For the third time Infiniti is recalling both FX35 and FX45 SUVs for potential passenger side airbag defects. This recall includes some of the 2006 through 2008 FX35 and FX45 SUVs that previously had their passenger-side airbags replaced as the result of an earlier recall. The replacement airbags could tear during deployment and cause severe injuries to passengers, so they must be replaced again.
This is the third time these vehicles have been included in an airbag-related recall. The initial recall was also for the FX35 and FX45 and happened in 2016. It was determined the replacement airbags could explode during a crash and propel sharp metal fragments at vehicle occupants. As a result of parts shortages, these vehicles received temporary replacement airbag inflators which were later swapped for supposedly permanent replacements as the result of a January 2020 recall. The permanent replacement now turn out to be defective as well. Quality control tests performed by the airbag supplier showed that a small change in how the airbags were assembled at the factory puts them at risk of rupture.
Documentation provided to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reveals the automaker is unaware of any crashes or injuries related to this latest recall. The recall includes specific Infiniti FX35 and FX45 SUVs model years 2006 through 2008 which previously had passenger-side airbags replacement. A change in how the replacement airbags were folded at the airbag supplier’s factory means they could rupture during deployment. Infiniti dealerships will replace the faulty airbags free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 18, 2021.
You can check to see if your vehicle has an active recall by visiting the NHTSA’s website which can tell you if your vehicle has any recalls that need to be addressed.
You will need to visit the NHTSA website and enter your car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) and if a recall notice doesn’t appear, it means your vehicle doesn’t currently have any open recalls. Due to the fact that automakers issue recalls often, and for many older vehicles, we recommend you check periodically to see if your vehicle has a recall issued.
