Toyota South Africa recalls more than 700,000 cars over airbags
With reference to the Citizen, 25 January 2018
Toyota South Africa Motors said Thursday it had issued a notice to recall more than 700,000 vehicles over airbag safety concerns, with some affected models dating back over 15 years.
Toyota said the recall was required to replace front airbag inflators produced by parts firm Takata. These had been found to have a potential for moisture intrusion, which could cause them to burst.
“In the event of an inflator rupture, metal fragments could pass through the airbag cushion material, striking and possibly injuring the occupants in the event of an accident,” said a statement.
The company said that no injuries or fatalities had been caused so far by the fault.
A total of 730,000 vehicles were said to have been impacted, with some of the various models dating back to 2002, according to company spokesman Clynton Yon.
Toyota makes vehicles for the local and export markets at their manufacturing plant, south of the eastern port city of Durban
The faulty airbags, made by Japanese company Takata, have caused some other manufacturers to recall their cars.
