According to the federal government, here are the people who should have their airbags checked as soon as possible:
Anyone who has had their airbag replaced, especially if it was not replaced at a new car dealership;
Anyone who has purchased a used car, but does not know whether or not the airbag was ever replaced by the previous owner;
Anyone who has purchased a car that was listed as salvage, rebuilt or reconstructed;
Anyone who has purchased an airbag over the internet, especially if they paid less than $400 for it.
If you are concerned, you can take your car to a dealership and have them check your airbag. You can locate a dealership that will perform this inspection on the website: www.SaferCar.gov
Unfortunately, consumers will have to pay to have their cars inspected, as well as for the cost of replacing the airbag if it turns out to be counterfeit. The National Automobile Dealers Association estimates than an inspection will cost about $100 to $200 and the replacement cost for a steering wheel airbag is approximately $750 to $1,000. For you own protection, confirm the price before you take your car to an inspection site. As always, this blogger does not recommend that you get any work done on your car (or other property) until you have a written estimate. This is especially important for consumers because some cars may have as many as eight airbags.
Sadly, it is absolutely shocking and tragic that there are people who would knowingly put the lives of other human beings in danger by selling counterfeit safety equipment that does not work. Many people who are struggling to get by financially will be especially hard hit by this crime.
You may also be interested in reading:
Post-Disaster Contractor Fraud
You Can Avoid Online Used Car Scams
Credit Fraud and Identity Theft During Your Vacation
You are reading from the blog: http://lies-and-liars.blogspot.com
Photo of wrecked car courtesy of www.morguefile.com
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