Volkswagen recalls 42,000 Beetles in N. America for airbag replacements

Volkswagen is recalling nearly 42,000 Beetles from the 2015 and 2016 model years in the US and Canada to replace their potentially dangerous Takata airbag inflators.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the inflators can explode forcefully and hurl shrapnel.

To create a small explosion and inflate airbags, Takata used ammonium nitrate, which can deteriorate over time when exposed to high temperatures and humidity.

At least 33 individuals have died as a result of airbag explosions since 2009, including 24 Americans.

Dealers will swap out the Beetle's driver airbag.

The ammonium nitrate decay can be slowed down by a moisture-absorbing substance found in Beetle airbags. VW and the American government did, however, agree to recall them in 2020.