Takata recall still in place despite COVID-19

CAR manufacturers along with the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) has reminded vehicle owners that dealerships are still open and ready to rectify the fitting of potentially deadly Takata airbags despite the ongoing COVID-19 crisis.

While more than 10.1 million vehicle checks have been made via the Is My Airbag Safe webpage – resulting in 1.6 million vehicles being found to have faulty airbag inflators – Product Safety Australia figures suggest there are still around 300,000 faulty or dangerous airbags still in circulation.

FCAI chief executive Tony Weber today implored motorists to double check their vehicle is not included as part of the nation-wide recall effort.

“We understand this is a very stressful time in our community, but we can’t afford to lose sight of the safety of our cars, especially when private transport has now become so important,” he said.

“Vehicle owners should not delay or they will risk the safety of themselves and their passengers.”

More than 2.59 million vehicles affected by the ongoing recall have been rectified/repaired to date, while 206,840 vehicles had been identified as unreplaceable, equating to 91 per cent of the total affected number having been rectified.

Mr Weber reminded motorists that dealerships were still open and ready to replace any remaining faulty airbags free of charge.

Anyone still unsure as to it their vehicle is affected or not is urged to either visit www.ismyairbagsafe.com.au and follow the prompts or text the word TAKATA to 0487 247 224.

Brands with models affected by the recall include Audi, BMW, Cadillac, Chrysler, Citroen, Dodge, Ferrari, Ford, GMC, Holden, Honda, Jaguar Land Rover, Jeep, Lexus, Mazda, McLaren, Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes-Benz Vans, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Opel, Saab, Skoda, Subaru, Tesla, Toyota and Volkswagen.