Takata: Several garage chains refuse vehicles with defective airbags

The Takata airbag scandal continues to plague motorists. For several days now, several auto repair shops have been refusing to service vehicles affected by the mass recall until the defective airbags have been replaced. This complicates matters for the approximately 1.7 million owners whose vehicles are subject to the "stop drive" directive, meaning they are banned from the road.

On its website , Speedy set the tone on Friday, August 1: "It is your responsibility to check whether your vehicle is subject to a manufacturer's recall before any intervention in our centers. This check is strictly personal and cannot be carried out by SPEEDY teams." And to warn: "In the event of a proven manufacturer's recall of your vehicle , our centers will not be able to carry out maintenance or repairs until the airbags concerned have been replaced." Even a simple oil change or a change of windshield wipers are therefore excluded.

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The decision was made because of the danger posed by this protective equipment, which can literally explode. Due to a propellant gas that ages poorly, particularly in hot and humid climates, Takata airbags are likely to project metal shards into drivers' faces. Several fatal accidents have been recorded worldwide. Mechanics are therefore also at risk.

In total, 2.5 million vehicles in France are affected by a recall, 1.7 million of which are formally prohibited from use as is. In a decree published Tuesday, July 29, Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot required manufacturers to provide a free mobility solution, such as a courtesy vehicle, if a replacement cannot be made within two weeks.

In this context, other brands are following Speedy's lead. Asked by Le Figaro, Norauto confirmed that "as part of the manufacturer recalls related to Takata airbags, we have decided not to accept vehicles affected by the "stop drive" directive into the workshop." This measure aims to "guarantee the safety of employees in the center," the brand specifies. Only the 600,000 recalled but not immobilized cars can still be received for limited repairs. And among them, "only those with a certificate of conformity issued by the manufacturer will be able to be taken care of in Norauto centers."

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At Feu Vert, the line is clear: "Airbag replacement is mandatory and must be carried out before any trip to one of our centers. This is not a refusal, but a safety duty." The brand insists on educating customers to remind them that driving these vehicles is prohibited, in accordance with official recommendations. At Feu Vert, as at Norauto, an information system is currently being deployed to assist customers in their efforts.

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Contacted by Le Figaro, Midas and Point S have not yet officially detailed their measures. Point S, however, has reportedly joined the refusal movement, according to Libération . In the meantime, motorists should therefore turn to their manufacturer. As Speedy summarizes, "after replacing the airbags and upon presentation of proof of the intervention, we will be able to maintain your vehicles in the best conditions to continue your mobility."