NHTSA warns of ‘cheap, substandard’ replacement air bag inflators; BMW issues Takata recall

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a grave warning about the dangers of counterfeit air bag inflators. These substandard parts, often manufactured overseas and sold at significantly lower prices, pose a serious threat to the lives of used car owners and buyers. In recent months, three fatalities and two severe injuries have been linked to these defective inflators, which can explode upon impact, sending deadly metal shrapnel into vehicle occupants.

To protect themselves, consumers are urged to thoroughly investigate the history of any used vehicle before purchase and to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic. NHTSA also recommends avoiding online purchases of automotive parts from unknown sources, as these are more likely to be counterfeit. The agency is working to combat this issue by collaborating with law enforcement to identify and apprehend those involved in the distribution of these dangerous parts. Additionally, automakers continue to grapple with the ongoing Takata airbag recall, a separate but equally critical safety issue affecting millions of vehicles.

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