Volkswagen is recalling almost 42,000 Beetles in the United States and Canada because their Takata air bag inflators may be harmful.
The recall affects 2015 and 2016 model year Volkswagen Beetles. In documents published on Friday, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that the inflators can detonate with excessive force and launch shrapnel.
Takata utilized ammonium nitrate to produce a tiny explosion to inflate air bags in the event of a collision. However, the chemical can degrade when exposed to high temperatures and humidity over time.
At least 33 individuals worldwide have been killed by exploding air bags since 2009, including 24 in the United States.
Dealers will replace the Beetle’s driver air bag. Owners will be contacted via letter beginning on February 17.
The air bags of the Volkswagen Beetle include a substance that absorbs moisture and slows the decomposition of ammonium nitrate. However, VW and the U.S. government have agreed to recall the vehicles in 2020.
»Volkswagen is recalling 42,000 Beetles to fix potentially hazardous Takata air bags«