Lexus cars recalled over Takata airbag-related issue

Lexus Australia has recalled approximately 7015 examples of the Lexus IS over concerns the front passenger Takata airbag inflator could degrade over time and potentially rupture during deployment, sending metal fragments into the cabin.

The latest recall covers certain Lexus IS250, IS250C, IS350 and IS F vehicles fitted with Takata front passenger airbag inflators, including inflators installed as replacement parts under an earlier recall.

The affected vehicles span production dates between August 31, 2005 and December 25, 2012, although the exact production range varies by model and not every vehicle built within the nominated VIN ranges was sold in Australia.

According to Lexus, the inflators contain desiccated phase-stabilised ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant.

A desiccant is designed to absorb and retain moisture, thereby limiting moisture absorption by the propellant and reducing the potential for degradation.

However, Lexus says subsequent investigation has found prolonged exposure to high humidity, high temperatures and repeated temperature cycling could still cause the propellant to deteriorate over an extended period.

If an affected inflator ruptures when the airbag deploys, metal fragments could be propelled through the airbag and into the cabin at high speed, posing a risk of serious injury or death.

Lexus says there are no warning signs to indicate the condition is present and its investigation of recovered parts has so far found no degradation of the propellant in affected vehicles.

As a result, the manufacturer describes the campaign as a proactive measure and says affected vehicles remain safe to drive.

The new campaign adds another chapter to the long-running Takata airbag saga.

Previously, carsales reported that more than 100 million vehicles were affected globally by Takata recalls, which centred on airbag inflators capable of deteriorating and, in some cases, rupturing during deployment.

Australia introduced a compulsory Takata recall in 2018, encompassing millions of vehicles from numerous manufacturers. carsales reported at the time that about four million Australian vehicles were implicated in the wider recall.

Importantly, the inflators in this latest Lexus campaign should not be confused with the particularly dangerous early 'Alpha' Takata inflators previously subject to stop-drive advice. Previous carsales reporting noted those Alpha inflators used PSAN propellant but represented a distinct, higher-risk category within the broader Takata recall.

Lexus Australia will contact owners of the approximately 7015 affected vehicles with details of the recall.

Dealers will replace the affected front passenger airbag inflator free of charge, with the repair expected to take approximately 4.5 hours. Vehicles may need to remain with the dealer for longer depending on workshop scheduling.

Owners should ensure their contact details are current with Lexus. 

Those with further questions can contact their preferred Lexus dealer or the Lexus Customer Assistance Centre on 1800 023 009, Monday to Friday between 9:30am and 5:30pm AEDT. Owners should have their 17-digit VIN handy.

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