Released 14/12/2018
Canberrans are being strongly encouraged to take the two minutes to check if their car is affected by the Takata faulty air bag recall before they travel this festive season.
Alarmingly 20,721 vehicles in the ACT are yet to have their Takata airbags replaced, following a compulsory recall which commenced in early 2018.
More troubling is that 174 of these vehicles have the more dangerous ‘Alpha’ subset of the Takata airbags, which pose the greatest risk to drivers and passengers.
ACT Commissioner for Fair Trading David Snowden said the Alpha airbags needed to be replaced as an absolute priority and Access Canberra had telephoned and written to car owners in relation to a particular type of airbag installed.
“The fact there are still potentially 174 of these cars on our roads is concerning and I strongly urge those who own affected vehicles to re-consider using this vehicle until the airbags are replaced,” he said.
“Takata airbags were recalled due to the risk of their metal case rupturing, which can cause metal fragments being propelled towards the vehicle’s occupants, causing serious injury or death,” he said.
“This can occur even in low impact collisions and the airbags have been associated with over 250 serious injuries and 24 deaths globally.”
Those with Takata airbags, but not ‘Alpha’, also need to get the airbags replaced, but the ‘Alpha’ bags are the priority due to the heightened risk.
Canberrans are urged to check if they have airbags impacted by the recall and if necessary contact the manufacturer who must organise a free replacement within three weeks of a request.
Mr Snowden urged the community to check if their vehicle is affected and encourage their friends, family and colleagues to check if their vehicle was impacted. It was quick and easy to do so.
“All the community need to do is go to the website: www.ismyairbagsafe.com.au and enter their numberplate and state/territory and you will be advised if your vehicle is impacted,” he said.
“Under the compulsory recall requirements, there is no cost to vehicle owners for the airbag replacement.”
Canberrans can also find out more information by visiting www.act.gov.au/airbag.
While vehicle manufacturers should be contacted in the first instance Access Canberra can also help answer any questions on 13 22 81.
- Statement ends -
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