Massive Recall Looms as NHTSA Declares 50 Million Airbag Inflators Dangerous

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is standing by its decision that over 50 million airbag inflators made by ARC Automotive Inc. are hazardous and should be recalled. 

These inflators, used in nearly 49 million vehicles across 13 manufacturers, have been linked to at least seven injuries and two deaths since 2009. The inflators can explode, sending shrapnel into the vehicle cabin. Contentious automakers, however, are pushing back, arguing that there isn't sufficient evidence of a systemic defect.

But while negligent automakers attempt to turn a blind eye, the aftermath of these airbag explosions is hard to ignore. Injuries caused by the shrapnel can be gruesome, and the inflators pose an unreasonable risk of serious injury or death to drivers and passengers. ARC and many automakers oppose a recall, with several manufacturers saying the problem happens too infrequently to justify a recall, but even one death means these airbags are simply unsafe and not fit for drivers and passengers—period.

If you or a loved one have suffered an injury or if you’ve even lost someone due to these faulty airbags, don’t hesitate to contact Morgan & Morgan and take your first step toward justice. Hiring one of our lawyers is easy, and you can get started in minutes with a free case evaluation.

A Big Problem Needing a Big Recall

Although ARC and several automakers oppose the recall, NHTSA's investigation revealed ruptures in inflators made across various time periods and manufacturing plants, reinforcing their stance on the need for a recall. The agency will review public comments for 30 days before making a final decision, potentially leading to a massive and costly recall of millions of vehicles.

If the recall takes place, it would be the second-largest of its kind in U.S. history, behind the Takata airbag recall in 2019. The Takata recall affected approximately 67 million airbags that could explode when deployed.

Regulators asked ARC in April of 2023 to recall the inflators, but the company refused to issue a full-scale recall, setting the stage for a possible court fight. NHTSA held a public hearing in October, ready to seek the recall due to a manufacturing flaw. Byproducts from welding during manufacturing can clog a vent in the canister that is designed to let gas escape to quickly fill airbags. In defective products, pressure can build to the point where the canister is blown apart.

If you have been hurt by an airbag inflator explosion or other type of defective airbag issue, contact Morgan & Morgan to explore your legal options. Get a free case evaluation and let us listen to your concerns and hear your case.