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Australia recalls Lexus IS models again over replacement airbag risk
Australia’s consumer watchdog has recalled several Lexus IS models for a second time because replacement airbag inflators fitted during an earlier Takata recall may also degrade. The recall matters because faulty inflators can rupture and send shrapnel into the vehicle, and at least one person in Australia has died from such an incident.
Affected models include the IS 250, IS 250C, IS 350 and IS F. Lexus says its investigation has not identified propellant degradation in recovered parts, but prolonged exposure to high humidity and heat may cause the inflators to deteriorate; the replacements will be completed at no cost to owners.
In short
- Several Lexus IS models need a second airbag inflator replacement.
- Heat and humidity may cause the replacement inflators to degrade.
- Lexus says owners can have the work done at no cost.
Explained simply
Takata supplied airbag inflators to carmakers around the world. Some inflators can deteriorate over time, especially in hot, humid conditions, and may rupture when the airbag opens, sending metal fragments into the car.
Lexus is Toyota’s luxury car brand, and the affected vehicles are certain IS saloon and coupé-cabriolet models. The replacement inflators were fitted as part of an earlier recall, but are now also being replaced free of charge.
The risk matters because a rupture can seriously injure or kill people in the vehicle; at least one death in Australia has been linked to this type of incident. Owners of affected cars can check the recall information with Lexus or Australia’s consumer watchdog.
Read the full article at the source →
Originally published by Daily Mail as “Thousands of Lexus cars recalled in Australia over ‘deadly’ safety flaw”.