Infiniti is recalling some 2006 through 2008 FX35 and FX45 SUVs that have already had their passenger-side airbags replaced in an earlier recall. According to Consumer Reports, those replacement airbags could tear during deployment and cause severe passenger injuries. This would be the third time these vehicles have been included in an airbag-related recall.
Details of the Recall
Infiniti initially recalled the FX35 and FX45 in 2016 to replace defective Takata airbag inflators that could explode during a crash and send shrapnel flying into the passenger compartment. Because of parts shortages, these vehicles got temporary replacement airbag inflators, which were swapped out for permanent replacements as part of a January 2020 recall.
Now, it turns out that the “permanent replacements” were also faulty. Quality control tests performed by the airbag supplier showed that a small change in how the airbags were assembled at the factory puts them at risk of rupture. In documentation provided to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the automaker says it is not aware of any crashes or injuries related to this latest recall.
Infiniti said that a change in how the replacement airbags were folded at the airbag supplier’s factory caused them to rupture during deployment. When the recall begins on April 18, Infiniti dealerships will replace the faulty airbags free of charge. Infiniti will notify owners of affected vehicles by first-class mail. If you have questions, please call 1-800-662-6200.
Auto Product Liability Issues
When an airbag becomes damaged during deployment, usually in the event of a crash, the consequences can be devastating. Airbags have no doubt helped prevent thousands of injuries and fatalities. However, when an airbag fails to deploy or when it deploys with too much force or inadvertently, it can cause significant injuries as well. Vehicle manufacturers are legally obligated to consumers to make products that are safe for consumers.
The law also requires them to report any potential dangers, defects or safety issues in the vehicles within five days of discovering the problems. Failure to do so could result in significant fines. Injured victims or families of deceased victims can file a product liability claim against the negligent automaker seeking compensation for their significant losses. A nationally renowned auto defect law firm can help victims and their families fight for their rights and hold negligent corporations accountable.
Source: https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/infiniti-suvs-recalled-for-faulty-passenger-airbags/
