Takata Airbags: Is Your Volkswagen Banned from Driving?
This page is translated from the original post "Airbags Takata : votre Volkswagen est-elle interdite de circuler ?" in French.

Volkswagen does not communicate about its Takata airbag problems in France, but many models must stop driving immediately!
In France, the Stellantis group is currently under fire regarding the Takata airbag scandal. However, the Volkswagen group remains discreet, even “light” towards its customers, as Mobiwisy has already reported recently.
However, in light of the worsening situation and the increasing number of fatal accidents (over 12 deaths in France alone), the Ministry in charge of Transport has taken over the case and is imposing immediate immobilizations of the affected vehicles. To date, more than 2.3 million vehicles still require airbag replacement. To raise awareness among owners, a specific mention will appear on the technical inspection report of the affected vehicles starting in early March.
To limit these dangers, strict measures have been implemented, including recall campaigns and driving bans (stop drive). This is now the case for approximately 230,000 Volkswagen and Audi vehicles banned from circulation this February! However, the process of informing customers is very challenging, according to the group in France:
“Volkswagen initiated dedicated recalls globally in 2016 and has been deploying it in France since 2021. Several factors must be taken into account to determine the categories of vehicles potentially affected by the recall, which is part of a plan that unfolds progressively, step by step, over several years. The recalls are conducted in a targeted manner based on a risk categorization, notably according to the vehicle’s age and climatic conditions.”
“To ensure maximum safety and reach, the group ensures that each affected customer is contacted directly by mail and through dedicated information campaigns. It is essential for customers to verify that the information contained in their registration certificate (name and postal address) is up to date with the ANTS. Volkswagen is also collaborating with the relevant national regulatory authorities to strengthen access to information quickly and reliably.”
Since February 14, 2025, prohibitions on circulation are being put in place. Volkswagen France explains this to Mobiwisy:
“In agreement with the Vehicle and Engine Market Surveillance Service (SSMVM), we will conduct a follow-up action starting from 14/02/2025 with ‘STOP DRIVE’ in mainland France. This measure concerns vehicles equipped with a TAKATA airbag with an ammonium nitrate gas generator that have already been subjected to a recall over a year ago (but have not yet gone to the workshop) and are circulating in mainland France. This additional follow-up communication sent to the Customer will include a request to ‘immediately cease the use of their vehicle and schedule an appointment as soon as possible’ with an authorized repairer of their choice to proceed with the necessary replacement of parts. It is essential for customers to ensure that the information on their registration certificate (name and postal address) is up to date with the ANTS.“
Which Audis and Volkswagens are affected?
Volkswagen Takata Recall (February 2025)
- Crafter: 2006-2017
- Eos: 2010-2011
- Fox: 2007-2011
- Golf Plus: 2009-2014
- Golf VI: 2009-2013
- Passat CC: 2009-2017
- Passat VI: 2006-2010
- Passat VII: 2011-2015
- Polo IV : 2007-2010
- Polo V : 2010-2014
- Sharan II: 2011-2015
- Up: 2012-2016
Audi Takata Recall (February 2025)
- A3: 2006-2013
- A4 (B7) : 2005-2008
- A4 Cabrio: 2007-2009
- A5 / A5 Cabrio I: 2010-2011
- A6 III: 2005-2011
- Q5 I: 2009-2012
- TT III: 2016-2017
- R8 I and II: 2015-2017
Check if your vehicle is affected by this recall by entering your vehicle’s serial number (VIN):
- Volkswagen Takata recall site
- Audi Takata recall site
- Seat Takata recall site
- Skoda Takata recall site
Share your experience with us in the comments.
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