It’s 2021 and automakers are still being hounded by problems with defective Takata airbags. This time around, Ford Motor Company is moving to recall three million vehicles across its Ford, Mercury, and Lincoln brands due to problematic inflators.
In a recent ruling by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the regulator said the airbag inflators in various Ford models could degrade and cause the airbags to rupture. When it does, there is an increased risk of metal fragments being propelled inside the vehicle and potentially injuring the driver and passengers. The airbags in question are located on the driver’s side of the vehicle.
Affected by the massive recall are the 2006-2011 Mercury Milan, 2006-2012 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ/Zephyr, 2007-2011 Ford Ranger, 2007-2010 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX, and the 2007-2009 Mazda B-series pickup.
The recall was ordered after the NHTSA rejected petitions from Ford and Mazda. Both brands now have 30 days to put their recall plans into action. With three million vehicles set to return to dealership lots, the Blue Oval stands losing up to $610 million for the replacement of the defective airbags.
Back in November 2020, the NHTSA also ordered General Motors to recall nearly six million vehicles due to problems with the same Takata airbag inflators.
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