Faulty airbags were a major contributory factor behind another climb in automotive recalls

Faulty airbags were a major contributory factor behind another climb in automotive recalls in Europe during the first quarter of this year, according to the Recall and Notification Index published by Stericycle ExpertSOLUTIONS, the global leader in automotive and product recall solutions.

Conversely, the number of recalls relating to consumer products dropped by a significant 25.4%, indicating that the high figures recorded at the end of last year were an anomaly when compared with quarter on quarter trends. However, the 364 recalls recorded were still at higher levels than in four of the last seven quarters.

Exploding auto recalls

Motor vehicle recalls show no sign of abating as the number for the quarter increased to 122 over 93 in Q4 2016. Airbags accounted for 41.4% of these incidents in passenger vehicles, compared to 18.3% in Q4, and were followed by steering and fuel related problems. However, the sector was also hit by a number of machinery related issues and marked the largest number in one quarter during the history of the RAPEX system.

In terms of the country of origin from which the recalls stemmed, Germany was again at the top of the list with 40 recalls, followed by France with 29 and the UK with 14. China registered 12 and the United States 8.

Farzad Henareh, European Vice President at Stericycle Expert Solutions, commented: “Looking at an average of auto recalls over the past year it is clear to see just how sharp the rise has been. It is no secret that motor manufacturers have had challenges to deal with which are clearly reflected in the number of recalls and notifications. As the number of connected and autonomous vehicles entering the market increases, these advancements will only add to the complexity.”