Mitsubishi Pajero recall sparks call for mandatory data sharing by AAAA

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) has issued a call for mandatory data sharing following the recall of the MY17 Mitsubishi Pajero this week, claiming vehicle-owner safety is being put at risk.

The AAAA is using the recent recall of the MY17 NX Pajero to further its call for mandatory data sharing between car manufacturers and independent workshops. More than 6000 Mitsubishi Pajero vehicles built between 2017 and 2018 have been recalled because of “inadequate welding strength” which could cause the right-hand side suspension and steering arm to fail.

In a statement to the media, CEO at AAAA, Stuart Charity, said: “It’s interesting to note how Mitsubishi, which is one of the least cooperative manufacturers in sharing important vehicle servicing data to independent workshops, is handling this significant and potentially dangerous vehicle manufacturing fault. We have a situation where an ACCC notice and a letter in the mailbox are the only methods undertaken by the manufacturer to ensure affected vehicles are brought in for repair quickly.

“With a mandatory data sharing scheme in place, the Mitsubishi Pajero recall would allow independent workshops servicing these vehicles to have immediate access to the VIN numbers of Pajero’s affected so owners can be informed to take their vehicle back to Mitsubishi.”

Another example of how a mandatory data scheme would increase road user safety, and benefit manufacturers is the ongoing TAKATA airbag recall situation, the AAAA said.

“A mandatory data sharing scheme would enable all safety and recall campaigns to quickly reach a much higher percentage of affected vehicles, models that are being serviced by independent workshops across the county, which would enable potentially dangerous faults to be fixed sooner.”

“We are working closely with Assistant Treasurer Michael Sukkar on a mandatory data sharing scheme and we are confident a positive outcome can be achieved,” said Mr Charity.