Millions of British motorists could be driving vehicles with potentially lethal airbag defects, as major manufacturers including Renault, Honda, Mazda and Ford issue urgent safety recalls.
Which Vehicles Are Affected?
The recall affects models manufactured between 2005 and 2015 that contain Takata airbag inflators. These defective components can explode with excessive force when deployed, potentially spraying metal shrapnel throughout the vehicle cabin.
The At-Risk Models Include:
- Renault: Certain Espace, Megane and Scenic models
- Honda: Selected Civic, CR-V and Jazz vehicles
- Mazda: Some RX-8 and 6 series cars
- Ford: Particular Ranger pickups and Galaxy people carriers
Why These Airbags Are So Dangerous
The defective Takata airbags have been linked to at least 23 deaths and hundreds of injuries worldwide. The problem stems from chemical propellant that can degrade over time, especially in humid conditions. When activated, the unstable compound can cause the inflator to rupture violently.
Safety experts warn: "This isn't a minor fault - we're talking about metal fragments being propelled at passengers' heads and chests at high velocity."
What Should UK Drivers Do?
- Check your vehicle's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) against manufacturer recall lists
- Contact your local dealership immediately if your car is affected
- Avoid using the passenger seat until repairs are completed
- Never attempt DIY repairs on airbag systems
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has urged all affected owners to respond to recall notices without delay. Replacement parts are now available for most models, with repairs typically taking less than two hours to complete.
