Reclaimal alarm: These dangerous airbags could cost their lives!

Reclaimal alarm: These dangerous airbags could cost their lives!

Frankreich - On April 10, 2025, the French Ministry of Transport published a new recall list for vehicles with Takata Airbags, which among other things affects the automobile manufacturers Mercedes-Benz and Toyota. This measure takes place on the basis of serious security concerns, since airbags can explode when it is triggered and release metal splinters, which leads to serious injuries or even deaths. Around 20 vehicle models that were produced between 2001 and 2018 are affected.

The callback from Mercedes-Benz affects vehicles from the years of construction 2004 to 2016, while Toyota includes models from the period 2002 to 2015. It is particularly alarming that eleven deaths in France have already been registered in connection with these incorrect airbags. Takata, the supplier of this airbags, was liquidated in 2017 because unstable lifting agents are responsible for the problems. This instability can lead to a burst of the metal container, especially in moist weather and temperature fluctuations.

recall actions and security risks

The recall wave, which started with Volkswagen and Audi in March 2025, has now expanded to other manufacturers. Volkswagen and VW commercial vehicles are also affected and have to announce numerous vehicles into the workshops with defective airbags. The affected years of construction of the VW vehicles are between 2005 and 2018. Takata delivered faulty airbags over the years, and the aging through climate influences, such as heat and moisture, represents additional security risks. In an accident, too high pressure in the ignition of the gas generator could arise, which can spin into the vehicle interior.

Vehicle holders are informed in writing about the recall actions and it is urgently advised not to continue using the vehicles in question. The airbags are replaced free of charge in contract workshops from the respective manufacturer. The Ford and Nissan's websites also warn against the risks by the disintegration of the drift, and Nissan points out possible excessive airbag detection in older models.

Checking the vehicle affect

Affected vehicle owners can check online whether your vehicle is included in the recall actions. This is done by entering the vehicle identification number (FIN), which can be found in vehicle documents and in the lower area of ​​the windshield. In view of the seriousness of the situation, it is advisable to carry out a proactive check, since current owners of older used cars may not have received a recovery notification.

It is recommended not to use affected vehicles until repair. Many workshops also offer replacement vehicles in order to facilitate mobility. The workshop stays for the exchange of components last about an hour and are also free of charge. The lists of the affected years of construction are continuously expanded by the manufacturers based on new analyzes. In order to ensure the safety of the drivers and passengers, it is important to take the recommended measures seriously and act in good time.

Further information on the recalls and affected vehicles are on the pages of kosmo and adac available.