Ford and Mazda issued a warning on Tuesday, instructing owners of certain vehicles not to drive their cars due to potentially dangerous airbags that are still installed. The advisory affects approximately 457,300 vehicles in the U.S., with Takata non-desiccated airbag inflators that require urgent repairs under past recalls, according to the automakers.
Of the total number of vehicles impacted, around 83,000 were Mazda vehicles, while the remaining 374,300 fell under the Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury brands. Mazda North American Operations stated in a press release that the „do not drive“ advisory applies to customers who have not completed specific recalls, including driver and passenger airbag inflators in various models and model years.
Ford also identified specific models and years that are unsafe to drive until the recalled airbags are fixed. These include certain Ford Ranger trucks, Mustangs, GT vehicles, Fusion, Mercury Milan, Lincoln MKZ/Zephyr vehicles, Edge, and Lincoln MKX vehicles, as well as Ford Ranger trucks from 2007-2011.
The issue of recalled Takata airbags has affected numerous auto companies in the U.S., with a total of around 67 million recalled airbags, as reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Tragically, there have been twenty-seven fatalities and at least 400 injuries in America linked to the defective inflators.
The NHTSA highlighted the increased risk of airbag ruptures in older vehicles, stating that explosions can result in severe injuries or fatalities for vehicle occupants. Both Ford and Mazda have confirmed that they have the necessary parts available to conduct the required repairs on the affected vehicles.
Owners can have the repairs done at their local dealership, with options for mobile service, towing, and loaner vehicles provided by both automakers. The service will be free of charge, as confirmed by the NHTSA. Ford mentioned on its website that dealers can provide an estimate of the time required for the recall repair.
Mazda estimated that the installation of a new airbag inflator would take approximately an hour. Both companies are actively reaching out to customers with affected vehicles through various communication channels on a monthly basis to ensure that the necessary repairs are completed promptly.
In conclusion, the safety of vehicle occupants is paramount, and it is crucial for owners of the affected Ford and Mazda vehicles to heed the „do not drive“ advisory until the airbag inflators are replaced. By taking proactive measures and getting the necessary repairs done, drivers can help prevent potential accidents and injuries caused by defective airbags.