The Takata airbag-related recalls have been ongoing since the early 2000s and millions of vehicles of numerous brands have had their airbag inflator modules replaced. The replacement was urgent as there were many cases where the inflator module broke up during inflation of the airbag. With the broken metal pieces shooting at the driver (or front passenger) at up to 200 km/h, serious injuries and deaths occurred in the vehicles.
The dangerous inflator modules were installed in the early 2000s and though it is now over 20 years later, there are still many vehicles in use which may not have had the module replaced. As it is quite a long period of time, the vehicles may also have changed ownership so the authorised distributors (who are primarily responsible for handling recalls) may be unable to inform the actual owners of the vehicle at present as they may not have contact information.
In this case, those who own affected vehicles should contact the authorised distributor of the brand for assistance if they are aware of a recall. Representatives of brands in Malaysia would be obliged to assist in such critical matters.
PHS Automotive Malaysia (PHSAM), which handles the Audi brand in Malaysia, is such a representative and has announced a voluntary recall for 2,767 Audi vehicles. The recall covers the following models manufactured between 2008 to 2017: A4 Sedan, A5 Sportback, A6 Sedan, Q5 and TT Coupe. These were fitted with Takata airbags or the gas generator (inflator module) for the airbag unit on the driver’s side, passenger side and the curtain airbags.
According to Audi’s latest information, it is possible that the gas generator housing may be damaged if the airbag is deployed. This could cause small metal parts to become dislodged from the housing, posing a serious safety risk.
“At Audi, safety is paramount, and this will continue to be one of the distinguishing factors in our ongoing efforts to improve aftersales service. We recognise that the top reasons customers choose Audi are for its performance and safety features – and it is a high standard we will continue to uphold responsibly,” said Erik Winter, Managing Director of PHSAM.
“Although we have determined the number of vehicles for this recall, it’s possible that not all of them will need replacement parts. Nevertheless, we want to encourage owners to get their vehicles inspected at our service centres for better peace of mind,” Mr. Winter said.
Owners who are unsure whether their Audi vehicle is affected by this recall campaign are advised to visit the Audi Malaysia website. Alternatively, they can contact Audi Customer Service at 1-800-22-2834 or email info@phsautomotive.com.my. The owner will not be charged for the parts and labour costs related to this recall exercise.
Incidentally, owners of vehicles which are 5 years and older are also eligible for the recently launched Audi Plus programme. This offers a 10% discount on maintenance service at any Audi Centre in Malaysia. Customers will also receive 3 service discount vouchers which are applicable within a period of 3 years after the 5th year of service along with complimentary Audi Roadside Assistance nationwide for up to 12 months from the date of voucher redemption.
