Newsroom
A recalled vehicle equipped with a faulty Takata airbag was involved in a serious accident last week, raising fresh concerns over the ongoing safety risks of these defective airbags. The incident, highlighted on the television program Alpha Update, showcased shocking images of the damaged vehicle and featured an explanation from mechanical engineer Panos Kestas.
According to Kestas, the accident itself was not the main issue—rather, it was what happened when the airbag deployed. While the airbags functioned as expected and protected both the driver and passenger, the airbag in the steering wheel had corroded over time. This corrosion, worsened by moisture, caused fragments from the airbag to break off and shoot upwards when it deployed.
"One or two fragments were thrown onto the roof," Kestas explained. "Luckily, the driver was tall, and his seat was positioned far back. The debris passed in front of him and pierced the roof instead of hitting him."
The vehicle suffered heavy front-end damage, but no injuries were reported. However, the situation could have been far worse. The Takata airbag crisis has been an ongoing issue worldwide, with millions of vehicles recalled due to the risk of explosive deployment, which can send metal fragments into the cabin.
This latest case underscores the importance of checking for open recalls and ensuring that faulty airbags are replaced. Vehicle owners are urged to visit their manufacturer’s website or contact local dealerships to verify whether their car is affected by the recall.
