Audi Recalls 140,000 Vehicles for Airbag Defect

Audi has issued a recall for 139,249 sedans for faulty sensors that may prevent front passenger airbags from deploying in the event of a crash.

About the Audi Airbag Recall

According to Consumer Reports, the issue is caused by wear to the passenger occupant detection system, which is responsible for determining whether someone is sitting in the front passenger seat. If the sensor becomes worn, it may prevent the front passenger airbag from deploying during a crash.

The recall affects vehicles with standard seats. Vehicles that are equipped with upgraded seats are not affected.

The automaker says an airbag warning light will illuminate if a malfunction occurs. Additionally, the passenger airbag indicator light will show the airbag is turned off.

The following vehicles are affected by the Audi airbag recall:

• 2012 to 2015 A6 sedans built from April 4, 2011, through Dec. 23, 2014
• 2016 to 2018 A6 sedans built from Oct. 29, 2014, through April 30, 2018
• 2012 to 2015 A7 sedans built from Jan. 27, 2011, through Jan. 31, 2015
• 2016 to 2018 A7 sedans built from Oct. 31, 2014, through April 6, 2018
• 2013 to 2015 S6 sedans built from June 25, 2012, through Dec. 18, 2014
• 2016 to 2018 S6 sedans built from Feb. 6, 2015, through April 26, 2018
• 2016 to 2018 S7 sedans built from Feb. 7, 2015, through March 23, 2018
• 2013 to 2015 S7 sedans built from June 27, 2012, through Feb. 12, 2015
• 2014 to 2018 RS7 sedans built from July 25, 2013, through April 4, 2018

Common Injuries Caused by Airbag Failure

Injuries caused by a defective airbag include:

• Cuts and lacerations
• Fractures and broken bones
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Neck and spinal cord injuries
• Hearing loss
• Blindness
• Death

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 576 people were killed in automobile crashes where a front airbag did not deploy between 2001 and 2006. Of these victims, 360 would have benefited from frontal airbag protection.

Why Does Airbag Failure Occur?

There are many different causes of airbag failure, and unfortunately, airbag defects are usually only detected after an auto accident.

Airbag malfunctions can be caused by:

• Design defect
• Faulty wiring
• Loss of power prior to collision
• Manufacturing flaw
• Sensor failure

Contact an Experienced Defective Airbag Attorney

If you or a loved one suffered an injury due to a defective or faulty airbag, contact Thomas J. Henry. Our experienced vehicle recall lawyers are available 24/7, nights and weekends to provide you with a free case review. If an airbag or vehicle manufacturer’s negligence caused your airbag injury, you may be entitled to recover damages to cover medical costs, pain and suffering, and lost wages.

Our firm has offices in Corpus Christi, San Antonio, and Houston, serving clients across Texas and nationwide. Contact us today for a free legal consultation.