Is your car or truck on the Takata airbag recall list? Are your daily drives safe?

This major recall, affecting roughly 42 million vehicles in the United States, underscores a significant risk: airbags, designed to protect you, might pose a grave danger due to defective inflators. It’s a scenario that requires urgent action, compelling vehicle owners to verify their car’s status to ensure the safety of their passengers and themselves from potential personal injuries due to defective products.

The recall’s magnitude is unprecedented, affecting a wide range of vehicles from compact cars to luxury SUVs, and implicates the automotive industry’s responsibility toward consumer safety. As you get into the specifics of the recall, understanding the risks, and the corrective actions available for affected vehicles, it becomes a pivotal moment for consumers to advocate for their safety and speak to a seasoned personal injury lawyer, like those at Carter Mario Law Firm, if their airbag recall caused an injury.

Why Were Takata Airbags Recalled?

The Takata airbags were recalled due to a defect in the airbag inflator mechanism that could cause the inflator to rupture in the event of a crash. This malfunction was attributed to the degradation of the chemical propellant used in the airbag inflators over time, exacerbated by high humidity and temperature fluctuations. 

When the inflator ruptured, it could spray metal shrapnel into the vehicle’s cabin, posing an extreme risk of injury or death to occupants. The recall became one of the largest in automotive history, affecting about 42 million different vehicles across various brands and models, including Audi, BMW, Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Tesla, Toyota, and Fiat Chrysler automobiles, among others.

This airbag recall highlights critical safety concerns and has prompted widespread industry and regulatory action to address the issue and ensure consumer safety.

How Much Was The Takata Lawsuit Settlement?

The Takata lawsuit settlement was a significant financial repercussion for the company, amounting to $650 million. This settlement was intended to resolve claims from 44 states and Washington, D.C., related to the defective airbags. 

However, due to Takata’s bankruptcy, triggered by the massive financial strain from the recall, the company was expected to pay only a fraction of this amount. This settlement reflects the extensive legal and financial challenges Takata faced in the aftermath of the recall, highlighting the severe consequences of compromising on consumer safety in the automotive industry.

Safety Hazards Associated with Takata Airbags 

The safety hazards associated with Takata airbags stem from their potential to deploy explosively, causing the inflator housing to rupture and metal fragments to be propelled into the vehicle cabin at high speeds. This defect, linked to the airbag’s propellant degrading over time, especially in humid conditions, poses serious risks of injury or death to passengers and drivers. 

Unfortunately, the defective airbags have led to at least 19 deaths in the United States and at least 37 globally, with around 450 individuals estimated to have suffered personal injuries from the explosive deployments.

Legal Implications And Consumer Rights: Are You Owed Compensation?

The Takata airbag recall has significant legal implications, highlighting crucial consumer rights issues. Affected individuals may be entitled to compensation due to the potential negligence that led to the widespread use of these hazardous inflators. 

The legal landscape surrounding this recall involves numerous lawsuits, settlements, and claims against both Takata and the vehicle manufacturers that installed the faulty airbags. Consumers must understand their rights to seek justice and compensation for any harm caused by these defective products.

What To Do If You or A Loved One Were Injured By Recalled Airbags

If you or a loved one were injured by a recalled Takata airbag, it’s essential to take immediate steps to protect your health and legal rights. Seek medical attention promptly for any injuries, and keep detailed records of the incident, medical expenses, and any related costs. 

Consulting with personal injury lawyers who specialize in product liability, particularly those experienced with the Takata airbag recall, can provide much-needed guidance. 

For residents in Connecticut, the personal injury lawyers at Carter Mario offer specialized legal support tailored to these types of cases, ensuring you understand your rights and can pursue the compensation you may be entitled to.

What Vehicles Are Included In The Recall? 

The following are affected vehicles with defective Takata airbags and airbag inflators. These recalled vehicles all had faulty air bag inflators that could result in an air bag explosion, causing personal or fatal injuries.

Acura 

• 2003 Acura 3.2 CL
• 2002 – 2003 Acura 3.2 TL
• 2013 – 2016 Acura ILX
• 2013 – 2014 Acura ILX Hybrid
• 2003 – 2006 Acura MDX
• 2007 – 2016 Acura RDX
• 2005 – 2012 Acura RL
• 2009 – 2014 Acura TL
• 2009 – 2014 Acura TSX
• 2010 – 2013 Acura ZDX

Audi 

• 2006 – 2013 Audi A3
• 2005 – 2008 Audi A4 Avant
• 2006 – 2009 Audi A4 Cabriolet
• 2005 – 2008 Audi A4 Sedan
• 2010 – 2011 Audi A5 Cabriolet
• 2003 – 2011 Audi A6 Avant
• 2005 – 2011 Audi A6 Sedan
• 2009 – 2012 Audi Q5
• 2017 Audi R8
• 2008 Audi RS 4 Cabriolet
• 2007 – 2008 Audi RS 4 Sedan
• 2005 – 2008 Audi S4 Avant
• 2007 – 2009 Audi S4 Cabriolet
• 2005 – 2008 Audi S4 Sedan
• 2010 – 2012 Audi S5 Cabriolet
• 2007 – 2011 Audi S6 Sedan
• 2016 – 2017 Audi TT

BMW

• 2008 – 2013 BMW 1 Series
• 2000 – 2013 BMW 3 Series
• 2002 – 2003 BMW 5 Series
• 2011 – 2015 BMW X1
• 2007 – 2010 BMW X3
• 2003 – 2013 BMW X5
• 2008 – 2014 BMW X6
• 2010 – 2011 BMW X6 Hybrid

Cadillac

• 2007 – 2014 Cadillac Escalade
• 2007 – 2014 Cadillac Escalade ESV
• 2007 – 2013 Cadillac Escalade EXT

Chevrolet

• 2007 – 2013 Chevrolet Avalanche
• 2007 – 2014 Chevrolet Silverado HD
• 2007 – 2013 Chevrolet Silverado LD
• 2007 – 2014 Chevrolet Suburban
• 2007 – 2014 Chevrolet Tahoe

Chrysler

• 2005 – 2015 Chrysler 300
• 2007 – 2009 Chrysler Aspen
• 2007 – 2008 Chrysler Crossfire

Daimler Trucks North America 

• 2008 – 2009 Sterling Bullet

Daimler Vans USA LLC. 

• 2007 – 2009 Dodge Sprinter
• 2007 – 2017 Freightliner Sprinter
• 2010 – 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

Dodge Ram

• 2008 – 2014 Dodge Challenger
• 2006 – 2015 Dodge Charger
• 2005 – 2011 Dodge Dakota
• 2004 – 2009 Dodge Durango
• 2005 – 2008 Dodge Magnum
• 2003 – 2008 Dodge Ram 1500/2500/3500 Pickup
• 2005 – 2009 Dodge Ram 2500 Pickup
• 2007 – 2010 Dodge Ram 3500 Cab Chassis
• 2006 – 2009 Dodge Ram 3500 Pickup
• 2008 – 2010 Dodge Ram 4500/5500 Cab Chassis

Ferrari

• 2010 – 2015 Ferrari 458 Italia
• 2014 – 2015 Ferrari 458 Speciale
• 2015 Ferrari 458 Speciale A
• 2012 – 2015 Ferrari 458 Spider
• 2016 – 2017 Ferrari 488 GTB
• 2016 – 2017 Ferrari 488 Spider
• 2009 – 2014 Ferrari California
• 2015 – 2017 Ferrari California T
• 2013 – 2017 Ferrari F12
• 2016 – 2017 Ferrari F12 tdf
• 2016 Ferrari F60
• 2012 – 2016 Ferrari FF
• 2017 Ferrari GTC4Lusso

Fisker

• 2012 Fisker Karma

Ford 

• 2007 – 2010 Ford Edge
• 2006 – 2012 Ford Fusion
• 2005 – 2006 Ford GT
• 2005 – 2014 Ford Mustang
• 2004 – 2011 Ford Ranger

GMC

• 2007 – 2014 GMC Sierra HD
• 2007 – 2013 GMC Sierra LD
• 2007 – 2014 GMC Yukon
• 2007 – 2014 GMC Yukon XL

Honda

• 2001 – 2012 Honda Accord
• 2001 – 2011 Honda Civic
• 2003 – 2011 Honda Civic Hybrid
• 2001 – 2011 Honda Civic NGV
• 2010 – 2015 Honda Crosstour
• 2002 – 2011 Honda CR-V
• 2011 – 2015 Honda CR-Z
• 2003 – 2011 Honda Element
• 2010 – 2014 Honda FCX Clarity
• 2007 – 2013 Honda Fit
• 2013 – 2014 Honda Fit EV
• 2010 – 2014 Honda Insight
• 2002 – 2004 Honda Odyssey
• 2003 – 2015 Honda Pilot
• 2006 – 2014 Honda Ridgeline

Infiniti

• 2003 – 2008 Infiniti FX
• 2001 Infiniti I30
• 2002 – 2004 Infiniti I35
• 2006 – 2010 Infiniti M
• 2002 – 2003 Infiniti QX4

Jaguar

• 2009 – 2015 Jaguar XF

Jeep

• 2007 – 2016 Jeep Wrangler 

Land Rover

• 2007 – 2012 Land Rover Range Rover 

Lexus

• 2007 – 2012 Lexus ES350
• 2010 – 2017 Lexus GX460
• 2006 – 2013 Lexus IS250/350
• 2010 – 2015 Lexus IS250C/350C
• 2008 – 2014 Lexus IS F
• 2012 Lexus LFA
• 2002 – 2010 Lexus SC430

Lincoln

• 2007 – 2010 Lincoln MKX
• 2006 – 2012 Lincoln Zephyr/MKZ

Mazda

• 2004 – 2009 Mazda B-Series
• 2007 – 2012 Mazda CX-7
• 2007 – 2015 Mazda CX-9
• 2003 – 2011 Mazda 6
• 2006 – 2007 Mazda Mazdaspeed6
• 2004 – 2006 Mazda MPV
• 2004 – 2011 Mazda RX-8

Maclaren

• 2016 – 2017 McLaren 570
• 2015 – 2016 McLaren 650 S
• 2016 McLaren 675 LT
• 2012 – 2014 McLaren MP4-12C
• 2011 – 2015 McLaren P1

Mercedes Benz

• 2005 – 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
• 2010 – 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
• 2011 – 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabrio
• 2010 – 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe
• 2009 – 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
• 2010 – 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
• 2009 – 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML-Class
• 2009 – 2012 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
• 2007 – 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class
• 2011 – 2015 Mercedes-Benz SLS-Class

Mercury

• 2006 – 2011 Mercury Milan

Mitsubishi

• 2012 – 2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV
• 2004 – 2007 Mitsubishi Lancer
• 2004 – 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
• 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback
• 2006 – 2009 Mitsubishi Raider

Nissan

• 2001 – 2003 Nissan Maxima
• 2002 – 2004 Nissan Pathfinder
• 2002 – 2006 Nissan Sentra
• 2007 – 2012 Nissan Versa

Pontiac

• 2003 – 2010 Pontiac Vibe 

Saab

• 2005 – 2006 Saab 9-2x
• 2006 – 2011 Saab 9-3
• 2006 – 2009 Saab 9-5

Saturn

• 2008 – 2009 Saturn Astra 

Scion

• 2008 – 2015 Scion XB 

Subaru

• 2003 – 2006 Subaru Baja
• 2009 – 2013 Subaru Forester
• 2004 – 2011 Subaru Impreza (Including WRX/STI)
• 2003 – 2014 Subaru Legacy
• 2003 – 2014 Subaru Outback
• 2006 – 2014 Subaru Tribeca
• 2012 – 2014 Subaru WRX/STI

Tesla 

• 2012 – 2016 Tesla Model S

Toyota

• 2010 – 2016 Toyota 4Runner
• 2003 – 2013 Toyota Corolla
• 2003 – 2008 Toyota Corolla Matrix
• 2009 – 2013 Toyota Matrix
• 2004 – 2005 Toyota Rav4
• 2002 – 2006 Toyota Sequoia
• 2011 – 2014 Toyota Sienna
• 2003 – 2006 Toyota Tundra
• 2006 – 2011 Toyota Yaris (Hatch Back)
• 2007 – 2012 Toyota Yaris (Sedan)

Volkswagen

• 2009 – 2017 Volkswagen CC
• 2010 – 2014 Volkswagen Eos
• 2010 – 2014 Volkswagen Golf
• 2013 Volkswagen Golf R
• 2009 – 2013 Volkswagen GTI
• 2012 – 2014 Volkswagen Passat
• 2006 – 2010 Volkswagen Passat Sedan
• 2006 – 2010 Volkswagen Passat Wagon

How To Check If Your Car Is Included In The Recall

Determining if your vehicle is affected by the Takata airbag recall is a big step toward ensuring your safety. Luckily, the process involves a straightforward check that can be done from home. Vehicle owners should proactively verify their car’s inclusion in the recall to prevent the risks associated with the defective airbags. 

By verifying your vehicle’s status, you protect yourself and others from the risks posed by these defective airbags. Prompt verification is key to preventing potential hazards and is the first step before proceeding to finding your VIN and using the NHTSA’s recall lookup tool.

How To Find And Understand Your VIN

To ascertain if your vehicle is part of the Takata airbag recall, begin by locating your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This unique identifier, typically found on the dashboard near the windshield or on the driver’s side door jamb, is crucial for verifying your vehicle’s recall status. 

Understanding your VIN is essential, as it encodes details about your car’s specifications and history. Once you have your VIN, you can use it to check recall information, ensuring you are informed about any safety issues affecting your vehicle.

Using The NHTSA Recall Look Up Tool 

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides a recall lookup tool that is an invaluable resource for vehicle owners. By entering your VIN into this tool, you can determine whether your vehicle is impacted by the Takata airbag recall or any other safety notices. 

This tool gives you immediate access to up-to-date safety information directly from automotive manufacturers, allowing for informed decisions about your vehicle’s maintenance and ensuring your road safety.

Next Steps If Your Vehicle Is Included In The Recall List 

If your vehicle appears on the Takata airbag recall list, immediate action is essential. The next steps involve contacting an authorized dealership or the vehicle manufacturer to arrange for the necessary repairs, which typically involve replacing the faulty airbag inflator. 

It’s vital to prioritize this repair to ensure your safety and the safety of your passengers, as the risks associated with these defective airbags can be severe. Dealerships usually offer this service free of charge, and promptly addressing the recall can prevent potential harm. 

Contact The Personal Injury Lawyers At Carter Mario For Your Complimentary Case Consultation

If you or someone you know was injured by a Takata airbag and their vehicle is on the airbag recall list, it’s important to understand the legal options available. After ensuring the necessary steps are taken to address the safety recall, the next action is to seek professional legal counsel. 

Reaching out to the personal injury lawyers at Carter Mario provides an opportunity for a free consultation, as highlighted by their Zero-Fee Warranty. With over $1 billion recovered for clients, Carter Mario’s attorneys have a history of handling numerous defective product cases, including those related to the Takata airbag recall. Their personal injury attorneys can offer guidance on potential compensation for injuries suffered due to defective airbags, ensuring that your rights are fully protected and advocated for.

Contact the personal injury lawyers at Carter Mario today for your complimentary case consultation.