Frustration builds are drivers wait for arrival of recalled airbag parts
HOUSTON (KTRK) -- More than 100 people have been hurt by the inflators which can explode with too much force, and will send debris into drivers and passengers. So far 14 automakers have recalled 24 million US vehicles to replace the inflators, which are powered by the chemical ammonium nitrate. Scientists say long exposure to moisture in the air and high temperatures can cause the chemical to deteriorate, forcing it to explode.
But some people are getting frustrated with the length of time automakers say it'll take to make the proper repairs to their airbags.
"I'm calling because I received a safety recall notice."
That's how Honda owner, Susan York's phone call began Thursday afternoon, as she called Honda's corporate office and her dealership, with questions about her 2010 Honda CR-V. It's now involved in the massive recall of Takata airbag inflators.
She saw the news story of the Fort Bend County teenager, who died in a recalled vehicle, and she made it a priority to call.
York discovered her Honda dealership can't fix the car right away, but can provide a free vehicle in the meantime.
Honda has a variety of vehicles on the recall list. For many, repairs are available, but for those cars not recalled until February of this year, the parts aren't yet ready.
Information released at the time of the February recall said parts would be available this summer, but Honda has updated the timeline, in a statement, saying in part:
An initial supply of replacement inflators for the recall announced in February 2016 has been distributed to dealers and will begin arriving over the next few days. Honda is taking action to accelerate this supply."
York says for the safety of her family, and herself, she'll have the repair as soon as possible.
"This is something I do not want to go through by myself, but especially not with my grandchildren in the car," said York.
Check NHTSA'S website to see if your car is affected by the recall.
