26 September 2023

ACCC labels defective airbags ‘critical’

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The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has joined with the motor industry to declare the replacement of defective Takata airbags that have not been replaced yet as now ‘critical’.

The ACCC has warned drivers of affected BMW, GM Holden, Honda, Mitsubishi and Toyota vehicles not to drive their cars at all until the airbag has been replaced.

Deputy Chair of ACCC, Delia Rickard said classification as ‘critical’ meant manufacturers had assessed these airbags as being particularly unsafe and even a minor collision could result in death or serious injury.

“Under this urgent recall, drivers are entitled to have their vehicles towed to the dealership by the manufacturer and have the airbag replaced for free,” Ms Rickard said.

“Drivers may be entitled to a loan vehicle while the airbag is replaced,” she said.

“We encourage all drivers to check if their vehicles are affected, even if they have checked before, and to act immediately to have their airbag replaced.”

Ms Rickard said that under the compulsory recall 425,971 vehicles were still to be rectified.

“Critical airbags are a sub-category of faulty Takata airbags that require immediate replacement because of their increased safety risk for drivers and passengers,” Ms Rickard said.

“This number may increase as manufacturers continue to review the safety risks, so drivers should re-check to ensure their airbag is in need of critical replacement.”

Car owners can check if their car is affected by visiting IsMyAirbagSafe.com.au or by texting 0487 AIRBAG and following the prompts.

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