Airbags in vehicles are one of the most vital safety systems compared to other passive systems that keep the driver and passenger from harm. The model affected with this recall is the Subaru Forester SUV from 2015 to 2018 specifically. The function of an airbag in a collision is to deploy the airbag to protect the occupants. Especially, in the front seat were the ones in front at most risk! Airbags at this position should deploy, but sometimes, they don't work.
Even with a three-point ELR seatbelt, there's no guarantee that anyone is safe. This is true in frontal collisions that need an airbag to keep the ones in front unscathed in an accident! A suspected cause is the electric connection of the electrical harness or cable harness located in the front seat cushions can't detect because it is not working properly. In particular, those most affected are those equipped with heated seats!
Findings that the occupant detection system (ODS) sensors mat becomes loose is something to avoid. It detects anyone sitting on the car seat, that indicates to the car sensors to keep airbags active, at all times. Otherwise, if the seat is empty that the airbag is commanded to be inactive by the system.
This raises the concern because once the car is sold, all the safety systems both active and passive of the Forester should be in working condition. If not, the car should be recalled for replacement and repair with no cost to the owner.
All owners of Subaru Forester made in the model year 2015 to 2018 will be sent notifications of the recall to inform them of the defect or problem. Starting on November 29, 2019, all affected vehicles need to be inspected and looked over by Subaru dealers to diagnose whether there's a problem or not! Prompt replacement of the ODS sensor and electrical harness is done free of charge too.
To check if the vehicle owned is subject to this recall and check with the manufacturer. Look for the Subaru number WUM-98 or try to reach the Subaru customer service number at 1-844-373-6614. To be really sure and find out if the Subaru Forester owned is on the recall list, do this. Go to the NHTSA's (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) site that will have any car with requests for recall and checking online. Get the vehicle's 17-digit VIN and check the NHTSA site if there is a recall for the model. Should it no be found, then it isn't part of the recall.
More than often these recalls especially for the Subaru Foresters occupant detection system (ODS) sensors and electrical harness should not be ignored! Going online and checking the NHTSA website should be done soon. Airbag deactivation is a serious problem that cannot be ignored! Especially when it concerns the drivers and front-seat passenger's overall safety while on the road. If anyone suspect something amiss then it should be checked. Immediate checking and replacement is important for overalls safety of the passengers in front!
See Now: OnePlus 6: How Different Will It Be From OnePlus 5?