Life-threatening airbag recall: These models are affected!

Life-threatening airbag recall: These models are affected!

On April 10, 2025, the French Ministry of Transport announced a recall of dangerous Takata airbags. This recall affects numerous Mercedes-Benz and Toyota models produced between 2001 and 2018. If deployed, the dangerous airbags can explode and release metal fragments, which can result in serious injury or even death. Eleven deaths related to these airbags have already been reported in France, highlighting the urgency of this measure. Several drivers are informed in writing by the manufacturers; We do not recommend using the affected vehicles until they are repaired. The airbags are replaced free of charge in authorized workshops.

The affected Mercedes-Benz models include the A-Class, C-Class (generations II and III), E-Class IV, M-Class, R-Class, GL, SLK, SLS and GLK. Vehicles such as the Yaris (2001-2017), Auris (2006-2013), Avensis (2002-2008), Corolla (2001-2010), Hilux (2005-2015) and RAV4 (2003-2005) have been identified in Toyota's range.Other manufacturers, including Volkswagen and Audi, are also affected again as the wave of recalls expands.

Details about the recalls

Over the years, Takata, a leading airbag supplier, has repeatedly delivered airbags with faulty inflators. These defects, which can be caused by aging and climatic influences such as heat and humidity, increase the risk of a dangerous pressure build-up when the airbag is deployed. This pressure can cause the airbag to explode, propelling metal parts into the vehicle interior, which can result in serious injury or even death.

The recall also includes Volkswagen vehicles produced between 2005 and 2018. The visit to the workshop to replace the components usually takes around an hour and is free of charge for the vehicle owners. The list of model years affected is continually being expanded based on analyzes by VW.

How to check if your vehicle is affected

Vehicle owners can check online whether their car is affected by the recalls by entering the vehicle identification number (VIN) on the respective manufacturer's websites. This 17-digit number can be found in the vehicle documents and at the bottom of the windshield. If the result is positive, the vehicles should no longer be used until repaired.

In addition, Ford and Nissan are also warning of problems with airbags in older models, underscoring the far-reaching consequences of the Takata breakdown. The situation remains tense as the damage cases have a far-reaching impact on vehicle owners and manufacturers.