Urgent Safety Alert: Defective Jilin DTN Airbag Inflators Pose Deadly Risk
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued an urgent warning and initial determination that certain, likely illegally imported, frontal driver air bag inflators manufactured by Jilin Province Detiannuo Safety Technology Co. Ltd. (DTN) have a potentially deadly defect. In 12 crashes, the DTN air bag inflators malfunctioned and ruptured, sending large metal fragments into drivers’ chests, necks, eyes and faces, killing 10 and severely injuring 2 others. The fatalities occurred in crashes that should have been survivable. If your vehicle has been in a prior crash and had its driver’s airbag replaced — regardless of make or model — ASE strongly urges you to have your airbag system inspected by a certified professional, immediately.
Not all technicians have credentials. ASE Certified professionals have passed stringent certification tests that verifies their technical knowledge is consistent with the highest professional standards in the transportation industry. When it comes to safety-critical systems like airbags, experience and expertise matter.
An ASE Certified professional has the verified technical knowledge to:
- Inspect your airbag module and inflator for proper identification markings
- Identify whether your system contains original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts or potentially defective replacements
- Advise you on next steps if a suspicious inflator is found
- Help you document the condition of your airbag system for insurance or legal purposes
Looking for a shop that employs ASE Certified professional near you? Visit https://www.ase.com/repair-centers and ask for an ASE Certified technician. You’ll be glad you did!
About the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)
Established by the automotive industry in 1972 as a non-profit organization, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is a driving force in the transportation industry. As an independent third party, ASE upholds and promotes high standards of service and repair through the assessment, certification and credentialing of current and future industry professionals, and the prestigious ASE Blue Seal logo identifies professionals who possess the essential knowledge and skills to perform with excellence. Today, there are ASE Certified professionals at work in dealerships, independent shops, collision repair shops, auto parts stores, fleets, schools and colleges throughout the country. For more information about ASE, visit www.ase.com.