RACQ warns owners to replace Takata airbags immediately

DRIVERS are being urged to replace their Takata airbags immediately.

Last week, RACQ revealed more than 155,000 cars still contained the potentially deadly airbags and there was just six months left for manufacturers to fix them.

A report from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission reported more than 6000 of those vehicles were so dangerous they should not be driven at all.

“These airbags are extremely dangerous and could go off, sending sharp metal fragments through the air at high speed, potentially killing or injuring anyone inside the vehicle,” RACQ spokeswoman Lauren Ritchie said.

“There’s only six months left before manufacturers are expected to complete this recall and it’s crucial we get these dangerous airbags off the road.

“If you’re unsure whether your vehicle is affected, a simple check could save a life. All you need to do is visit ismyairbagsafe.com.au.”

Ms Ritchie urged owners not to ignore the recall, as the outcomes could be fatal.

“Don’t ignore or delay fixing your airbags any longer, if your car is affected, please stop driving and call your manufacturer now to arrange a free replacement.”

The State Government had already sent letters out to some vehicle owners threatening to cancel registration unless the issue was rectified.

The Takata airbag recall was the world’s largest automotive recall, affecting an estimated 100 million vehicles globally.