Takata Modifies Airbag Compound
Airbag supplier Takata has reportedly modified the compound used in its airbags.
According to a recent report, a Takata official who spoke on behalf of the company but did not want to be named, revealed that the company has changed the composition of an airbag propellant that contains a volatile chemical that has caused millions of vehicles worldwide to be recalled. The company is not admitting to a defect with the original version and simply stated that the change is in part to improve the quality of its products. The affected vehicles that have been recalled are being outfitted with replacement bags featuring the modified mix but the company has not shared details on how that mix has changed.
SEE ALSO: Nissan, Infiniti Join Massive Airbag Recall
The company did admit that the original compound could cause the airbag inflators to explode with excessive force, spraying metal shards inside the vehicle. Most of the affected vehicles in the recall are in high humidity areas where excessive moisture is causing the issues with the airbags. The massive airbag recall has been linked to at least four deaths in the U.S.
[Source: Automotive News]
Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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