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RIRecallIndex
Safety Systems

Airbag System

A vehicle safety system that deploys inflatable cushions during a crash to protect occupants from impact.

What It Means

Modern vehicles contain multiple airbags: front (driver and passenger), side curtain, side torso, knee, and sometimes rear. Airbag-related recalls are among the most common and serious — the Takata airbag recall affected over 67 million vehicles in the U.S. alone. Defective airbags can fail to deploy, deploy unexpectedly, or deploy with excessive force.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "Airbag System" mean?

A vehicle safety system that deploys inflatable cushions during a crash to protect occupants from impact.

Why does Airbag System matter for vehicle safety?

Modern vehicles contain multiple airbags: front (driver and passenger), side curtain, side torso, knee, and sometimes rear. Airbag-related recalls are among the most common and serious — the Takata airbag recall affected over 67 million vehicles in the U.S. alone. Defective airbags can fail to deplo...

Related Terms

TSB (Technical Service Bulletin)
A notice from a manufacturer to dealerships describing a known issue and its fix, not classified as a safety recall.
ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System)
A safety system that prevents wheels from locking up during hard braking, maintaining steering control.
ESC (Electronic Stability Control)
A safety system that detects and reduces loss of traction, helping prevent skids and rollovers.
VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
A unique 17-character code assigned to every motor vehicle for identification and tracking purposes.

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About This Data

Definitions based on NHTSA standards, the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act, and federal enforcement guidance. See our privacy policy.