— Infiniti is recalling more than 800 model year 2017 Infiniti Q50 and Q50 Hybrid cars that have problems with their front airbag inflators.
The inflators, manufactured by Daicel, may not have been welded properly and could crack when the airbags deploy in a crash.
Specifically, the airbag inflator may have bad welds between the second-stage initiator collar and the closure plate which could cause a crack to form along the welds when the airbag deploys. This will cause gas to escape from the airbag initiator housing, leaving the airbag unable to protect an occupant.
Infiniti learned of possible problems during an airbag test to verify how the airbags functioned during low temperatures. The April 2017 test was conducted by supplier Nihon Plast and revealed a crack in the welds of the subject inflator, something that caused another investigation.
Infiniti reps met with both suppliers, Nihon Plast and Daicel, to track down the root cause of the problem and by the end it was determined the laser welding machine caused parts to be misaligned.
Although no incidents were discovered that could be traced to the faulty welds, Nissan and Daicel were concerned enough about the inflator's welding strength that a recall was the best option to make sure the vehicles are safe to drive.
Infiniti dealers will replace the driver's side airbag inflators once the Infiniti Q50 and Q50 Hybrid recall begins October 30, 2017.
Owners with questions should call Infiniti at 800-662-6200 and choose option 7.
CarComplaints.com has owner-reported complaints about the Infiniti Q50, Infiniti Q50 Hybrid and many other Infiniti models.