NHTSA Warns Ford and Mazda Pickup Truck Owners of Dangerous Defect

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued a serious warning for vehicle owners with 2006 Ford Ranger and 2006 Mazda B-Series pickup trucks. Both vehicles are under recall because they contain defective Takata airbag inflators, which can rupture and spew metal shrapnel into passenger cabins.

The Takata airbag inflators in these vehicles have an increased chance of rupturing. Due to this heightened risk, NHTSA issued a “do not drive warning” for vehicle owners. It is the second time NHTSA issued the warning for Ford and Mazda pickup truck owners.

What If I Am Affected by NHTSA’s Do Not Drive Warning?

If you have a 2006 Ford Ranger or 2006 Mazda B-Series truck, then you should take it to your nearest dealership for repairs. Automakers must fix your vehicle at no cost if it contains unfixed recalls. You should check NHTSA’s website to determine whether NHTSA’s do not drive warning affects your vehicle. To check the recall status of your vehicle, grab your 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) and type it into NHTSA’s website.

Unfortunately, it is too dangerous to drive these vehicles to the dealership. Ford and Mazda are offering free towing services for vehicle owners. In addition, Ford announced it can send mobile repair teams to the homes of vehicle owners. You may be able to secure a loaner vehicle if the repairs are expected to take a long time.

More than 33,300 2006 Ford Rangers and 2,205 Mazda B-Series pickup trucks are affected by the do not drive warning. NHTSA says that only half of these vehicles received repairs, hence the second warning.

Compensation for Auto Defect Injuries and Deaths

If a defective vehicle caused you or a loved one to suffer harm, then the Washington DC auto defect attorneys at Regan Zambri Long PLLC can help you determine if it is possible to recover compensation. You can reach us by calling (202) 463-3030 or by using our online case review form.