ACCC lists 'future' Takata recalls

The Australian Consumer and Competition Commission (ACCC) has published a list of vehicle model lines that are projected to need Takata airbag replacement at some point in the future.

Brands not previously associated with the faulty airbags – but now appearing on this list – include Citroen and McLaren.

According to the ACCC, the vehicles on the future recall list are not subject to an active recall, but will be in due course. Most vehicles on the list are newer models, with older cars (mainly pre-2007) needing 'like for like' replacement airbags making up the balance.

Just three months ago, the ACCC announced a compulsory recall for all vehicles fitted with the dodgy Takata airbags, which can shower a passenger or driver with life-threatening shards of metal during deployment. To date, the airbags have been directly responsible for one death in Australia: a Honda CR-V driver in Sydney.

With age, the airbag's propellant gradually degrades, due to temperature and humidity. The degraded propellant can fracture the inflator housing, which breaks up and erupts from the airbag as shrapnel – discharging at high velocity in the face and upper thoracic region of the seat occupant.

Mercedes-Benz is the latest brand to issue a recall notice for Takata airbags fitted to its (204 series) C-Class and R-Class models. Over 3500 vehicles are affected, according to the importer, and owners are asked to arrange for an inspection and replacement of the airbags at the nearest servicing dealer. The R-Class built between 2009 and 2013 only needs a replacement of the driver-side airbag, whereas the 204 Series C-Class from 2008 and 2009 will require replacement airbags for driver and front passenger.