Archive · 22 Sep 2025
US Warns of Deadly Counterfeit Airbags from China
Imagine your car's airbag is supposed to save you in a crash.
Some companies in China are making fake versions of these airbags.
These fakes can explode and hurt people instead of protecting them.
US regulators are warning people about these dangerous parts, which have already caused several deaths.
They are urging mechanics to be careful and only use real, certified parts.
The fake airbags are often sold cheaply online, but they can be deadly.
It's like buying a toy that looks real but could break and cause harm.
US regulators are investigating accidents involving counterfeit airbag inflators allegedly made in China.
The NHTSA reports seven incidents, including five fatalities, tied to these faulty airbag components.
The inflators are allegedly manufactured by DTN Airbag and are prone to catastrophic failure.
Counterfeit airbags are entering the US through online sales, offering cheaper, dangerous alternatives.
The NHTSA urges drivers and repair shops to use only manufacturer-certified parts to ensure safety.
- Who
- US regulators, NHTSA, DTN, and auto repair shops.
- What
- Investigation into counterfeit airbag inflators from China.
- When
- Recent accidents, with the most recent in July 2024, ongoing investigation.
- Where
- United States.
- Why
- Because counterfeit airbag inflators are linked to fatal crashes.
- Accidents Investigated
- 7 incidents
- Fatalities
- 5 confirmed
- Alleged Manufacturer
- Jilin Province Detiannuo Safety Technology (DTN)
- Airbag Failure Cause
- Rupturing/Exploding on impact
- Airbag Cost
- Counterfeit: ~$100; Authentic: >$1,000
- NHTSA Warning
- Avoid uncertified parts