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 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 will illuminate on the dashboard and the airbag will not deploy in the event of a collision, increasing the risk of injury or even death.
What Consumers Should Know
Audi dealers will repair any new or used vehicles they still have in their inventory. Not all A3 vehicles within those model years are included in this recall. Some of the versions were built with 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 are seeing problems such as an error message and 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. For any further questions or concerns, contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834.
When Airbags Don’t Deploy
Airbags are safety devices that each vehicle is required to be equipped with, under the law. 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, there is the possibility of suffering these types of catastrophic or fatal injuries.
If you have been injured in a car accident where your vehicle’s airbags failed to deploy, 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, it is important that you preserve the vehicle and the airbag in its current condition, so they can be thoroughly examined by an expert for all evidence of malfunctions and defects. An experienced auto 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/
