Takata Airbag Scandal: UFC-Que Choisir Resumes its Fight

UFC-Que Choisir Files a New Complaint Against BMW, Mercedes, Toyota, and Volkswagen Regarding Takata Airbags

This legal action by UFC-Que Choisir complements an initial complaint against Stellantis filed in January. It follows a tragic incident in March 2025 in Guadeloupe, where a defective Takata airbag was involved in a fatality.

The reasons cited include deceptive commercial practices and alleged inadequate risk management for consumer safety.

Takata airbags, defective due to a risk of explosion with projection of metallic fragments, have been known for their danger for over a decade. However, according to the consumer advocacy group, the measures taken by some manufacturers were delayed and partial:

• Volkswagen carried out recalls in 2025, but without a prior public information campaign.
• The other brands only implemented immobilization recalls (“stop-drive”) after a ministerial order on April 9, 2025.
• The recall campaigns often targeted a limited number of models, whereas more vehicles appear to be equipped with these airbags according to data from the Ministry of Transport.

The notifications sent to consumers have sometimes minimized the seriousness of the issue, not fully reflecting the risks involved.

UFC-Que Choisir Calls on Parliament

UFC-Que Choisir highlights gaps in the management of these recalls, including insufficient information and a lack of proper follow-up for consumers. According to the association, these practices could have prolonged exposure of drivers to significant risks.

In a context involving multiple manufacturers and models, the organization reiterates its call for a parliamentary inquiry commission. The goal is to examine both industrial and administrative responsibilities and propose systemic improvements to ensure consumer safety.

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