All Investigations » Investigation EA03010

  Defect Investigation of Frontal Air Bag Non-deployment In Crash

Investigation of Frontal Air Bag Non-deployment In Crash

Subject: Frontal air bag non-deployment in crash
Components covered:
  • Front air bags
Investigations Summary: This investigation was opened on Jul. 2, 2003. It was closed on Jun. 23, 2004. This investigation identified a total of 427 reports alleging non-deployment of the frontal air bags. Of the 427 reports, two incidents (fatal crashes) have been identified as severe frontal crashes in which the frontal air bags did not deploy. A defect trend has not been identified at this time. Further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted. Accordingly, this investigation is closed. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist. The agency will take further action if warranted by the circumstances. See attached summary report.
Vehicles Affected by this investigation:
  • 2000 Ford Taurus
  • 2001 Ford Taurus
  • 2000 Mercury Sable
  • 2001 Mercury Sable

    Other investigations related to Ford vehicles

  Defect investigation of door latch failure

  Defect investigation of wheel separation

  Defect investigation of front brake hose failure

  Defect investigation of air bag inflator rupture

  Defect investigation of electric powertrain propulsion failure