Investigation Into Takata Airbag Problems Now Expanding
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Federal regulators are considering taking over the largest auto recall in U.S. history to speed up the repair of defective airbags.
Derek Valcourt explains the investigation into the problems is now expanding.
So far, the recall has affected millions of front seat airbags, but now, new concerns over an ammonium nitrate compound used in the airbag inflators could call into question the safety of millions more.
Watch carefully--you're about to see why Takata airbag inflators have been recalled. In slow motion, you can see the inflator exploding, sending metal fragments flying.
The faulty airbags are being blamed for eight deaths and nearly 100 injuries--part of why the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is urging drivers to check if their car is affected and get it fixed immediately.
"Don't let this fall through the cracks. This is all about safety for you and your family," said Mark Rosekind, administrator, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Some 19.2 million vehicles from 12 manufacturers are on the list.
Now federal officials say they're expanding their investigation to look into the safety of Takata side airbags and even newer inflators--not just older models.
But officials say, so far, less than a quarter of recalled inflators have been replaced nationwide--in part, because there aren't enough replacement parts available.
Maryland auto dealers say that has concerned customers waiting and complaining.
"We want to be able to give them answers. We want to be able to tell someone when they call in, 'Hey, it's going to be six weeks,' or, 'It's going to be two weeks,' or whatever the number's going to be. And it's been frustrating because it's been hard for us to do that in certain circumstances," said Peter Kitzmiller, Maryland Automobile Dealers Association.
"I got a recall notice on my truck," said Pam Catterton.
Drivers Pam Catterton and Tameka Lane are among those wondering why the affected drivers are having to wait.
"Actually, I think it's a shame because it should be taken care of," said Lane.
The list of affected cars keeps on growing. Drivers are urged to check to see if their vehicle is on the recall list and contact your car manufacturer right away to get those repairs done quickly and for free.
To see if your vehicle identification number is on the list, CLICK HERE.
The government is considering issuing a special directive, ordering car manufacturers and their supplies to speed up the productions and replacement of the faulty airbags.
