Audi Recalls A3, S3 Over Defective Front Airbags
Takata not to blame in this instance.
Another week, another airbag-related recall—or so it seems. Despite what you may be suspecting, it's not Takata's fault this time. According to a report from Carscoops, Audi is recalling 11,618 A3 and S3 models over defective front passenger airbags. To be more specific, "in a lower-speed crash situation, the airbag control unit software may deploy the passenger frontal airbag improperly, if the front seat passenger is sitting on the edge of the seat, or is laying in the seat with the seat reclined." Audi is blaming South Carolina-based supplier Continental Corporation for the flaw and says that a software update will be available from dealers free of charge.
This recall affects Audi A3 models made from July 7, 2016 to January 30, 2017 and S3 models made from July 20, 2016 to January 12, 2017. If you own a 2017 A3 or S3 and have concerns, you are encouraged to contact NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236 or Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834.
Airbags were first invented over 60 years ago, and are widely and rightfully hailed as one of the greatest advancements in automotive safety and engineering. Considering the technology's age and vitality to the well-being of a car's occupants, you'd think automakers and suppliers would have this stuff down pat by now.
