A massive, ongoing automotive safety crisis continues to put millions of drivers at risk. The Takata airbag recall, one of the largest and most complex in U.S. history, remains active, with potentially deadly consequences for owners of affected vehicles. The issue: defective airbags can explode when deployed, showering occupants with shrapnel and causing severe injuries or fatalities.
The Scope of the Problem
The recall began in 2008 and now encompasses roughly 67 million airbags installed in tens of millions of vehicles. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that prolonged exposure to heat and humidity degrades the airbag propellant, making them unstable. Automakers and NHTSA have issued “Do Not Drive” warnings for high-risk models, urging owners to get them repaired immediately. Despite these efforts, many unrepaired vehicles remain on the roads, posing an ongoing threat.
This isn’t just a matter of inconvenience. The risk of catastrophic airbag failure is real, and the consequences are life-altering. The recall highlights the potential for systemic failures in automotive safety and the challenges of tracking down and fixing defects across decades-old vehicle populations.
Current Warnings and Affected Vehicles
Recently, Stellantis (Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, etc.) issued another “Do Not Drive” warning for approximately 225,000 older vehicles still awaiting repair. However, the issue extends far beyond one manufacturer. The following list details models with particularly high-risk airbags that should be inspected and repaired immediately. This list is also available on the NHTSA website for the most up-to-date information.
Affected Vehicles by Brand:
- Acura: 2002–2003 TL, 2003 CL
- BMW: 2000–2006 3-series (including M3), 2000–2003 5-series (including M5), 2000–2004 X5
- Chrysler: 2007–2009 Aspen, 2005–2015 300, 2007–2008 Crossfire
- Dodge: 2005–2012 Dakota, 2005–2008 Magnum, 2006–2015 Charger, 2008–2014 Challenger, 2004–2009 Durango, 2003–2016 Ram 1500, 2003–2016 Sprinter
- Ford: Certain 2004–2011 Ranger, 2005–2006 GT, 2005–2014 Mustang, 2006–2012 Fusion, 2006–2012 Lincoln MKZ/Zephyr, 2006–2012 Mercury Milan, 2007–2010 Edge, 2007–2010 Lincoln MKX
- Honda: 2001–2002 Accord, 2001–2002 Civic, 2002 CR-V, 2002 Odyssey, 2003 Pilot
- Infiniti: Certain 2002–2003 QX4
- Jeep: 2007–2016 Wrangler
- Mazda: Certain 2004–2009 B-series, 2003–2013 Mazda 6, 2006–2007 Speed6, 2004–2011 RX-8, 2004–2006 MPV, 2007–2012 CX-7, 2007–2015 CX-9
- Mitsubishi: 2006–2009 Raider
- Nissan: Certain 2002–2006 Sentras, Certain 2002–2004 Pathfinders
- Pontiac: Certain 2003–2004 Vibes
- Toyota: Certain 2004–2005 RAV4s, Certain 2003–2004 Corollas (including Matrix)
What to Do Now
If your vehicle is on this list, stop driving it immediately. Contact your local dealership
