Buzz
When you get into your car, the last thing you expect is to be harmed or even killed by a device intended to protect you. But for over 276,000 Chrysler and Dodge owners with Takata airbags, this is a real and deadly threat.
Stellantis, formerly Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, has issued a ‘do not drive’ warning after two individuals were killed in separate crashes caused by airbags that deployed with lethal force. A third fatality is also suspected to be linked to a malfunctioning airbag. These vehicles had been previously recalled in 2015 for airbag safety issues, and free repairs were offered to owners, but many vehicles remain unrepaired, according to Stellantis.
According to a statement from the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), if a vehicle crashes and the airbags deploy, a faulty inflator can cause Takata airbags to burst, launching metal fragments toward passengers and drivers with deadly force. As reported by CNBC, the chemical used to trigger the airbags becomes more volatile over time, especially when exposed to moisture and heat. This instability causes the inflator’s metal canister to rupture, sending sharp debris into the vehicle’s interior.
Takata filed for bankruptcy in 2017 following lawsuits related to injuries and fatalities caused by their airbags. Reports indicate that 32 lives have been lost worldwide due to the exploding airbags, and up to 100 million defective airbag inflators were recalled.
Which vehicles are affected by the recall
The NHTSA report revisits the 2015 Takata recall, which impacted 34 million vehicles across 12 brands. Stellantis has now issued a ‘do not drive’ notice for the following models, provided owners have not yet repaired their vehicles:
2005-2010 Dodge Magnums
2005-2010 Dodge Chargers
2005-2010 Dodge Challengers
2005-2010 Chrysler 300s
This warning follows two fatal accidents involving 2010 Dodge Chargers, where the driver’s side airbags exploded after crashes, killing the drivers. The NHTSA report also notes that there are several other suspected airbag inflator ruptures in vehicles from other manufacturers, potentially linked to the faulty Takata airbags. If you're unsure whether your vehicle is part of the recall, you can check its VIN on the NHTSA’s Safety Issues & Recalls site.
What you should do if you're driving one of these affected cars
The NHTSA strongly advises against driving affected vehicles, even if you are taking them to the dealership for repairs. They also recommend that all vehicle owners confirm whether their car is part of the Takata airbag recall and immediately reach out to their dealership to schedule a free repair. Addressing the recall should be a top priority, as even minor collisions could trigger the airbags, leading to potential injuries or fatalities.
To contact the manufacturer, you can call the Stellantis Takata Call Center directly at 833-585-0144 or visit their website.
