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WATCH | Airbags, seat belts and carpets - 10 car scandals that'll have you scratching your head

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<I>Image: iStock</I>
<I>Image: iStock</I>

From deadly airbags killing passengers to cars accelerating by themselves due to the carpet becoming stuck, the automotive world has seen its fair share of failures and embarrassments.

The global credibility of automakers like Volkswagen, Nissan and Ford has come under scrutiny in recent years due to crippling scandals emerging from boardroom to factory levels.

Keeping it under wraps

Just about every large manufacturer has a blemish on their name. Volkswagen with the Dieselgate emissions and Nissan with Carlos Ghosn using company funds for personal use - to name a few.

Moving a notch lower in the pecking order and more to the mechanical side of things, there are numerous examples to be had as well.

READ | Volkswagen in talks to settle German 'dieselgate' mass lawsuit


Do you know of any other scandals that happened that we might have missed? Email us.

Back in the 60's, the Ford Pinto hatchback came under scrutiny due to its fuel tank design that was situated behind the rear axle and in front of the rear bumper, which caused a fuel leak and explosions when involved in a rear-end collision.

Whether it is safety protocols or design improvements, automakers have learnt from their mistakes because they potentially run the risk of people walking away from the brand. You should feel safe and protected in a car not worried about if a seatbelt, airbag or unexplained fire will kill you.

Compiled by: Robin Classen

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