Toyota Seeks Industry Joint Effort to Solve Takata Airbag Issue

December 2, 2014

Patrick Ponticel

The 2003 Toyota Corolla is among a number of vehicle models under recall for the Takata airbag inflator defect.

Toyota today called for a coordinated industry-wide joint initiative to independently test Takata airbag inflators that have been the subject of recent recalls by several automakers. "By combining our collective efforts behind a coordinated, comprehensive testing program, we believe we can achieve greater results. Together we will be better equipped to address this issue more rapidly for all customers," Simon Nagata, President and CEO, Toyota Motor Engineering and Manufacturing North America, Inc., said in a statement. While the specific issue may vary depending on the inflator model, the objective of seeking collaborative third-party testing is to ensure the inflators that require replacement are accurately identified and promptly fixed, the company said. In April 2013, it launched a nationwide recall for Takata-produced front passenger airbag inflators in certain vehicles. This recall is still in effect today. Beginning this month, Toyota will invite all automakers affected by the Takata airbag inflator issues to discuss the potential of a collaborative effort to source independent testing.