An investigation by the Turn to Tara team has revealed that hundreds of thousands of drivers in the tri-state area are at risk due to defective Takata airbags, despite a decade-old recall.

The probe found nearly 200,000 unfixed cars in New York, 113,000 in New Jersey, and 51,000 in Connecticut, according to Carfax data.

"These particular airbags are extremely dangerous," said Patrick Olsen, Carfax Editor-in-Chief. "They explode with excessive force, turning metal pieces into shrapnel."

The recall affects hundreds of car models made over a decade. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports 27 deaths and over 400 injuries nationwide.

Experts urge drivers to contact local dealers for free repairs.