Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F) has issued an urgent "do-not-drive" advisory on Tuesday for certain vehicles still affected by the ongoing Takata airbag recalls. The automaker is strongly urging owners of these vehicles to contact their local dealerships immediately to arrange for necessary repairs.
Affected Models and the Scope of the Recall
The recall encompasses a range of Ford models, including the Ranger trucks, Mustang and GT sports cars, Fusion sedans, and various SUVs like the popular Edge model, among others. These vehicles are part of the larger recall effort addressing the defective Takata airbag inflators, which have been linked to serious safety risks.
The Takata Airbag Crisis
The Takata airbag recall is one of the most significant safety recalls in automotive history. Since the crisis emerged in 2009, more than 30 fatalities, including at least 26 in the United States, and hundreds of injuries have been attributed to the defective airbags. The issue stems from the inflators, which can explode with excessive force during a crash, sending metal fragments into the vehicle's cabin.
To date, over 100 million vehicles equipped with Takata airbags have been recalled globally. The scale and severity of the issue ultimately led to Takata filing for bankruptcy in 2017.
Ford's Urgent Call to Action
In light of the ongoing danger, Ford is emphasizing the importance of addressing the issue immediately. The company is advising affected vehicle owners not to drive their vehicles until the airbags are replaced. Ford is offering free repairs and is urging customers to take advantage of this service without delay.
Given the critical nature of this recall, it is essential for owners of the affected models to check their vehicle's recall status and act swiftly to ensure their safety.