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Honda issued a “Do Not Drive” warning for seven older Acura and Honda vehicles which have unrepaired driver-side airbag inflators. The bags are unreliable and, if ejected, could send metal fragments that can severely injure and even kill the driver, says the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
What’s going on with Honda airbags?
The alert is an upgrade of the Takata Alpha airbag recall, specifically for those drivers who have not yet gotten theirs fixed. According to the NHTSA, “the risk to vehicle occupants is dire” and have a 50% failure rate. If the inflators rupture, deadly metal fragments could shoot towards the driver’s face. The airbags could deploy even from a minor crash, according to the NHTSA Acting Administrator Ann Carlson.
Which Hondas and Acuras are being recalled?
The NHTSA estimates there are about 8,200 Honda and Acura vehicles with the deadly airbags being driven today. The following make, models, and years have the Alpha airbags:
2001-2002 Honda Accord 2001-2002 Honda Civic 2002 Honda CR-V 2002 Honda Odyssey 2003 Honda Pilot 2002-2003 Acura 3.2 TL 2003 Acura 3.2CLWhat to do if you have one of the cars
You can check if your vehicle was recalled by inputing your VIN in the Recalls Lookup Tool. You can also download the SaferCar app, which automatically tells you if you need to fix the airbags. It’s free. If you’re part of the recall, the NHTSA asks you call your automaker’s local dealer to schedule the free recall repair or get free towing or mobile repair. Loaner and rentals are also eligible.
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If you want more information about the Takata airbag recall, you can check here. You can also reach the Acura/Honda Customer Service at 888-234-2138 or by visiting their Takata website.
