Recalled vehicles are subject to a defect that can cause a critical failure and lead to accidents or injuries. One of the largest recalls to ever hit the automotive industry is the ongoing Takata airbag recall. An estimated 41.6 million vehicles are under recall by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration due to defective Takata airbags. Many of those recalled models include popular pickup trucks.
The pickup truck recall models listed below have all been publicly named in the Takata airbag recall. If you own or lease one of these vehicles, please visit NHTSA.gov and enter your vehicle VIN number. This search will determine if your individual vehicle is subject to the recall. You will also find information on the next steps for replacing recalled airbags and ensuring your safety while driving in your pickup truck.
- 2007-2013 Chevrolet Avalanche
- 2007-2014 Chevrolet Silverado HD
- 2007-2013 Chevrolet Silverado LD
- 2003-2008 Dodge Ram 1500/2500/3500 Pickup
- 2005-2009 Dodge Ram 2500 Pickup
- 2007-2010 Dodge Ram 3500 Cab Chassis
- 2006-2009 Dodge Ram 3500 Pickup
- 2008-2010 Dodge Ram 4500/5500 Cab Chassis
- 2004-2011 Ford Ranger
- 2007-2014 GMC Sierra HD
- 2007-2013 GMC Sierra LD
- 2006-2014 Honda Ridgeline
- 2004-2009 Mazda B-Series
- 2003-2006 Toyota Tundra
Every vehicle owner, especially those owning models listed above, should visit the NHTSA to check their VIN for a recall. The NHTSA has announced additional airbags are scheduled to be recalled by December 2019. The VIN search does not yet include these new vehicles, so even if you are clear now, you may need to check again in a few months time. You may also sign up for a recall alert, allowing the NHTSA to notify you if they feel your vehicle is subject to a new or expanded recall.
Why The Takata Recall Matters to Pickup Truck Owners
The airbags subjected to this recall are responsible for at least 24 deaths and 300 injuries. The defect is in the airbag’s inflator. Over time, exposure to high heat and humidity can cause metal parts inside the airbag to explode and spray out into the passenger cabin if an airbag is deployed. Airbags are at increased vulnerability in geographies with persistent high humidity and temperatures. In the United States, this includes Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, the Gulf Coast states, Hawaii, and island territories. Some airbags are not currently dangerous but will need to be replaced in the future as age and exposure increase the risk of an incident.
Alpha Air Bags
Certain vehicle models are at a higher risk for an airbag explosion. The NHTSA refers to these as “Alpha Airbags.” These Alphas have been reported by some media to have a 50% risk of failure In addition to several Honda and Acura passenger vehicles, the 2006 Ford Ranger and Mazda B-Series trucks have been named as high risk from Alpha Airbags. Owners of these recalled pickup trucks are advised not to drive their vehicle until the defective airbags have been replaced.
Airbag Shortages and Delays
Because of the volume of vehicles affected, some owners may find it takes several weeks for their replacement airbags to arrive. Vehicle owners in northern, less-humid climates may be prioritized below those in more humid and high-risk areas. Vehicles with Alpha Air Bags have the highest priority for immediate repairs.
Why does GoShare care?
Why does GoShare care about keeping pickup truck drivers safe on the roads? At GoShare, we love pickup trucks and their owners! We love them so much, we built an app to help connect pickup truck owners and everyday people for their delivery and moving needs.
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Additional Reading
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