More than 4% of passenger vehicles impacted statewide
Special to the
Opelika Observer
In response to a pressing safety issue impacting 6,000 vehicles in the Opelika metropolitan area, Mayor Gary Fuller has declared September as Airbag Recall Repair Month in Opelika. These vehicles are a portion of nearly 214,000 vehicles across Alabama that have dangerous, non-repaired, recalled airbags that are at increased risk of rupturing in hot, humid climates like Alabama. When exposed over time to heat and humidity, they can transform from life-saving devices into life-threatening ones. In a crash, they could rupture and cause death rather than prevent injury.
To help keep drivers safe and to echo the mayor’s proclamation, the National Safety Council, along with local Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram dealers, have launched an Airbag Recall Repair Month campaign in September. This safety recall impacts more than 4% of all passenger vehicles statewide.
It is critical that every driver in the Opelika area takes three easy steps now:
- locate your vehicle’s 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN). Check the driver’s side dashboard or registration and insurance documents.
- enter your VIN into CheckToProtect.org. Find out within seconds if you have an open safety recall.
- schedule a free repair appointment at a local dealership. Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram and Toyota dealers have parts in stock and technicians on hand all month.
As part of Airbag Recall Repair Month, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram dealers are reaching out to drivers across the state. Repairs take about an hour to complete, and many dealers have extended hours and can provide complimentary transportation while vehicles are being repaired. Alabama residents may see safety canvassers checking VINs, Check To Protect advertising and events in the area.
There are 40 local Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram dealers across Alabama – two in the greater Opelika area – that are participating in Airbag Recall Repair Month. Area Toyota and Ford dealers have also joined FCA’s efforts. Local dealers can be found by visiting www.bit.ly/CTPmap.