Audi is recalling 138,000 of its 2015-2019 A3 cars because of a defect that could potentially prevent the vehicle’s airbags from deploying in the event of a crash. According to Consumer Reports, the problem lies with an electrical connector that can malfunction and deactivate the front passenger-side airbag. If this problem occurs, the “passenger airbag off” light on the dashboard will illuminate, and the airbag will not deploy in a collision, increasing the risk of injury or even death.
What Consumers Should Know About Defective Airbags
Audi dealers will repair any new or used vehicles in their inventory. This recall does not cover all A3 vehicles from those model years. We built some of the versions using updated parts. The recall letters are expected to go out to vehicle owners in mid-August with instructions regarding bringing their cars for a free repair.
The automaker advises owners who see problems such as an error message and an airbag warning light even when the front passenger seat is occupied, to take their car to the local dealership as soon as possible for an inspection and repair. Under the law, all inspections and repairs relating to safety recalls should be performed at no charge to consumers. Call 1-800-253-2834 to speak with an Audi customer service representative about any additional queries or worries.
When Airbags Don’t Deploy
The law requires every vehicle to have airbags as safety devices. Airbags keep vehicle occupants safe by inflating during a collision and cushioning the occupants’ body parts, such as the head and neck, thereby preventing traumatic injuries that have the potential to result in lifelong disabilities or even death. However, when airbags fail to deploy, these types of catastrophic or fatal injuries can occur.
Suppose you have been injured in a car accident where your vehicle’s airbags failed to deploy. In that case, you may have a product liability lawsuit against the automaker, the manufacturer of the airbag, and other parties. You may be able to seek compensation for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, rehabilitation, and pain and suffering.
In such cases, you must preserve the vehicle and the airbag in their current condition so an expert can thoroughly examine them for all evidence of malfunctions and defects. An experienced California airbag defect lawyer will be able to guide you through the process and help you recover maximum compensation for your losses.
Source: https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/audi-a3-recalled-because-airbag-may-not-deploy/
