The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently issued a second public request to the owners of MY 2006 Ford Rangers and Mazda B-Series trucks as many of these trucks have defective Takata airbags which have not been replaced and are under a “do not drive” warning.
Only 49.2 percent of the 33,320 impacted Ford Rangers and 58 percent of the 2,205 impacted Mazda trucks have been repaired, according to the automakers. Dealers have authorized to make the repairs for free.
“NHTSA’s number one priority is making sure that everyone is safe on our roads,” Heidi King, NHTSA deputy administrator, said. “I cannot stress strongly enough the urgency of this recall – these airbags are dangerous. Every vehicle must be accounted for now.”
The NHTSA is asking safety advocates and the public to help reach the owners of the recalled vehicles. Media outlets in 22 cities also have been notified.
Takata airbags are being replaced according to a priority group.
The NHTSA also urges drivers to visit NHTSA.gov. Using the Vehicle Identification Number, drivers can search for recalls for their vehicles. Drivers should check for recalls twice a year, NHTSA said.
Drivers also can sign up for email alerts to be notified of future recalls.