Takata recalled millions of airbag inflators after ruptures could spray metal fragments into vehicle cabins.
The inflators used ammonium nitrate propellant. In some circumstances, especially after long-term exposure to heat and humidity, the propellant could burn too quickly and create excessive pressure. The inflator housing could then rupture, turning metal components into dangerous projectiles.
The recalls affected vehicles made by many manufacturers and became one of the largest and most complex automotive safety campaigns ever conducted. Automakers replaced inflators in vehicles from numerous model years, with especially large populations in humid regions.
Takata filed for bankruptcy in 2017. A frequent misunderstanding is that Takata made the affected cars; it made the airbag components. The vehicle brands varied, but the defective inflators came from Takata. Replacement campaigns continued for years because millions of vehicles required parts and owners were difficult to reach.