Vehicle Safety Alert: Nissan Urges Owners to “Do Not Drive” Nearly 84,000 Select 2002-2006 Vehicles
In a recent safety alert issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 84,000 Nissan-made vehicles produced between 2002-2006 have been flagged for potential safety hazards. The alert specifically targets certain model year 2002-2006 Nissan Sentras, 2002-2004 Nissan Pathfinders, and 2002-2003 Infiniti QX4s that are equipped with defective Takata airbags. These vehicles are subject to open Takata airbag recalls under past NHTSA recall campaigns. The NHTSA warns that the frontal passenger airbag inflators in these vehicles may explode due to propellant degradation caused by long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and temperature cycling.
Immediate Action Required: Check Your Vehicle for Open Takata Airbag Recalls
The NHTSA is urging all owners of the affected vehicles to immediately check if their car has an open Takata airbag recall. If so, owners are advised to schedule a free repair at their dealerships and follow all warnings from the manufacturer. Even minor crashes can trigger the exploding Takata airbags, resulting in potentially fatal or life-altering injuries. The age of the airbag is a significant risk factor, particularly in older model year vehicles.
Response from Nissan and Infiniti: Free Repair and Assistance Offered
Nissan has acknowledged the safety risks posed by the defective Takata airbag inflators in their vehicles. Due to the age of the affected vehicles, there is an increased risk of the inflator exploding during airbag deployment, which can propel sharp metal fragments and cause serious harm or even death. Nissan and Infiniti are providing free towing, mobile repair services, and in some locations, loaner vehicles to affected owners. It is crucial for owners to take immediate action to address this safety concern and prevent any potential accidents.
The defective Takata airbags have been at the center of a massive recall affecting millions of vehicles from various automakers. The NHTSA reports that exposure to heat and humidity over time can cause metal parts inside the airbag to shoot out upon deployment, posing a serious risk to drivers and passengers. So far, 27 fatalities and over 400 injuries have been linked to defective Takata airbags. As of 2021, approximately 50 million defective Takata airbag inflators have been repaired.
In conclusion, vehicle owners must prioritize safety and take proactive measures to address any open Takata airbag recalls. Ignoring this warning could lead to tragic consequences, as the risk of serious injuries or fatalities is significant. Stay informed, check your vehicle, and get the necessary repairs to ensure your safety on the road.