Subaru is renowned for its commitment to safety. However, a recent recall has raised concerns among owners of several of the auto company’s vehicles.
The Japanese automaker recalled 118,000 vehicles over issues related to their airbag sensors. According to Subaru, the affected vehicles have defective occupant detection sensors (ODS). If the ODS fails, the vehicle turns off the airbag even during a collision because it can’t detect whether there’s a person seated in the passenger seat.
The recall affects Subaru’s Outback station wagons and Legacy sedans from the 2020 to 2022 model years.
Reports noted that automotive supplier Aisin made the sensors. Aisin had also provided the sensors to Toyota and Honda, which had to recall vehicles over the same issue. Subaru is aware of 253 warranty claims related to the issue, but no injuries were reported.
Subaru has recommended that the owners of the affected vehicles wait for a free fix from their local dealerships. The company may also reimburse owners who paid for the repair out of their own pockets.
The danger of a defective airbag sensor
The ODS plays a critical role in passenger protection during a collision. A malfunctioning ODS may not recognize a seated passenger, resulting in the airbag not deploying during an accident. This increases the risk of severe injuries, including head trauma, chest injuries, and fractures.
In a severe collision, a malfunctioning airbag sensor could mean a passenger might suffer fatal impact injuries.
Defective sensors as grounds for legal recourse
If you’ve been injured due to a non-deploying airbag in one of the affected Subaru models, you may have grounds for a product liability claim under Minnesota law.
To file a claim, it’s important to:
- Seek medical attention at once for your injuries.
- Preserve evidence of the defect, including taking photos and keeping vehicle repair records.
- Consult with a personal injury attorney experienced in product liability cases. They can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.
Owners of the affected models should promptly follow the recall instructions to have their vehicles repaired. If you or a loved one suffers injuries because of this defect, consider filing a lawsuit against the manufacturer for damages. Because these lawsuits can get complicated, especially if they head to court, a legal professional may be helpful.