Faulty airbags still at large

ACCORDING to new research from the ACCC, hundreds of Ballarat residents are continuing to drive cars with faulty Takata airbags installed.

The figures show while 9890 vehicles in Ballarat have had their dangerous airbags removed and replaced, there are still 249 cars that still require the fix.

The ACCC deputy chair Delia Rickard said these airbags are hazardous to drivers and passengers in any capacity.

“These airbags have the potential to explode with too much force, even in low speed accidents,” he said. “It is important that we all help spread the word.”

Worldwide there have already been over than 330 injuries and 30 deaths reported, with one death and three injuries in Australia, linked to faulty Takata airbags.

As part of the national recall drivers are entitled to have their dangerous Takata airbags replaced totally free of charge.

“It takes less than a minute to check and together we can help reduce the number of dangerous airbags in cars on our roads,” Mr Rickard said.

“Anyone whose car is subject to the recall should not delay and contact a dealership to book their car in urgently for a free airbag replacement.”

Vehicle owners can check if their airbag is one of the faulty types by entering their number plate and state or territory at ismyairbagsafe.com.au, or by texting TAKATA to 0487 AIRBAG (247 224).