The Australian Automotive Dealers Association (AADA) has warned that manufacturers will struggle to replace all dangerous takata airbags by the end of this year as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact business in the automotive industry.

According to the latest statistics, 300,000 vehicles remain equipped with the potentially deadly takata airbags in Australia, with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) implementing a deadline of the end of December 2020 to have all airbags replaced or accounted for or risk heavy fines.

However, manufacturers are having a hard time tracking down and replacing the remaining vehicles equipped with the airbags, with many automotive businesses experiencing a downturn in business that has resulted in many workers being forced to take leave.

With it becoming increasingly more difficult for manufacturers to connect with vehicle owners and perform repairs, AADA chief executive James Voortman has urged the ACCC to consider the unique climate currently being experienced when determining whether the current deadline should be kept in place for airbag replacements.

“There is no doubt that the Takata airbag recall will be affected by the delays caused by the coronavirus,” said Voortman. “We would expect the ACCC would take that into account when considering whether an extension to the current Takata airbag replacement deadline is appropriate.”

AADA has been working with their 3,500 member dealerships on how to best navigate the current climate, with many dealers experiencing a significant drop in sales.

According to AADA, dealers may remain open at this stage as they are considered an essential service, with Voortman saying any dealer with the capacity to continue performing essential repairs should do so where possible.

“If dealers have the replacement airbag parts in stock, they can still do this work. For many dealerships it is business as usual, anyone who needs to bring in a vehicle requiring an airbag replacement should do so,” said Voortman.

The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) chief executive Tony Weber has urged drivers to stay aware of any active recalls relating to the takata airbag crisis and book their vehicles in for urgent repairs as soon as possible, saying the current COVID-19 is no excuse for turning a blind eye to vehicle safety.

“We understand this is avery 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,” said Weber.

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

Source: Drive.com.au | Takata airbag crisis: coronavirus could put brakes on life-saving replacement parts

31 March 2020