Toyota recalls 1.7 million North American vehicles over potentially deadly airbag inflators

The Takata Airbag Safety Recall is the largest in the history of the automotive industry.

More than 19 automakers recalled tens of millions of defective airbags as it can cause severe injury or death if a driver is involved in an accident.

Takata inflators can explode with too much force and hurl shrapnel into drivers and passengers. Worldwide, 23 people have been killed and hundreds injured.

Toyota assured their customers that the repair process is entirely free and the most vehicles will be serviced in under an hour.

That said, customers should consider their dealer's schedule, but the actual repair is quick and easy.

Toyota also arranged for free loaner vehicles and free vehicle pick up if required, and customers are urged to call a Toyota agent and book a repair ASAP.

The repair includes the replacement of the front passenger airbag inflators and it was announced on Wednesday that approximately 1.7 million are to be serviced.

"If you own a Toyota, Scion or Lexus manufactured between 2003 and 2013; your vehicle may be subject to a Safety Recall for the Takata Front Passenger Airbag Inflator or Takata Driver's Airbag Inflator."

Customers can confirm on Toyota's website if their vehicle is due for airbag repair by merely looking up the license plate number on VIN.

The fault in the airbags came to light when the U.S National Highway Traffic Safety Administration took over management of recalls three years ago.

A report indicated that 16.7 million faulty inflators out of 50 million under recall have yet to be fixed and drivers are urged to treat this warning as serious.

Toyota also issued a safety recall for the 2019 model Ford Ecosport earlier this year due to the front seats not being welded properly.

An unsecured seat could lead to injury or death during an accident or collision. Thankfully, the company is not aware of any injuries resulting from this defect.

Read more on our Twitter account on @amomama_usa.