Deadly Counterfeit Airbags: NHTSA Issues Urgent Warning to U.S. Drivers

U.S. safety regulators have identified a deadly threat linked to aftermarket airbags made in China—components that have already been tied to fatal incidents across the country.

According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), at least 10 drivers have died over the past three years due to defective airbags produced by Chinese manufacturer Jilin Province Detiannuo Safety Technology Co. These non-OEM parts are commonly used in vehicle repairs, particularly when rebuilding cars after serious crashes.

The issue isn’t the accidents themselves, but the design of the airbag inflator—the component responsible for rapidly filling the airbag during a collision. In the case of these units, the inflator can rupture instead of deploying properly, sending metal fragments into the cabin. Victims have suffered fatal injuries to the chest, neck, and face.

Investigation and Government Response

The NHTSA launched its investigation into these components in October 2025. Officials found that the faulty inflators were frequently installed by independent repair shops, especially in vehicles rebuilt after major accidents.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated that substandard imported parts have already led to tragic losses for American families. Federal authorities are now considering a nationwide ban on the sale of these airbags, with a decision potentially coming as early as April 2026.

All confirmed incidents so far have involved two popular models: the Chevrolet Malibu and the Hyundai Sonata. However, regulators stress that the risk is not limited to these vehicles. The airbags may have been installed in a wide range of models, and their origin is often difficult to trace.

Used Car Market Risks and Expert Advice

Fraudulent practices in the used car market make the situation even more dangerous. Sellers can install airbag emulators and replace steering wheel covers to make a repaired vehicle appear fully functional. In reality, the safety system may be compromised—or completely non-functional.

In the event of another crash, the consequences can be catastrophic, as recent cases in the U.S. have shown.

Experts strongly recommend a thorough inspection before buying a used vehicle, especially if it was involved in an accident after 2020 and repaired outside an authorized dealership. Dealer-level diagnostics can reveal whether airbags have previously deployed and whether critical components need replacement.

It’s also worth noting that airbag systems don’t last forever. Over time, inflators and related components can degrade, reducing their effectiveness.

What Drivers Should Do

The NHTSA advises drivers not to operate vehicles equipped with these DTN airbags until they are replaced with genuine OEM parts. Vehicle owners are also encouraged to report suspected cases to authorities or file complaints through official channels.

As counterfeit and substandard parts become more common, responsibility for safety doesn’t rest solely with manufacturers. Careful vehicle history checks, professional diagnostics, and attention to detail remain the best ways to protect yourself and your passengers.