WASHINGTON — There were apologies and long-winded explanations, but after four hours of testimony about exploding Takata air bags, senators never got a clear answer to the question most people have about whether their cars are safe.

During a Thursday hearing before the Senate Commerce Committee, Takata’s quality chief apologized for the air bag malfunctions, and a senior Honda executive acknowledged his company didn’t comply with disclosure laws.

But an exchange between Sen. Dean Heller, R-Nev., and Honda Executive Vice President Rick Schostek pretty much summed up the day.

Heller, who has an 18-year-old daughter, pointedly asked if it was safe for her to drive their 2007 Honda Civic.

After a nine-second pause, Schostek gave an answer that wasn’t reassuring. He explained that some models had been recalled nationally due to a Takata manufacturing problem. Others had been recalled in an area of mainly Southern states with high humidity.

“We are trying to understand if there is any additional risk out there,” he said.

Prolonged exposure to airborne moisture can cause Takata’s air bag inflator propellant to burn quickly, blowing apart a metal canister and sending shrapnel into passengers. At least five people have died worldwide. Lawmakers have called for a national recall to end confusion, but most automakers have balked.

Heller pressed on. “How can you assure me that a 2007 vehicle is safe for any young adult on the road to drive today?” he asked.

Schostek wasn’t sure of exact models under recall, and said Honda wants recalled vehicles to be repaired.

“If that vehicle was not subject to a recall, we have not determined risk, so we would deem it safe for the driver,” he said.

That wasn’t very reassuring to Sen. Bill Nelson, D-Fla., who presided over the hearing. “Perhaps on the basis of Mr. Schostek’s response, you’d better tell your daughter not to drive south in her Honda,” he said.

Eight million cars with Takata air bag inflators have been recalled in the U.S., and more than 12 million worldwide. Nelson said there could be as many as 100 million Takata-equipped cars globally and 30 million in the U.S. “This could be a problem of gargantuan proportions,” he said.

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