As of March 2018, millions of defective Takata airbags are still awaiting replacement, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
How Many Takata Airbags Are Under the Recall Order?
The NHTSA says that the airbags are in millions of vehicles made by 19 different vehicle manufacturers. According to the NHTSA at a recent Senate hearing, there are at least 29 million airbags awaiting replacement in Priority Groups 1 through 8.
The NHTSA also expects to expand the recall to approximately 65 million Takata airbag inflators by the end of December 2019. An audit the agency issued in March 2018 warns that “the severity of potential death or serious injury is unprecedented.” The audit reveals that although many car makers have completed replacements for recalled vehicles, some other manufacturers have barely begun to repair their vehicles.
Why Are So Many Airbags Still Awaiting Replacement?
According to news stories, thousands of people say they received notices months or even years ago that their cars had this dangerous defect, but when they called to schedule the repairs, the dealers said they did not have the parts needed to replace the defective airbags.
However, in January 2018, the NHTSA stated that more airbags will soon become available for replacement. Takata is producing one million airbags per month to allow automakers to perform replacements more quickly, according to Consumer Reports.
You can determine whether you might have a defective airbag by searching your Vehicle Information Number on our Airbag Recall Search Tool.
If you suspect that you or a loved one has been the victim of a defective airbag, call the Takata airbag recall lawsuit lawyers at Newsome Melton. We are standing by at 888-808-5977 to set up your free consultation.