Danger from Takata airbags: These cars need to go to the workshop
Airbag recall: millions of vehicles are affected
The recalls due to faulty Takata airbags continue. Technically savvy vehicle owners should take the risk seriously. The following article provides a compact overview of how to identify a potential hazard and what measures you need to take immediately in the event of a recall.
Millions of vehicles affected
Takata airbags have been causing recalls worldwide for two decades.
Manufacturers affected, including:
- Audi
- Citroën
- VW
- Mercedes
Faulty airbags pose a considerable safety risk. The cause: the Japanese supplier Takata installed an inexpensive but unstable propellant.
Technical problem: propellant failure with risk of explosion
The blowing agent used reacts sensitively to warm and humid climates.
Two scenarios are critical:
- Spontaneous explosion without cause
- Excessive explosion when triggered, with metal parts being thrown into the vehicle interior
The result: serious or fatal injuries.
Current case: Mercedes recall
Mercedes is currently recalling around 200,000 vans (model years 2002-2006) worldwide, 60,000 of them in Germany. The reason: there is a possibility that Takata airbags have been retrofitted – e.g. after repairs.
Important:
- No faulty airbags were fitted ex works.
- The check is carried out preventively to rule out risks from third-party components.
- Manufacturers cannot guarantee what workshops will retrofit.
How to check whether your vehicle is affected
- Online query
- Visit the manufacturer’s website
- Category “Airbag recall”
- Enter chassis number (VIN)
- Specialist dealer
- Use service system with manufacturer interface
- Immediate feedback on recall relevance
- Written request
- Contact manufacturer by registered mail with return receipt
- Obtain binding information on the chassis number
The instructions in the event of a recall
If the vehicle is affected:
- Make an appointment at an authorized workshop immediately
- Have airbags replaced – free of charge
- Inform possible buyer if vehicle has already been sold
Why self-testing is not possible
Only the manufacturer knows the exact equipment of each vehicle.
Problematic :
- The same model can contain airbags from different suppliers
- Visual inspection by laypersons is not possible
Outlook: Further recalls possible
It is unclear whether all endangered vehicles have already been recorded. The reasons:
- Subsequent installation of defective airbags during repairs
- Some manufacturers do not have an overview of third-party spare parts
The ADAC and the FIA are calling for comprehensive safety tests. Manufacturers must act proactively.
Conclusion: Safety first! Faulty Takata airbags represent a real risk to life.
The most important steps at a glance:
- Check chassis number
- Take recalls seriously
- Visit the workshop
Only the manufacturers have the necessary data for risk assessment. Do not rely on visual inspections – act on the basis of data and be absolutely systematic.
