NHTSA Weighs Permanent Ban on Lethal DTN Air Bag Inflators

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is contemplating a permanent ban on Chinese-made DTN replacement air bag inflators after they caused 10 fatal crashes since May 2023. The inflators malfunctioned in GM and Hyundai vehicles, posing severe safety risks. NHTSA is investigating their illegal U.S. importation.

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is considering implementing a permanent ban on the substandard Chinese replacement automobile air bag inflators produced by DTN, following a alarming series of 10 fatal crashes since May 2023.

NHTSA has identified at least 12 incidents in the U.S. involving severe accidents or fatalities due to ruptured DTN replacement air bag inflators, installed in GM or Hyundai vehicles. The safety agency states these inflators malfunction in crashes that should be survivable, causing metal fragments to hit drivers, resulting in critical injuries or death.

In addition to issuing urgent warnings to vehicle owners and repair shops, NHTSA is also calling for public opinion and is giving DTN an opportunity to present their case. They are working with law enforcement to trace illegal imports of these inflators, impacting potentially 10,000 vehicles.

(With inputs from agencies.)