Dodge has had several airbag recall issues in recent years. In 2017, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced a recall of over 1 million Dodge vehicles due to a problem with the airbag system.
This was part of the Takata recall, where tens of millions of cars with Takata airbags, including Dodge Magnum Wagons, Charger muscle cars and Dodge Challengers, were recalled. Humidity and high heat were the underlying factors that caused the airbags to explode when deployed.
The issue was caused by a defect in the airbag control module, which could prevent the airbags from deploying in the event of a crash. This defect could increase the risk of injury or death to the vehicle’s occupants.
More recently, The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released news detailing a fatal crash involving a 2010 Chrysler 300. The accident raptured the driver’s airbag inflator. According to the same news report, five people have been killed this year in airbag-related crashes.
However, the company came out with a statement saying that the problem might be related to chemical properties which deteriorate over time, especially when exposed to hot environments and climates.
On December 19 (Monday), 2022, Stellantis, through its U.S. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FAC), re-affirmed the alert issued in November of the same year:
- Two people lost their lives in separate crashes involving exploding Takata airbags in Dodge Chargers (the 2010 models)
- Owners of Dodge Magnums, Challengers, Chargers and Chrysler 300s should call 833-585-0144 and have their vehicles serviced and towed for free.
- Owners are also advised to check whether their cars have open Takata airbags and schedule a free repair as soon as possible.
In addition to this recall, Dodge has also had a number of other airbag-related recalls in recent years. In 2018, the NHTSA announced a recall of thousands of Dodge vehicles due to a problem with the airbag system’s software. This defect would cause the airbags to deploy unexpectedly, increasing the risk of injury or death to the vehicle’s occupants.
In 2019 and 2021, Dodge announced another recall of over 200,000 vehicles due to a problem with the airbag system. This recall was issued after it was discovered that the airbags could potentially rupture.
It’s important for drivers of affected vehicles to be aware of these recalls and to have their vehicles repaired as soon as possible. If you own a Dodge vehicle and are unsure if it is affected by any of these recalls, you can check the NHTSA’s website or contact your local Dodge dealer for more information.
In Conclusion
Overall, the airbag recall issues affecting Dodge vehicles highlight the importance of regularly checking for and addressing any potential safety issues with your vehicle.
Left unrepaired these airbags present a constant source of danger as the risk of explosion grows with every passing day. Every day that passes without a replacement or service for these airbags, you’re putting yourself and your family in harm’s way.
By staying informed and having your vehicle repaired as needed, you can help to ensure the safety of yourself and your passengers on the road.
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