As part of a national compliance operation for the Compulsory Takata Recall Notice, the Office of Fair Trading has conducted inspections at 679 second-hand motor dealers, auction houses and wreckers across Australia.

Acting Attorney-General Mick de Brenni reported over 20,000 vehicles were checked, in which 105 vehicles were found to be fitted with Faulty Takata airbags.

“Despite manufacturers and suppliers recalling these vehicles under the compulsory recall since July 2018, more than 2,265 dangerous vehicles are still on our roads in Queensland, potentially putting people’s lives in danger,” de Brenni stated.

Takata airbags are being recalled due to their potential to explode in an accident, even a minor one, and send shrapnel through the vehicle at high speed, potentially causing serious injury or fatality.

There have been over 350 injuries and 32 deaths reported worldwide, with one death and three injuries in Australia.

Car dealers, auction houses and wreckers must remain vigilant and act where needed, as community safety is paramount.

Aside from the clear dangers associated with faulty airbags, Mr de Brenni advises that failure to comply with the enforceable undertaking could also result in prosecution for the original breaches of the law and non-compliance with the undertaking.

Consumers are urged to check the VIN number on their vehicles to see if they fall under the recall.

Consumers can visit ismyairbagsafe.com.au, the Product Safety Australia page, or contact their manufacturer to check if their vehicle is affected. A list of vehicle manufacturer helplines and contact details is available online.

Source: Queensland Government | Queenslanders reminded to check for faulty airbags

11 January 2021