Honda Owners Ignoring Airbag Recall Notice Worries Honda Malaysia

Honda Malaysia is very concerned to know that there are still a fair number of owners of Honda vehicles affected by the recent airbag recall who have yet to send their vehicle for an inspection by Honda Malaysia, sometimes with fatal consequences.

The company confirms today that there have been two fatal accidents involving faulty Takata airbags installed in two of its vehicles. No official cause of death has been determined yet for either cases but inspections by the Royal Malaysian Police confirmed that in both instances, the airbag inflators were ruptured.

A recall notice have been issued for the two affected Honda models for more than a year already but neither vehicles have had their faulty airbags replaced.

In a fatal accident in Sabah involving a 2006 Honda City that happened on 16-April 2016, a recall for that particular vehicle was issued on May 21, 2015.

In the other fatal accident in Kedah, which happened on 1-May 2016 involving a 2003 Honda City, the recall for was issued on 8-December 2014.

“Honda is communicating with representatives of the drivers’ families in an effort to resolve their remaining concerns. Out of respect for the families, Honda will not provide any personal information,” said Honda Malaysia.

It added, “Honda Malaysia continues urge owners of Honda vehicles affected by the Takata airbag inflator product updates to get their vehicles repaired at authorized dealers as soon as possible. Vehicle owners can check their vehicles’ product updates’ status at www.honda.com.my or call our toll free number at 1-800-88-2020 or visit any Honda authorized dealers.”

In many instances where the vehicle have been sold to another owner who no longer maintains his or her vehicle at an authorised Honda service centre, it could be very difficult for Honda Malaysia to contact the new owner as the company does not have the contact details. The next best alternative is to communicate to the public via announcements through the media. The company has also placed banners announcing the recalls in all its road shows.

If you own a Honda, find out if your vehicle is affected by any recalls here. We commend Honda for its transparency. It is the only brand in the country with a dedicated webpage detailing its recalls.