The Takata Airbag recall saga is a story that’s refusing to go away. Courtesy of Australian consumer group Choice, more problems have been sprouting up with the replacement airbags on affected vehicles.
It’s the biggest recall in automotive history, with up to 2.1 million vehicles affected in Australia alone. The problem with the affected airbags is that when they inflate, they can mimic a grenade by sending dangerous shards of metal flying out. Here’s what an inflator looks like, going off in lab conditions.
So, yes. It’s serious. Some deaths and injuries have been directly linked to these Takata airbags, which have been described aptly as a ‘ticking time bomb’.
The problem isn’t going away, either. Vehicles that have been in for ‘fixed’ may have faulty units fitted as a replacement, meaning they still might be very dangerous.
The complete lists of 4X4s affected by the Takata airball debacle.
- Dodge Ram (2004 – 2010)
- Jeep JK Wrangler (2007-2012)
- Mazda BT-50/B Series (2002 – 2011)
- Mitsubishi Pajero (2006 – 2016)
- Mitsubishi Triton (2007 – 2014)
- Nissan Patrol (2000 – 2007, 2009 – 2012)
- Nissan Navara D22 (2001 – 2012)
- Nissan Navara D40 (2008-2014)
- Performax International GMC Sierra (2007 – 2008)
- Performax International Chevrolet Silverado (2007 – 2008)
For the full list of vehicles, check out this story by the ABC.
Worried your vehicle is affected? It’s up to the owners to take action. Head over to the Product Safety website, and search your make and model to see if there is an outstanding recall for your vehicle. If there is, get in touch with a dealer to get the work done.
If your vehicle is on a list, get on the phone to your manufacturer a call as ask them directly.
Have you had experience with Takata airbags being fitted to your vehicle? Let us know in the comments below.
