The federal government is warning Americans about counterfeit airbags that could be in thousands of vehicles nationwide.

Video from the Department of Transportation shows the counterfeit airbags propelling fiery shrapnel at passengers or not deploying at all.

Federal officials said the organized criminals are selling the counterfeit airbags as replacements after a crash. The counterfeit airbags are in 1 in 1,000 cars, officials said.

"If you're replacing an airbag in your car, deal with a reputable supplier and ask questions about where the replacement part came from," said John Morton of Immigrations and Customs Enforcement.

The bogus airbags were sold over the past three years online or at repair shops.

For more information from the government, visit safercar.gov.