US drivers warned of dangerous air bag replacements in used cars

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a warning to drivers regarding the dangers of using "cheap, substandard replacement air bag inflators" in used cars. This caution comes after three fatalities and two severe injuries occurred in the past nine months due to faulty aftermarket air bag inflators. The NHTSA emphasized the importance of knowing a vehicle's history and ensuring genuine air bag inflators are installed to prevent serious harm in the event of a crash. In all reported cases of fatalities or injuries, the vehicles had previously been in accidents, leading to the replacement of the original airbags with substandard inflators. The malfunctioning airbag inflators were found to release large metal fragments, causing fatal injuries to drivers in otherwise survivable accidents. Additionally, some cheap inflators may deploy inadequately, potentially causing occupants to strike the dashboard or steering wheel during a collision. To safeguard against these risks, the NHTSA advised individuals in the market for a used vehicle to obtain a comprehensive vehicle history report. This step is crucial for identifying any past incidents involving the vehicle and ensuring the presence of genuine air bag inflators. By taking proactive measures to verify the safety features of a used car, drivers can mitigate the potential dangers associated with substandard air bag inflators and protect themselves from serious harm in the event of a crash.