Continental to NHTSA: 5m cars may have faulty airbags

The Takata airbag debacle is still underway, but when it rains, it pours. Continental Automotive Systems has informed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration of potentially faulty electronic airbag systems that could result in airbags deploying when they shouldn't or failing to deploy when they should. According to the supplier, 5 million vehicles feature the potentially faulty systems.

Continental is part of Continental AG of Germany, and it has informed the NHTSA that it provided airbag control units found to possibly be defective to several auto makers who ultimately placed them in about 5 million cars. The auto makers include Mercedes-Benz, Honda, Fiat Chrysler, and more.

The units were made from 2006 on through 2010, according to Reuters; unfortunately, there are reports of injuries resulting from the defect. Honda, which has already been heavily affected by the Takata issue, will have to recall 341,000 Accord vehicles of the 2008 to 2010 model years. There have been 1,575 warranty claims, two reports of injuries, 83 field reports, and more.

Unfortunately, Honda has reportedly told dealerships that parts are in very short supply until this upcoming autumn, and so for now it will order the replacements for cars with airbag troubles or crash damage. The repairs will then expand later this year.

As well, Chrysler will be recalling 112,000 cars in the US; it isn't clear how many vehicles other auto makers will be recalling.

SOURCE: Reuters