U.S. More than Doubles Takata Airbag Inflator Recalls

As expected, the U.S. has ordered Takata Corp. to more than double recalls involving airbag inflators that could explode in a crash. The devices have killed 11 people worldwide, including 10 in the U.S.

A dozen carmakers are already replacing nearly 29 million Takata inflators in the American market. NHTSA tells the company to prepare itself to swap an additional 35 million-40 million devices in a series of five new recall programs between now and the end of 2019.

The new callbacks expand the number of carmakers involved to 17. The campaigns will include all Takata inflators that were made without a drying agent. The desiccant is intended to prevent the inflator’s ammonium nitrate propellant from deteriorating over time, especially when exposed to hot and humid conditions.

NHTSA notes that prior recalls have targeted inflators with the greatest risk of failure. The new campaigns are structured to replace other inflators in milder climates before they become a threat to vehicle occupants.

The Takata recall is the largest and most complex in automotive history. Current recalls are being conducted in stages through a Coordinated Remedy Program NHTSA set up last year. The agency says it will consult with affected carmakers to ensure the necessary supplies of replacement inflators are available ahead of each phase in the new round of callbacks.