Vehicle owners should check for open recalls following three deaths this year related to the faulty Japanese-made Takata Air Bag safety system.
The latest warning comes after a fatal crash involving a 2006 Ford Ranger in which the Takata driver's side air bag inflator ruptured and blew out shrapnel. The Ford Ranger already was under a "do not drive" warning, according to a Nov. 17 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration news release.
"We need everyone to check right now for open Takata recalls – and if you have one, to schedule an appointment at your dealership immediately for a repair," NHTSA Acting Administrator Ann Carlson said in the release. "Every day that passes when you don't get a recalled air bag replaced puts you and your family at greater risk of injury or death."
A vehicle found to have an open recall should be taken to the vehicle's local dealer for a free recall repair, the release reported. Even minor crashes can result in injury or death. Drivers are warned older vehicles with older airbags put occupants at higher risk.
"Don't let an open recall cost you or your passengers your lives,” Carlson said.
Anyone who feels a defect in their vehicle isn't part of a recall may call NHTSA's Vehicle Safety Hotline 8 a.m.-8 p.m. ET Monday through Friday at 888-327-4236 or by visiting the recall page on the administration's website.
