The recall only affects models from 2008 and earlier, here are the details:
Acura: 2002 to 2003 CL and TL, 2003 to 2006 MDX, and 2005 RL
BMW: 2000 to 2005 3-series sedan and wagon, 2000 to 2006 3-series convertible and coupe, and 2001 to 2006 M3 convertible and coupe
Chrysler: 2005 to 2008300 and 2007 to 2008 Aspen
Dodge/Ram: 2003 to 2008 Dodge Ram 1500, 2005 to 2008 Dodge Ram 2500, Dakota, and Durango, 2006 to 2008 Dodge Ram 3500 and 4500, and 2008 Dodge Ram 5500
Ford: 2004 Ranger, 2005 to 2006 GT, and 2005 to 2007 Mustang
Honda: 2001 to 2007 Accord, 2001 to 2005 Civic, 2002 to 2006 CR-V, 2002 to 2004 Odyssey, 2003 to 2011 Element, 2003 to 2007 Pilot, and 2006 Ridgeline
Mazda: 2003 to 2007 Mazda 6; 2006–2007 Mazda Speed 6, 2004 to 2008 Mazda RX-8, 2004 to 2005 MPV, and 2004 B-series
Mitsubishi: 2004 to 2005 Lancer and 2006 to 2007 Raider
Nissan: 2001 to 2003 Maxima, 2001 to 2004 Pathfinder, and 2002 to 2006 Nissan Sentra
Pontiac: 2003 to 2005 Vibe
Saab: 2005 9-2X
Subaru: 2003 to 2005 Baja, Legacy, Outback; 2004 to 2005 Impreza, Impreza WRX, and Impreza WRX STI
Toyota: 2002 t0 2005 Toyota Corolla and Sequoia and 2003 to 2005 Matrix and Tundra
The Reason for the Recall
The problem with the affected airbags is a dangerous propellant. There is a high likelihood of an airbag exploding when it is deployed in an accident. An exploding airbag will often result in metal parts being sprayed into the cabin of the vehicle. The metal parts are from the casing and can potentially lead to an injury to the driver or passenger. Humidity was identified as an issue because moisture might make the propellant more combustible.
A nationwide recall is being urged because there are vehicles experiencing this issue that are outside of high humidity areas. States which are affected include Hawaii, Florida, California, North Carolina, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.
Automakers are currently evaluating the request by the NHTSA. The recall is only for the airbag that is on the driver's side of the vehicle. It does not affect passenger-side airbags. This is because these airbags use a different design and no tests have indicated a problem exists.
However, some automakers have issued a limited recall of passenger-side airbags to high humidity areas. A few lawmakers have expressed criticism of this decision and insist more is needed as regional recalls from automakers are no longer sufficient. A simple reason might be that people can use their cars to travel out of their states to more humid areas. If you believe you or someone you know may have been injured by a defective air bag then it may be beneficial to speak to an experienced car accident attorney.
By George Malonis
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