In association with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. has issued a recall for a total of 193,936 vehicles. As reported in an Associated Press article posted on USA Today, the cars and SUVs included in the recall may have a defective airbag sensor for the front-passenger seat (OCS sensor).
The Suzuki recall affects 2006 through 2011 model Grand Vitara SUVs and 2007 through 2011 model year SX4 cars. The affected sensors measure the weight of the passenger in order to determine if the passenger’s air bag should be deployed. In the event that a child or small adult is in the passenger’s seat, it is best that the airbag not deploy, as this could lead to serious injuries.
Consistent use of the passenger’s seat compromises the function of the OCS sensors, which could fail and cause the airbags to deploy no matter who is sitting in the front-passenger seat.
Suzuki plans on beginning the recall in October 2013; however, there are currently not enough replacement parts to cover all potentially affected vehicles. As such, a second recall notification will be sent out when more replacement parts come in. Suzuki dealers will replace the front seat cushion assembly that contains the OCS sensor mat without charge. Recall information can be found by calling Suzuki at (800) 934-0934 and inquiring about the recall campaign number VD.
More information about this recall from the NHTSA can be found at:
http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/acms/cs/jaxrs/download/doc/UCM444280/RCAK-13V405-1325.PDF
In the event that you are injured by a defective airbag, you may be able to seek compensation for your losses from the responsible automakers or other manufacturers. By calling the legal team at Blume Forte at 973-845-4421, you can receive a no-cost consultation that will help you better understand your options and rights.