Toyota has yet again found itself in a tight position after having to recall 1.6 million cars in Japan to replace inflators from Takata Corp.
The interesting thing about this story is the fact that Toyota previously claimed these inflators were safe. The reason for the recall isn't clear at the moment, but it is probably a good move because the suspected faulty airbag can lead to serious consequences.
Takata has been the center of a long and an encompassing recall process that spans several automakers in the United States and other parts of the world. Furthermore, the company was hit recently with a record fine for its defect
At the center of the matter, is the airbag problems, which is probably why Toyota is taking extra care since Takata has been hit with so many problems regarding airbags in recent times.
Initial inspection of the ammonium nitrate in the Takata airbags of several automakers, including Toyota, was free of any leaks or any defect. The test deemed the inflators are safe and not in need of replacement, thus, were passed to be issued to consumers.
According to regulators, the airbags might deploy with so much force that it can burst and hurt or even kill a person. So far, eight deaths have been linked to the Takata airbags, and surely, Toyota does not want its drivers to be part of the statistic on injury, or worse, casualty.
Takata still has to release an official statement on what really causes the problems with the inflator. On the other hand, the automakers said that, for new car models, they will refrain from using ammonium nitrate inflators made by Takata.
The first recall took place in May and June of this year. The recalled vehicles were manufactured between 2003 and 2008.
For now, no one is certain if the recalls will take place outside of Japan. However, it is possible this might happen if investigations prove that some of the cars that entered other countries are affected.
