The Takata airbag recall has been expanded after it was announced that 82,756 Toyota vehicles have been added to the expanded recall notice.

The recall affects the 2001-03 Toyota Avensis, 2001-07 Corolla and 2006-11 Yaris Sedan models.

As has been the case with all Takata-related recalls, the issue at hand comes from the airbags in affected vehicles being fitted with a propellant that may degrade over time when exposed to heat and humidity. This may result in the inflator housing exploding on impact when the airbags are deployed, producing shrapnel. Vehicles in hotter climates are at greater risk of malfunction.

Toyota will contact all affected owners individually and organise a free replacement at their local dealer.

The Takata recall has now affected over 3.8 million airbags according to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, with 600,000 affected vehicles still on the roads.

There have been 24 reported deaths from faulty airbags worldwide since the Takata recall was announced, while 260 injuries have been reported.

Concerned owners can check if their vehicles are part of the recall at https://www.ismyairbagsafe.com.au/

Original source: Car Advice | Toyota Avensis, Corolla and Yaris: Takata recall expanded

17 Sep 2019