Owners of Older Dodge and Chrysler Cars Told Not to Drive Until Takata Airbags Can Be Replaced
The Takata airbag problem was one of the most publicized automotive catastrophes ever. Major automakers issued massive recalls to replace the dangerous airbag units, which could rupture and send shrapnel into the passenger cabin. Anyone alive in 2015 would’ve been unable to ignore the constant drumbeat of press around the recalls, so it’s surprising to hear that we’re still trying to round up owners of affected vehicles.
Stellantis is telling owners of 2005-2010 Dodge and Chrysler vehicles to park their cars until they can obtain a fix for the Takata airbags they carry. The Dodge Charger, Magnum, and Challenger are affected, in addition to the Chrysler 300. The group includes more than 275,000 cars.
It’s worth noting that we’re not talking about a new recall here. Stellantis is reminding people that they should’ve complied with the original recall seven years ago. More than 30 people have died due to the airbag problem, so the push to prevent further death is understandable.
In its statement, Stellantis said that the Takata airbag inflators could deteriorate over time, especially in hot, humid climates. That can cause the inflators to explode instead of deploy, sending shrapnel directly into the faces of the people they’re meant to protect.
If your car is in that range, there’s no reason not to pursue a fix. Stellantis/Fiat Chrysler will pay to have your vehicle towed and replace the airbags free of charge. The fix takes less than an hour, so don’t ignore the issue if you’ve got an older dodge or Chrysler.
[Image: Stellantis]
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Chris grew up in, under, and around cars, but took the long way around to becoming an automotive writer. After a career in technology consulting and a trip through business school, Chris began writing about the automotive industry as a way to reconnect with his passion and get behind the wheel of a new car every week. He focuses on taking complex industry stories and making them digestible by any reader. Just don’t expect him to stay away from high-mileage Porsches.
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Honda has had similar challenges getting their old cars in for this repair. I wonder how many vehicles of all makes remain unfixed.
Stellantis doesn't give a rat's a$$ about recalls....I have a 2010 Challenger, and the local dealer keeps on saying "we don't know if your car is included in the recall"....
Fake news tucker Carlson said it was a scam...
...thanks Nrd515.....didn't even know about the timing chain....so now, my car will explode under the hood, and in my face....what a Christmas present this is !