JLR initiates Takata recall for MY2017 models

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has commenced the next phase of its Takata airbag recall in Australia, issuing notices for the 2017 model-year Jaguar XE, XF and F-Pace, along with the Land Rover Discovery Sport.

All vehicles affected by this notice are being asked back for their driver's side airbags, which can experience degradation of their inflator propellant if they are exposed to high temperatures and humidity over time.

If the condition occurs and the vehicle is involved in an accident that triggers the airbag, the metal inflator housing could rupture upon deployment, shooting metal fragments into the cabin.

This poses a serious risk of injury, even death to the vehicle's occupants. It's worth noting these recalled models wear the less-serious 'beta' rating.

A total of 2581 Jaguar models are affected, along with 1081 Discovery Sports. VIN lists for the respective brands are available here (Jaguar) and here (Land Rover).

Owners are advised to contact their local Jaguar Land Rover dealership to arrange for a replacement airbag, free of charge.

For more information use the VIN look-up tool on the company's website, or call 1800 312 828.

The Takata airbag recall affects more than 100 million vehicles and nearly 20 automotive brands around the world. Among those are more than five million vehicles in Australia, the equivalent of four years of nationwide sales.

Globally, there have been 20 deaths linked to the scandal, and 230 serious injuries. One Australian motorist lost their life to a faulty Takata airbag in July 2017, one month after another Australian driver was seriously injured.

In February 2018, the recall of vehicles affected by the faulty Takata airbags was made compulsory under law, with affected manufacturers required to replace all defective airbags by the end of 2020. The ACCC earlier this year added some 1.1 million vehicles to the compulsory recall.

According to the Australian Government, the risk of a defective Takata airbag rupturing may arise between 6 and 25 years after it is installed in a vehicle. In areas of high heat and humidity, the risk of rupture may arise between 6 and 9 years.

Concerned owners can check if their vehicle needs a new inflator at www.IsMyAirbagSafe.com.au.

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