The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) today confirmed Australian motorists have made more than 12 million vehicle checks on the its website for the Takata airbag compulsory recall.
According to the industry body, these online checks have identified over two million vehicles in Australia equipped with faulty and potentially deadly Takata airbag inflators, and the 12 million milestone represents more than 67 per cent of the country’s passenger cars and light commercial vehicles currently on the road (17.8 million).
“The heavy usage of the website clearly demonstrates that vehicle owners appreciate being able to readily access important safety information,” said Tony Weber, FCAI chief executive.
“The website has been an outstanding success in helping people identify whether their vehicles are affected by the national Takata recall.”
Nationally, vehicle manufacturers have replaced faulty airbags in over 2.72 million passenger cars and light commercial vehicles, according to the FCAI.
The deadline for the recall campaign has now passed, though Mr Weber says manufacturers are still committed to providing ongoing support for affected vehicle owners.
“We will continue hosting the website through early 2021 to ensure vehicle owners can readily check the recall status of their vehicles. If owners identify any outstanding faulty airbags, manufacturers and dealers will replace them free of charge,” Mr Weber added.
If you’re unsure about the recall status of your vehicle, or want to know if your car is affected by the Takata airbag recall, visit www.ismyairbagsafe.com.au, or text TAKATA to 0487 247 224.
State and territory governments have begun deregistering or refusing registration of vehicles with unrectified inflators, and Mr Weber is calling upon motorists to get the job done quickly.
“Vehicle owners can easily avoid the inconvenience and serious legal risks associated with deregistration by making prompt arrangements for free replacement,” he said, “Don’t let your vehicle be taken off the road by the authorities.
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