Stellantis issues "do not drive" warning for cars with unrepaired air bags

Global automaker Stellantis issued a critical "do not drive" warning on Tuesday to owners of roughly 276,000 older vehicle models across the United States after confirming recent fatalities linked to defective Takata airbag inflators. The urgent safety alert targets specific 2005-2010 model-year Dodge Magnums, Challengers, and Chargers, as well as Chrysler 300 sedans that have not yet undergone necessary recall repairs. This directive stems from the persistent danger of the airbag's ammonium nitrate-based propellant degrading over time, particularly in hot and humid climates, which can cause the inflator to explode upon deployment. The company’s decision to escalate the warning follows reports of several tragic incidents where drivers were killed or severely injured by metal shrapnel launched from the steering wheel during minor collisions. Despite years of outreach efforts, including millions of letters and phone calls, a significant number of these high-risk vehicles remain on the road with their original, faulty equipment. Stellantis emphasizes that the risk increases every day these vehicles remain unrepaired, as the chemical stability of the older Takata components continues to weaken with age. To facilitate the mass repair effort, Stellantis has confirmed that replacement parts are readily available at dealerships nationwide, and the service will be performed free of charge for all affected owners. The company is actively coordinating with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to locate current owners and provide complimentary towing services to prevent further use of the vehicles before they are serviced. This localized effort is part of the largest automotive recall in history, which has impacted dozens of manufacturers and millions of vehicles globally over the past decade.