NHTSA Threatens to Force Expanded Takata Airbag Recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says it is preparing to seek court orders if necessary to force airbag supplier Takata Corp. and three carmakers BMW, Chrysler and Ford to widen recalls to replace airbag inflators that could explode.

The expanded recalls would add about 5 million vehicles to those already called back by the three carmakers in high-humidity states and U.S. territories.

Last month NHTSA asked five vehicle manufacturers to broaden their regional recalls of driver-side Takata airbags to nationwide campaigns. So far only Honda and Mazda have complied.

Deputy Chief David Friedman tell reporters NHTSA will initiate court-ordered recalls if the three remaining carmakers don't comply voluntarily. Such a process, which can take months, involves a formal demand letter and public hearings before the agency can file a lawsuit in U.S. District Court.