Defective airbags controversy: multiple garage chains reject replacing cars equipped with faulty Takata airbags
In a move aimed at ensuring safety and minimising liability, several garages across the UK have decided to refuse performing any repairs on vehicles with Takata airbags, even for non-airbag related services. The decision stems from the serious safety risks linked to the defective Takata airbag inflators, which can deteriorate over time, especially under conditions of heat and humidity, becoming unstable and prone to exploding with excessive force. This can result in metal fragments being sent into the cabin, potentially causing fatal injuries [1][4].
As a result, certain vehicles with Takata airbags have been issued mandatory 'stop drive' or 'do not drive' orders by automakers such as Stellantis (Citroen and DS brands), until the airbags are safely replaced or repaired [2][3]. This has led garages to opt not to work on these cars at all to avoid exposing personnel to the risk of accidental airbag deployment and potential injury during any repair operation—even if the requested repair is unrelated to the airbags.
The complexity and liability concerns surrounding the defective airbag recall campaign, which prioritises airbag replacement safety over other vehicle servicing, further contribute to the refusal [1][2].
Drivers of vehicles subject to the Takata airbag recall are advised to turn to the manufacturer for any necessary repairs. Once the airbags have been safely replaced and a certificate of the intervention is presented, garages such as Speedy will maintain vehicles in the best condition for continued mobility. Speedy centres, along with many others, have refused any intervention on vehicles subject to a recall since August 1 [5].
Similarly, Point S brand stores have joined the refusal movement, although no official communication has been published as of yet. Norauto, another popular garage chain, has promised to communicate on its social networks in the coming days to help drivers [6].
The Takata airbag recall is due to a gas that ages poorly, posing a risk of explosion, especially in hot and humid climates. In the event of a crash, the defective airbag can cause parts to be projected onto the driver's face [7]. It is important to note that the control for the recall is personal and cannot be carried out by garage teams.
Therefore, drivers are urged to check if their vehicle is subject to a recall before bringing it to any garage. This step is crucial to ensure the safety of both the vehicle's occupants and the garage staff.
- The complexity and liability concerns of the Takata airbag recall have led some garages, like Speedy, to refuse any intervention on vehicles subject to the recall since August 1.
- Due to the serious safety risks linked to defective Takata airbag inflators, certain garages, such as Point S brand stores, have decided to refrain from working on vehicles with Takata airbags, even for non-airbag related services.
- The defective Takata airbag inflators, which can deteriorate over time and become unstable, posing a risk of explosion, especially in hot and humid climates, have resulted in automakers like Stellantis (Citroen and DS brands) issuing mandatory 'stop drive' or 'do not drive' orders for affected vehicles until the airbags are safely replaced or repaired.
- It is essential for drivers to check if their vehicle is subject to a Takata airbag recall before bringing it to any garage, as the control for the recall is personal and cannot be carried out by garage teams, to ensure the safety of both the vehicle's occupants and the garage staff.
