The inflators in the airbags could rupture, and throw shrapnel into the driver and passengers.
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On Thursday, NHTSA is expected to make a case that it should coordinate the Takata recall to ensure that an estimated 19 million defective Takata air bag inflators in USA vehicles are replaced by safer alternatives. US regulators have warned that more manufacturers and newer models are likely to become involved.
With regard to the problem leading to the recall of 400 additional vehicles by GM, the NHTSA said that the front seat-mounted side impact air bags can potentially rupture during deployment, thereby causing a possible risk of serious injury or even death.
The inflators use ammonium nitrate to create a small explosion that inflates the air bags in a crash.
Takata said in a news release on Monday that it has increased production of air bag replacement kits to 1 million per month.
A Takata inflator failed a lot-acceptance test at Takata’s Mexico factory just two weeks ago.
It affects 2015 Buick Lacrosse, Cadillac XTS, Chevy Camaro Equinox and Malibu and GMC Terrain vehicles. The company decided on the recall on October 9, according to the documents.
A GM spokesman told the Associated Press that GM has begun shipping replacement inflators to dealers, and that the company will offer owners loaner cars while the replacements are conducted.
The digital ad campaign-the first of its kind by an auto supplier, the company said-comes after technicians at dealerships have said vehicle owners weren’t rushing in for the fix.
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“It goes beyond the 11”, said Rosekind, who met with automakers and suppliers affected by the Takata recall over the summer.
