Ford has recalled close to one million vehicles around the world to replace defective Takata airbag inflators. The Detroit Free Press reports that the vehicles have been recalled due to a risk of flying shrapnel caused by exploding airbag inflators. Takata used the chemical, ammonium nitrate, to create an explosion to inflate airbags. However, it can deteriorate over time due to heat and humidity. When the ammonium nitrate has deteriorated, it will explode with too much force and blow apart the metal canister designed to contain the explosion. Hundreds of people have been injured by the shrapnel from these airbags and at least twenty-three people have been killed worldwide.
The Ford and Lincoln vehicles named in the recall are as follows:
• Ford Edge, 2010
• Lincoln MKX, 2010
• Ford Ranger, 2010 and 2011
• Ford Fusion, 2010 to 2012
• Lincoln MKZ, 2010 to 2012
• Mercury Milan, 2010 and 2011
• Ford Mustang, 2010 to 2014
Although Ford said it has not received reports of injuries involving these vehicles, Ford urges consumers to get their vehicles to dealers as soon as possible for replacement. Dealers will replace the passenger frontal airbag inflator or module in these vehicles at zero cost.
If you or someone you know has been injured by a recalled vehicle, an automobile defect, or another product defect, contact an experienced attorney at Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner by calling (713) 222-7211 or toll free at 713-222-7211.