The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on Friday issued a “Do Not Drive” advisory for 2001 through 2003 Honda and Acura vehicles with Takata air bag inflators.
According to the agency, the risk to drivers and passengers is dire because the so-called “Alpha” inflators have a 50% chance of exploding in a crash. If the inflators blow apart, they can shoot shrapnel towards a driver’s face that could kill them or cause serious injuries.
“These inflators are two decades old now, and they pose a 50% chance of rupturing in even a minor crash,” NHTSA Acting Administrator Ann Carlson said in a statement. “Don’t gamble with your life or the life of someone you love – schedule your free repair today before it’s too late.”
Vehicles affected include the 2001 and 2002 Honda Accord and Civic, the 2002 Honda CR-V and Odyssey SUVs, the 2003 Honda Pilot, the 2002 and 2003 Acura 3.2 TL and the 2003 Acura 3.2 CL.
Owners can check to see if their cars are covered by going to www.nhtsa.gov/recalls and keying in their 17-digit vehicle identification number.
