Investigation into Defective Japanese-Made Seat Belts

Strategic Insights -

Regulators with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration have launched an investigation into defective seat belts manufactured by Takata Inc., which were installed in approximately 6 million vehicles across the United States. The affected vehicles, produced by several major automakers, include Daihatsu, Honda, Isuzu, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Subaru, and Suzuki models from 1986 to 1991. The inquiry centers around reports that the seat belt's release button can break, causing fragments to get stuck in the buckle's receiving end, potentially leading to the belt becoming jammed or falsely latched. This issue has resulted in at least 6,799 warranty claims for repairs or replacements.

Key Takeaways:

  • The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating Japanese-made seat belts manufactured by Takata Inc. used in approximately 6 million vehicles in the United States.
  • The affected vehicles include Daihatsu, Honda, Isuzu, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Subaru, and Suzuki models from 1986 to 1991.
  • The inquiry involves Metro and Tracker vehicles from General Motors and Dodge Colts from Chrysler.
  • Regulators have not determined that the Takata seat belts are unsafe, but are investigating potential safety issues.
  • At least 6,799 warranty claims have been reported for repairs or replacements due to buckle problems.

Statistics:

  • 6 million: The approximate number of vehicles in the United States using Japanese-made seat belts manufactured by Takata Inc.
  • 6,799: The number of warranty claims for repairs or replacements due to buckle problems.
  • 1986-1991: The production period for the affected vehicle models.

Sources:

  • "Japanese Seat Belts Investigated for Defect" (no publication date mentioned)
  • Quoted statement from Jeff Caponigro, spokesman for Takata's North American headquarters in Auburn Hills, Michigan.