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Deadly Defect Leads To Largest Airbag Recall In History

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- It is the largest consumer product recall in U.S. history. Nearly 34 million cars in the U.S. are now included in the expanded recall for airbags that could potentially explode.

Meghan McCorkell with more on the fix that may take a long time.

The recall affects 1 in 4 cars on U.S. roads right now from 11 different auto manufacturers.

Angelina Sujata was in a low speed crash when shrapnel exploded from her deployed airbag, slicing a hole in her chest.

"Everybody kept telling me airbags don't do that. That's the problem is these ones are, and that's not right," she said.

Her car--one of nearly 34 million in the U.S. now recalled for defective airbags.

"Lives are at stake. It's our job to protect them," said Anthony Foxx, U.S. Transportation Secretary.

Manufacturer Takata now admits faulty inflators can cause airbags to explode, though the company hasn't identified the cause.

The recall has now been expanded to include both passenger and driver side airbags.

The recall--especially concerning for Maryland mom Laura Christian. Her daughter died in a crash involving a faulty GM ignition switch.

Now her husband is driving a car with defective airbags--and the parts aren't yet available to fix it.

"He's been forced to drive the vehicle, and we're just hoping and praying that nothing happens in the meantime," said Christian. "I can't bear losing a daughter as well as my husband."

So, when will dealers be able to fix all the airbags?

"I think the big question is how long is this going to take? Nobody knows that yet. There is no question--it could be some years," said Mark Roseking, NHTSA administrator.

Auto industry expert Jason Vines says drivers must be diligent.

"Continue to call your dealership--if not every day, every two days--to say, 'Do you have the part yet? Do you have the part yet?'" said Vines.

Meantime, federal officials will conduct their own airbag safety testing.

Complaints of exploding airbags have been reported in multiple states, including Maryland.

The National Highway Transportation Safety Board has set up a website with information on the recall.

CLICK HERE.

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