Airbag Recalls 2026: Current Overview
Airbag Recalls 2026: Current Overview
Numerous airbag recall campaigns are ongoing in Germany in 2026 as well – particularly the worldwide Takata recall continues to affect millions of vehicles. Affected owners are contacted by the manufacturer and can have their vehicle repaired free of charge at an authorized workshop. Participation in the recall is mandatory.
The Takata airbag scandal is the largest recall in automotive history: over 100 million vehicles from more than 20 manufacturers are affected worldwide. In Germany, the recalls have been carried out in stages since 2013 – and in 2026, additional vehicles are still being called into workshops. In addition, there are occasional recalls from other airbag manufacturers.
Why are airbags being recalled?
The main reason for the current recalls is defective gas generators from the Japanese supplier Takata. The propellant used (ammonium nitrate) can decompose under heat and moisture. When deployed, the gas generator can then explode with excessive force and propel metal fragments into the interior.
| Problem | Description | Danger |
|---|---|---|
| Takata PSAN gas generator | Ammonium nitrate propellant degrades over time | Overpressure during deployment, metal fragments |
| Takata NADI gas generator | Older generation (1997-2001) with similar problem | Gas generator rupture possible |
| Unintended deployment | Propellant can ignite without accident | Risk of injury without impact |
| Non-deployment | Degraded propellant generates insufficient pressure | Airbag does not deploy correctly |
Which manufacturers are affected?
Nearly all major automotive manufacturers are affected by the Takata recall – including VW, Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Opel, Ford, Seat, Skoda, Toyota, Honda and many others. The affected model years range from 1997 to 2018, depending on the manufacturer.
| Manufacturer | Affected Model Years | Status 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| VW / VW Commercial Vehicles | 2005 – 2018 | Ongoing, new stages being added |
| Audi | 1997 – 2018 (PSAN + NADI) | Ongoing |
| BMW | 1998 – 2006 (E46 final stage) | Final round for 3 Series E46 |
| Mercedes-Benz | 2002 – 2006 (Vans) | Major recall 222,969 vehicles worldwide |
| Skoda | 2005 – 2018 | 13,500 vehicles in Germany |
| Seat | 2005 – 2018 | Ongoing |
| Ford | 2004 – 2015 | Ongoing |
| Opel | 2004 – 2014 | Ongoing |
| Citroën / DS | 2009 – 2017 | Stop-drive order active |
Special case: VW recall for passenger airbag (not Takata)
In addition to the Takata recall, VW launched a separate recall for over 16,500 vehicles in 2025/2026 – affecting ID.7, ID.7 Tourer, ID.Buzz as well as Polo, Passat and Taigo. The passenger airbag may be defective. Until the repair, the passenger seat should not be used and the passenger airbag should be deactivated.
Am I affected? How to check your vehicle
You can check free of charge whether your vehicle is affected by an airbag recall via the recall database of the Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) or your vehicle manufacturer's website. You only need your Vehicle Identification Number (FIN/VIN) from your vehicle registration document.
- Find FIN: In the vehicle registration document (field E), on the type plate or at the bottom of the windshield
- Use KBA database: Enter your FIN at kba-online.de and check
- Manufacturer website: All affected brands offer a FIN check on their homepage
- Pay attention to owner mail: The KBA or manufacturer also informs affected owners by post
What happens if I ignore the recall?
Participation in a safety-related recall is mandatory in Germany. Anyone who does not comply with the request may have their operating permit revoked by the KBA – the vehicle may then no longer be driven on public roads. In addition, insurance coverage may lapse in the event of a known safety defect.
What happens during the recall at the workshop?
During an airbag recall, the affected gas generator or the complete airbag module is replaced free of charge at an authorized workshop. The work takes between one and three hours depending on the vehicle and position of the airbag. The costs are fully covered by the manufacturer.
| Step | Description | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Accept vehicle | Check FIN, confirm recall | 10 min. |
| Deactivate airbag system | Disconnect battery, discharge capacitor | 15 min. |
| Remove affected airbag | Depending on position: steering wheel, dashboard or seat | 30-90 min. |
| Install new module | Mount replacement part, connect plugs | 30-60 min. |
| Test system | Clear fault memory, function test | 15 min. |
Takata recall: The scale of the problem
The Takata airbag recall is the largest product recall in automotive history. Over 100 million vehicles from more than 20 manufacturers are affected worldwide. So far, over 30 deaths and more than 300 injuries have been linked to the defective airbags.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Affected vehicles worldwide | Over 100 million |
| Affected manufacturers | Over 20 |
| Deaths (confirmed) | Over 30 worldwide |
| Injured | Over 300 worldwide |
| Recall ongoing since | 2013 |
| Affected model years | 1997 – 2018 |
France has even imposed a driving ban on hundreds of thousands of affected vehicles following a fatal accident involving a defective Takata airbag. In Germany, the KBA has so far proceeded with operating bans for unrepaired vehicles.
Airbag repair after recall: Support from Airbag24
If your vehicle needs a new airbag control unit after a recall or accident, or crash data needs to be cleared, Airbag24 can help. We repair airbag control units for all brands – TÜV-certified and with over 20 years of experience.
- Clear crash data: After accident or recall work
- Control unit repair: If the control unit was damaged during recall work
- Replacement parts: Crash sensors, clock springs and belt tensioners for all brands
- Consultation: We help with questions about recalls and airbag repair
Frequently asked questions about airbag recalls
Here you will find answers to the most important questions about airbag recall campaigns.
Do I have to pay for the recall?
No, all costs for a manufacturer recall are covered by the vehicle manufacturer. This applies to replacement parts, labor and any necessary loaner vehicles. You pay nothing – even if the vehicle is already out of warranty.
What do I do if my vehicle is affected but no appointment is available?
For some recalls there are waiting times because replacement parts are not immediately available for all vehicles. In this case, you should avoid using the passenger seat if possible (for passenger airbag recalls) and drive with extra caution. The manufacturer will contact you as soon as the parts are available.
Does the Takata recall also affect used vehicles?
Yes, the recall applies to the vehicle, not the original owner. Even as a used car buyer, you will be informed by the manufacturer or KBA, provided the vehicle is registered to you. When buying a used car, always check whether there are outstanding recalls.
Can I pass the TÜV inspection with an open recall?
Generally yes, as long as the airbag warning light is not illuminated and the system appears functional. However, for safety-critical recalls (such as stop-drive orders), the KBA can revoke the operating permit, which makes a TÜV inspection impossible.