No UAE disruption over Toyota, Nissan and Honda recalls expected

Dubai: Prospects of a major disruption in the UAE and GCC automotive markets following the latest global recalls — by Toyota, Nissan and Honda — over a problematic airbag seems remote, industry sources say based on initial checks. The majority of the affected models are in use in the US, Europe and Japan.

Recalls have been an occupational hazard for the global auto industry especially in the last three years. Obviously, with the latest announcement it looks like this year will be no different.

Al Futtaim Motors, the importer for Toyota, put out an instant update saying that it was working with the Japanese manufacturer to “determine the details of the voluntary service campaign for the UAE market”.

“The campaign involves 2001- to 2003-year model Camry and Corolla vehicles equipped with front passenger airbag inflators which could have been assembled with improperly manufactured propellant wafers,” the statement added. “Improperly manufactured propellant wafers could cause the inflator to rupture and the front passenger airbag to deploy abnormally in the event of a crash.

“As soon as specific details of the UAE market situation are clear, Al Futtaim Motors will contact customers directly for a vehicle inspection, and replacement of parts if required. Should customers have any questions or concerns, they can contact the Toyota Customer Care team on 800 TOYOTA for further information and assistance.”

Under scrutiny

An estimated 1.73 million Toyota models are said to be under scrutiny as part of the latest recall. Honda has 1.14 million units in this recall programme, while Nissan has 480,000 units (including 130,000 units in Japan). Mazda is pulling in another 45,000 units.

Details regarding the Nissan and Honda recall possibilities in the GCC were unknown at the time of going to press. It is not known which models and the year of manufacture would come under the recall process.

The fact that the Toyota models in question relate to the 2001-2003 model year suggests that a good number would have already changed hands from the original owners. “Retention periods in the Gulf are much lower than the average elsewhere, and these models have also long since passed their agency repair timelines,” said an industry source.

“Moreover, in the case of fleet operators, it is unlikely any of them would still have in operation these vintage models.”

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