Car owners urged to protect rego by checking for faulty airbags
Vehicle owners are urged to check their cars Takata recall status, as state and territory governments are now implementing registration sanctions in cases where vehicle owners have ignored manufacturer recall communications.
This means that owners will not legally be able to use their vehicles on public roads, with potential insurance-related consequences if they do.
“Our industry has completed more than 99.9 per cent of the 3.06 million vehicle recall. This is an outstanding result and reflects a determined and cooperative effort by manufacturers, dealers and vehicle owners,” said Tony Weber, Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) Cheif Executive.
“There are some vehicles that are still equipped with faulty airbags. We want to ensure those vehicles are rectified before state and territory governments cancel or refuse to renew the registration of the vehicles involved.”
If the defective airbag deploys, it can spray shrapnel throughout the vehicle’s cabin, causing injury or death to vehicle occupants.
There have been 32 deaths and over 350 injuries worldwide.
Despite the formal recall concluding on 31 December 2020, the FCAI has advised that a small number of vehicles remain outstanding.
“Owners of vehicles with faulty airbags should reach out to their local dealer to arrange for immediate repair,” Mr Weber stated.
“It is critical these vehicle owners do not ignore any manufacturer or government agency communication. The industry is committed to promptly assisting them to ensure their vehicles can safely stay on our roads.”
Private buyers are also encouraged to check the vehicle’s airbag status before finalizing a sale. Unless these faulty airbags have been replaced, the government registration authorities may also deny ownership transfers.
Owners can easily check the recall status of their vehicles via www.ismyairbagsafe.com.au or texting TAKATA to 0487 AIRBAG (247 224).
Unregistered vehicles can also be checked via direct contact with the relevant brand.
Source: Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries
24 February 2021
