Automakers are in the latest phase of their Takata-related recalls, meaning that millions of vehicles are being recalled to be fitted with replacement airbags that do not implode mid-deployment. However, that’s not the only factor prompting automakers to launch airbag-related recalls.
While Honda and Toyota are both recalling millions of vehicles over dangerous airbag-related problems, only Honda’s campaign is about Takata’s explosive inflators.
According to a series of news reports, Toyota is recalling 3.4 million vehicles globally after learning that their airbags may fail to inflate during accidents.
These devices come with computers made by ZF-TRW that can be impacted by electrical interference. This can cause the computer to fail to send signals to the airbag in the event of a crash and the safety devices won’t inflate.
The recall follows reports of vehicles made by different automakers whose airbags did not inflate during accidents, leading to eight deaths. Toyota is only one of the six companies that could be impacted, meaning that as many as 12.3 million vehicles could eventually be recalled. Currently, regulators are investigating to learn more.
At least one person died in a crash involving a Toyota because the airbag did not inflate.
Honda’s recall impacts 2.7 million vehicles in the U.S. and Canada.
The recalled units come with defective Takata airbag inflators that could rupture mid-deployment, blowing metal shrapnel into the car’s cabin.
Toyota, Honda Car Owners Should Stay On Top Of These Recalls
After launching its campaign on Tuesday, Toyota said in a statement that the recalled airbag computers lack adequate protection against electrical noise, which can lead to deployment failure. This problem can also affect seatbelts, the firm added.
Recalled Toyota units include the 2011 through 2019 Corollas, the 2011 through 2013 Matrix, the 2012 through 2018 Avalon, and the 2013 through 2018 Avalon Hybrid.
Honda’s recall covers the 1998 through 2000 Accord coupe and sedan, the 1996 through 2000 Civic coupe and sedan, the 1997 through 2001 CR-V, the 1998 through 2001 Odyssey, and the 1997 and 1998 EV Plus. Acura vehicles listed under the recall include the 1997 and 1998 2.2CL, the 1997 through 1999 3.0CL, the 1998 and 1999 2.3CL, the 2001 and 2002 3.2CL, the 2001 and 2002 MDX, the 1998 through 2003 3.5RL, and the 1999 through 2001 3.2TL.
Honda does not yet have enough replacement parts to fix all recalled cars and will be notifying consumers when parts are available.
Toyota and Honda vehicle owners who have any further concerns regarding this recall are encouraged to contact the automakers.
Click here for more details on both of these recalls.
