Takata Alpha airbag inflator compulsory product recall

The purpose of this compulsory product recall is to:

• stop the proliferation of affected vehicles in New Zealand
• drive consumer uptake
• ensure a consistent response from affected vehicle suppliers in completion of the recall, and
• protect New Zealanders from potential injury or death.

It complements and accelerates work already being undertaken by the New Zealand motor vehicle industry on a voluntary basis.

Alpha airbag inflators are a subset of inflators in the wider global Takata airbag inflator recall. Alpha airbag inflators pose a significantly greater risk of misdeploying in an accident and sending fragments toward vehicle occupants. While there have been no identified incidents, injuries or deaths in New Zealand to date, the overseas incidents and the increased level of risk necessitates the prioritisation of the Alpha airbag inflator recall in New Zealand.

Application

The compulsory recall order applies to all New Zealand in-trade suppliers of affected vehicles — that is, vehicles that contain one or more Takata Alpha type airbag inflator.

Effective date

The recall comes into effect on 31 May 2018 (a 40 working day transition period has been established).

Recall requirements

The compulsory recall order requires suppliers to:

• Communicate the recall to consumers with affected vehicles by specified means.
• Repair affected vehicles by replacing Alpha airbag inflators.
• Submit monthly progress reporting.
• Complete all recall repairs by 31 December 2019.

Sales prohibition

The compulsory recall order prohibits the supply in trade of affected vehicles in New Zealand. That is, from 31 May 2018 selling affected vehicles in trade will not be legal.

Import prohibition

The compulsory recall order prohibits the import of affected vehicles. Affected vehicles are a prohibited import under the Customs and Excise Act 1996. From 31 May 2018 affected vehicles are forfeit and may be seized by the New Zealand Customs Service.

Compliance and enforcement

The compulsory recall order is enforced by the Commerce Commission. Failure to comply with the compulsory recall order can, on conviction, result in fines of up to $200,000 for individuals and up to $600,000 for businesses.

View the recall order

Compulsory Takata Alpha Airbag Inflator Recall Order 2018 [PDF, 247 KB]