Honda Motor Co is recalling another 4.5 million cars globally over faulty air bags from supplier Takata Corp., the auto maker has announced.
This new recall marks Honda's latest effort in handling a safety issue involving Takata air bags. Various firms worldwide have recalled millions of cars already over such safety concerns, and Honda's new recall deals another blow.
"The automotive industry is facing an unprecedented challenge in the recall and replacement of millions of Takata airbag inflators," reads an official announcement from Honda. "We want to assure you that Honda is committed to addressing the needs and concerns of our customers who are affected by this issue. We stand behind the safety and quality of our products. The protection of the drivers and passengers in our vehicles is our paramount concern."
Of the 4.5 million cars Honda is recalling now, 1.63 million are in the auto maker's home country of Japan. Honda says it can't provide a regional breakdown until notifying all regulators in affected nations.
Cars that come with air bag inflators from Takata Corp have been deemed unsafe, as the air bags can explode with excessive force, spewing metal and plastic fragments within vehicles and risking the safety of passengers. According to regulators, as many as eight deaths have been tied to faulty air bag inflators from Takata, and all cars were made by Honda.
The affected vehicles cover various models, including Fit small cars and CR-V crossovers in Honda's home country. The auto maker has yet to offer details of other models recalled in other markets.
Nevertheless, the new 4.5 million vehicles recalled add to the previous 4.8 million Honda included in a preventative recall back in May. Honda is not the only auto maker facing issues with Takata air bags, but it seems to be the most affected.
The problem with Takata air bag inflators continues to persist after more than a decade, and has so far affected 11 car makers including BMW and Toyota. Honda will continue to investigate on the matter, collaborating with Takata as a business partner to determine the exact source of the issue.
For more information regarding Honda's product recalls, check out the dedicated page on Honda's website.
