The risks associated with fake airbag inflators
In a statement released on July 10, the NHTSA cautioned drivers and potential buyers of used vehicles to be on alert for “inexpensive, inferior replacement air bag inflators that can result in fatal or serious injuries during a collision.” These hazardous aftermarket components carry comparable risks to those produced by Takata nearly a decade ago. Large metal fragments may be propelled into an occupant’s chest, neck, eyes, and face, leading to death or severe harm.
Based on information from CarFax, nearly 2 million vehicles involved in crashes with airbag deployment over the past two years remain on American roads. This situation provides opportunities for enterprising individuals and scammers to install dangerous counterfeit airbags and profit under the guise of safety.
Measures to guarantee airbag safety in pre-owned vehicles
Making sure airbags are safe in used cars is crucial, especially due to the widespread presence of fake parts in the market. Australian consumers can take these important measures to protect themselves and their families:
- Seek Expert Advice: Vehicle owners should reach out to trusted car dealerships or certified mechanics to have their cars inspected. These experts can assess whether the airbag inflators are authentic or fake.
- Prompt Replacement: When a counterfeit airbag inflator is detected, it must be swiftly swapped out for an authentic component. This precautionary step can avert possible deaths or serious harm in the case of an accident.
- Notify Authorities about Counterfeit Parts: Upon discovering counterfeit parts, promptly inform your local Homeland Security Investigations office or an FBI field office. This assists authorities in tracking and reducing the spread of hazardous counterfeit components.
Besides these measures, the NHTSA recommends that consumers carefully investigate the repair history of any used vehicle they intend to buy. This should involve ensuring that any airbag replacements were performed with OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts. Using non-authentic inflators may result in the airbag only partially inflating or inflating too slowly, thereby greatly raising the risk of injury or fatality in an accident.
“The non-authentic inflators might only inflate the airbag partially or do so too slowly,” caution NHTSA officials.
Considering the increasing average age of vehicles on Australian roads and the growing dependence on the used car market, it is essential for consumers to remain alert. As new car prices continue to rise worldwide, the allure of less expensive options is significant. Nonetheless, the possible expenses associated with using inferior parts greatly exceed the upfront savings.
By following these measures, Australian buyers can more effectively safeguard themselves against the concealed risks present in the pre-owned vehicle market. Verifying that airbag inflators are authentic and reporting any fake components can save lives and avert severe injuries.
