Car safety

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Consumer

Car product safety

Product safety for car products protects drivers and passengers from serious injuries. Key safety concerns include using car jacks safely and defective Takata airbags.

Product safety Australia have safety guides and tips for using:

  • Support stands for vehicles
  • Motor vehicle recovery straps
  • Ramps for motor vehicles
  • Vehicle jacks 
  • Trolley jacks
  • Tinted headlight covers

Car jack safety

DIY car maintenance accidents have caused death and serious injuries.

Most fatalities occurred from people not properly lifting or supporting the vehicle while working under it. Most of these accidents involved men aged 40 to 49.

To help prevent these accidents, here are some key safety tips for DIY vehicle mainttenance:

  • Never get under a car supported by only a vehicle jack
  • Always use a trolley jack to lift the car, then lower it onto vehicle support stands.
  • Use vehicle support stands on a flat, hard surface before working under the car.
  • Never place any part of your body under a vehicle unless it is securely supported by stands or ramps.
  • Don’t let any person or pet stay in the vehicle while it's being lifted.
  • Don’t exceed the weight limit of the jack.
  • Perform maintenance on stable, level ground, not on sand or an incline.
  • Avoid using makeshift supports like blocks of wood or bricks.
  • Engage the handbrake as instructed for safety.
  • Always 'chock' the wheels of a raised vehicle to prevent movement.
  • Follow the product instructions.
  • Report any faulty equipment to Consumer Protection WA by email or call 1300 30 40 54.

The ACCC video below explains the correct procedures for common DIY car maintenance tasks to help keep you safe.

More information:

Takata airbag recalls and replacements 

Takata airbags, found in millions of vehicles, were recalled in 2018. The airbags had faulty inflators which were exploding, causing severe injury or death.

Product Safety Australia has a searchable list of recalled vehicles.

Most recalled vehicles have had their air bags replaced, but there may be still some in circulation.

Motor vehicle repairers and dealers are urged to keep checking if customers vehicles are affected by the recall.

Replacement of recalled airbags are free of charge.

Further information about the compulsory recall

Product Safety Australia has further information on the compulsory Takata airbag recall, including:

  • a list of recalled vehicles
  • what drivers and suppliers should do
  • consumer FAQ
  • manufacturer helplines and contact details

Go to Product Safety Australia's website - Compulsory Takata airbag recall https://www.productsafety.gov.au/recalls/compulsory-takata-airbag-recall

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