What Cars Have A Takata Airbag

The Takata airbag recall stands as the largest and most complex automotive recall in history. Understanding which vehicles are affected, and why, is crucial for safety, vehicle maintenance, and even impacting resale value. This article will provide a detailed look into the Takata airbag issue, focusing on how to identify affected vehicles, understand the risks involved, and take appropriate action. We'll delve into the technical aspects of these airbags and offer practical advice for troubleshooting and ensuring your vehicle's safety systems are functioning correctly.

Purpose of Understanding the Takata Airbag Recall

Why does this matter? The Takata airbag recall isn't just about replacing a part; it's about mitigating a potentially life-threatening risk. Defective Takata airbags, specifically those using ammonium nitrate as a propellant without a chemical drying agent, can degrade over time, especially in areas with high humidity and fluctuating temperatures. This degradation can lead to the propellant exploding with excessive force during airbag deployment. The excessive force can rupture the inflator housing, sending metal fragments hurtling into the vehicle cabin. Understanding the specifics of the recall allows you to:

Ensure your vehicle isn't affected.
Recognize the symptoms of potential airbag malfunction.
Take proactive steps to schedule a free repair (if applicable).
Avoid buying a potentially unsafe vehicle on the used market.

Key Specs and Main Parts of a Takata Airbag System

The core issue lies within the airbag inflator. While various models exist, the problematic ones share the use of ammonium nitrate (NH₄NO₃) as a propellant. Let's break down the key components:

Airbag Module: This is the complete unit that houses the folded airbag, inflator, and cover. It's typically located in the steering wheel (driver-side) and dashboard (passenger-side).
Inflator: This is the heart of the system. It contains the ammonium nitrate propellant and an igniter. When triggered by the airbag control unit (ACU), the igniter rapidly heats the propellant, generating a large volume of gas.
Ammonium Nitrate (NH₄NO₃): The chemical compound used as the propellant. The problem lies in its tendency to degrade when exposed to moisture and heat, making it unstable.
Igniter: A small explosive charge that initiates the propellant's combustion.
Airbag Control Unit (ACU): Also known as the airbag electronic control unit (ECU). This unit monitors sensors throughout the vehicle for sudden deceleration (indicating a collision). If a collision is detected and meets certain criteria, the ACU sends a signal to the inflator, triggering airbag deployment.
Clockspring: A coiled ribbon cable that allows the steering wheel to rotate while maintaining an electrical connection to the airbag module and other steering wheel-mounted controls.

How the Takata Airbag System Works

In a collision, sensors detect a rapid deceleration. This information is relayed to the ACU. The ACU analyzes the data and, if the collision meets the deployment threshold, sends an electrical signal to the igniter in the airbag inflator. The igniter sets off the ammonium nitrate propellant. The rapid combustion of the propellant generates a large volume of nitrogen gas (N₂). This gas rapidly inflates the airbag, creating a cushion to protect the occupant from impacting the steering wheel, dashboard, or windshield.

The defective Takata inflators, however, can malfunction. As mentioned earlier, the ammonium nitrate propellant degrades over time, particularly in hot and humid climates. This degradation can cause the propellant to burn too quickly and intensely, leading to:

Over-pressurization: The inflator generates excessive gas pressure.
Inflator Rupture: The inflator housing can't withstand the over-pressurization and shatters.
Metal Fragmentation: The shattered inflator housing sends metal fragments flying into the vehicle cabin, posing a significant risk of serious injury or death.

Real-World Use – Basic Troubleshooting Tips

Diagnosing a Takata airbag issue before it deploys is difficult. However, some signs may indicate a potential problem:

Airbag Warning Light: A persistent airbag warning light on your dashboard is the most common indicator of a problem within the airbag system. This could be related to the inflator, the ACU, or other components. A diagnostic scan with an OBD-II scanner that reads SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) codes is necessary to identify the specific fault.
Unusual Noises: Although rare, some people report hearing unusual noises (clicking, rattling) coming from the steering wheel or dashboard area, which could potentially be related to a degrading inflator.
Vehicle History: Check your vehicle's VIN on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website (nhtsa.gov) to see if it's subject to the Takata airbag recall.

Troubleshooting Caveats: Do not attempt to disassemble or repair any part of the airbag system yourself unless you are a qualified and trained technician. Airbag systems contain explosive components and improper handling can lead to accidental deployment and serious injury. Diagnostic scanners can read codes from the SRS, but interpreting these codes and performing repairs should be left to professionals.

Safety – Highlighting Risky Components

The most risky component is undoubtedly the airbag inflator containing the ammonium nitrate propellant. Never attempt to tamper with or disassemble an airbag module. These components are designed to deploy rapidly with significant force. Mishandling can lead to accidental deployment, causing serious injury. Always disconnect the vehicle's battery and wait at least 10 minutes before working on or near any airbag components. This allows the capacitors in the airbag system to discharge, reducing the risk of accidental deployment.

When working on any electrical components in the car, especially when the SRS is involved, always disconnect the negative terminal on the battery first. Wait several minutes before continuing to ensure residual current in the capacitors has discharged.

The clockspring, while not directly related to the Takata issue, can also be problematic if mishandled. Damaging the clockspring can interrupt the electrical connection to the airbag, rendering it inoperable. Replacing the clockspring often requires specialized tools and knowledge to ensure proper centering and prevent damage to the wiring.

Affected Vehicles

Listing every affected vehicle is beyond the scope of this article and would quickly become outdated. The best and most reliable way to determine if your vehicle is affected is to enter your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on the NHTSA website (nhtsa.gov/recalls). NHTSA maintains an up-to-date database of all recalls, including the Takata airbag recall.

However, broadly speaking, the Takata airbag recall affected vehicles from a wide range of manufacturers, including but not limited to:

Acura
BMW
Chrysler
Daimler Trucks North America
Ferrari
Ford
General Motors (GM)
Honda
Infiniti
Mazda
Mitsubishi
Nissan
Subaru
Toyota

The recall primarily involves vehicles manufactured between 2002 and 2015, but some models outside this range may also be affected. Again, checking your VIN on the NHTSA website is crucial.

Conclusion

The Takata airbag recall remains a serious issue, and understanding the risks and knowing how to check your vehicle is paramount. Regular maintenance, adherence to recall notices, and prioritizing safety are crucial. Remember, a seemingly small issue with your vehicle's airbag system could have life-altering consequences. If you suspect a problem, consult a qualified mechanic immediately. Your safety is the top priority.