far.
What was the reason?
The problem is related to the gas generators in Takata airbags. Instead of a stable propellant, ammonium nitrate was used as the propellant—a cost-effective but unstable solution. This material is sensitive to heat, moisture, and aging. Over time, it can cause excessive explosion pressure to build up when the airbag deploys.
The result: The metal housing of the generator can shatter and hurl metal fragments into the interior. It was precisely this risk that led to the worldwide Airbag recall necessary.
In the following video, GWP explains the background to the Takata airbag scandal:
It sheds light on how the problem arose, the enormous dimensions of the worldwide recalls, and the concrete consequences for drivers. It also describes how European authorities have responded to the dangers posed by the defective airbags.
Faulty airbag? How to check your vehicle
If you want to find out whether your car is factory-equipped with a faulty Takata airbag, you have two options:
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Online check with the manufacturer: On the respective car manufacturer's website, you can enter the chassis number (if available) under the "Airbag Recall" section. After the data comparison, you will immediately find out whether the vehicle is affected by the recall.
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Inspection at the dealer: If the online query doesn't work, we recommend visiting an authorized dealer of your brand. They can check whether a Takata airbag is installed using their service system, which has a direct connection to the manufacturer.
If a recall is actually in place, you should immediately visit a manufacturer's workshop so that the affected airbags can be replaced quickly. This also applies if an official recall letter has already been issued by the manufacturer or the Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA).