Regulators in the U.S. are warning motorists against adding decorative badges and jewelry pieces of trim to their steering wheels due to the risk they pose in a crash.
The badges have gained popularity on social media and are usually stuck on or around the original steering wheel emblem. Many of these aftermarket badges feature rhinestones and while some may think they look cool, they can quickly turn into an uncontrollable projectile in a crash that triggers the airbag.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued the warning on its website and says it is aware of one driver suffering a serious eye injury after an emblem with rhinestones hit the driver in the face during a crash. The driver lost their sight in one eye and regulators don’t want this to happen again.
Read: BMW Issues Do Not Drive Order On 90,000 Older Models Still Fitted With Takata Airbags
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“Unlike the permanently affixed logo on your vehicle’s steering wheel, these aftermarket decals can easily become dislodged when the airbag is deployed,” the NHTSA wrote. “Any alterations or changes to your airbag or its cover can also cause it to not function correctly. NHTSA is asking consumers to avoid purchasing these steering wheel decals for all vehicle makes and models. Consumers should also remove any such decals that they have already applied to their steering wheels.”
These steering wheel accessories can be found through a variety of different websites including Amazon and Etsy. No doubt adding to their popularity is the fact that they can be easily purchased for less than $10, making them an appealing option for those wanting to spruce up their cars on a budget and with little effort.
We all know how important airbags are in reducing the severity of crash injuries and the disastrous Takata recalls perfectly highlight the danger of projectiles flying through the cabin in a crash. If you know someone with one of these badges or emblems, kindly suggest that they remove it.
