The owners of 354 ACT vehicles who have not replaced dangerous Takata airbags will have their car registration cancelled or suspended from next month.

More than 71,000 Takata airbags have been replaced in the ACT since the recall was announced in 2018. However, more than 1,200 vehicles with dangerous airbags remain, 354 of which are the most critical type, according to Consumer Affairs Minister, Shane Rattenbury.

He said from 6 April, Access Canberra would begin the process of suspending and cancelling the registration for those 354 vehicles – with the Alpha and critical non-alpha type Takata bags.

“These vehicle owners have received repeated notifications and warnings from vehicle manufacturers and Access Canberra. If they do not take action, the Government will have to take these cars off the road for the safety of the community,” Mr Rattenbury said.

“The risk of harm is very real. There have been more than 330 injuries and 30 deaths worldwide, including one death and three injuries in Australia because of these airbags.”

Vehicle owners with the most critical bags have received two warnings from the Government which flagged the upcoming cancellation or suspension of registration. Owners of the Beta airbags have also received alert notices.

“By getting your airbag replaced, you’re reducing the number of dangerous airbags on our roads and keeping yourself and your family safe,” Mr Rattenbury said.

“Ahead of this long weekend, I urge anyone who hasn’t already checked their vehicle to take five minutes to check their vehicle now for their own safety.

“Takata airbag replacement is free. Just contact your manufacturer’s dealer for an airbag replacement.” 

To find out if your vehicle is affected, search your vehicle at ismyairbagsafe.com.au or download the ACCC factsheet with a list of affected vehicles.