Kia is issuing an auto defect recall involving 150,000 vehicles due to airbag problems. According to a news report in the Los Angeles Times, the South Korean automaker is recalling 2006-2008 Optima sedans and Rondo crossover utility vehicles because of a defect that could prevent the driver’s side airbag from deploying in the event of a crash. The company no longer sells the Rondo models.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the clock-spring assembly that is used in these airbag systems can become damaged over time and prevent the airbag from deploying. The problem causes the airbag warning light to illuminate in the affected vehicles. Kia officials say they learned of the problem in November. Company officials say no accidents or injuries have been reported as a result of these defects. I trust NHTSA officials are looking into when the auto maker became aware of these product defects and if they did in fact issue a timely recall.

The Dangers of Defective Airbags

Airbag defects can result in catastrophic injuries or even death. Defective airbags could fail to deploy or deploy suddenly and inadvertently. Both types of airbag defects are extremely dangerous and have the potential for major injuries. In this particular case, the vehicle defect can cause the driver’s side airbag to become damaged and not deploy. As drivers, we have come to depend on airbags to give us that extra layer of protection in the event of a crash. Over the last two years, Honda Motor Company has recalled millions of vehicles because of defective airbags that can burst and send pieces of metal and plastic flying inside the vehicle. So far two deaths have been reported in connection with defective Honda airbags.

Auto Product Liability Issues

If you or someone you love has been seriously injured as a result of an airbag defect or any other auto product defect, please consult with a reputed California personal injury lawyer who has an excellent track record with auto products liability cases. It would be in your best interest to preserve the vehicle in its current condition, unaltered, so an expert can examine it thoroughly for evidence of defects and malfunctions. The best auto product defect law firms will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation to injured victims and their families.