US bans Chinese airbags that send shrapnel into drivers’ faces

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has officially recognized airbag inflators manufactured by the Chinese company Jilin Province Detiannuo Safety Technology Co., Ltd (DTN) as defective and has initiated a procedure for their complete ban in the country. According to the investigation, 12 cases of rupture of gas generators were recorded, as a result of which 10 people received injuries incompatible with life. Two more were seriously injured.

In all episodes, drivers or passengers were injured by metal fragments in the chest, neck and face. The problem is compounded by the fact that these components entered the United States unofficially. NHTSA says unknown importers are importing them “probably illegally” for resale to auto repair shops. All known incidents occurred in the Chevrolet Malibu and Hyundai Sonata, but officials do not rule out that the risk extends to other models. A characteristic detail: many of these cars were restored after an accident.

NHTSA will make a final decision on the ban following a public comment process. DTN can still dispute the claims, but there is little chance of avoiding bankruptcy: lawsuits have already been filed against the company. Lawyer Andrew Parker Felix, representing the families of three people who suffered non-life-threatening injuries, compared the deployment of these airbags to the explosion of a grenade.

Owners of used cars, especially damaged ones and those restored after 2020, are strongly advised to immediately check the origin of the airbags. If DTN parts are found, it is dangerous to drive such a car. Found copies are advised to be handed over to the FBI. The problem is that without special equipment it is almost impossible to understand which gas generator is hidden behind the decorative panel.

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