Takata is broke and it is unknown if any company would take it over.
FCA US will stop production of vehicles equipped with non-desiccated ammonium-nitrate Takata air-bag inflators, by next week in NAFTA markets. Global production is expected to end by mid-September. The 2016 Jeep Wrangler’s passenger-side inflator is the final FCA US air-bag component to migrate from a non-desiccated ammonium-nitrate design. The Company is unaware of any failures involving this inflator.
Unsold FCA vehicles that are so-equipped will be identified for customers. These customers will also be advised that the vehicles will be recalled in the future. They are not currently subject to recall. Takata inflators have been tied to at least ten deaths and more than 100 injuries so far in the United States.
The recall numbers – tens upon tens of millions at more than 12 automakers – and corresponding expenses are now so large that at least one company – General Motors – is questioning the need for the ongoing expansion mandatory repairs by NHTSA of vehicles with Takata airbag inflators.
Most inflators used in FCA US vehicles employ alternate propellants. Others use desiccant-enhanced ammonium nitrate. Neither is associated with any inflator ruptures attributed non-desiccated ammonium-nitrate inflators.
The 2016 Jeep Wrangler’s passenger-side inflator is the final FCA US air-bag component to migrate from a non-desiccated ammonium-nitrate design. The Company is unaware of any failures with this inflator.
FCA says tests were performed on nearly 6,300 older versions of this component, many of which were subject to potentially problematic climates – high temperatures and humidity. All performed as intended.
Coordinated Remedy Program
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has specified a recall schedule for vehicles equipped with these inflators. The schedule, known as the Coordinated Remedy Program, adheres to the findings of an investigation by industry, government and third-party experts.
The investigation said non-desiccated ammonium nitrate may degrade after several years of exposure to high absolute humidity. Such degradation may cause inflators to deploy with excessive force.
Customers with questions or concerns may call FCA at 1-800-853-1403.
