The recent issues regarding the Takata airbag recalls have highlighted the importance of resolving outstanding manufacturer recalls in the country of origin.
With safety concerns at the forefront and further to Takata "Alpha" airbags being deemed a prohibited import to New Zealand, from the 1st November 2018 the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) have mandated that any vehicle border inspected with an outstanding airbag recall is to be flagged as “Damaged”.
If vehicles are shipped prior to the recall being completed, the recall will need to be undertaken in New Zealand before the vehicle can be certified for registration and an MR2A issued. This process is likely to incur delays and costs as the manufacturers agents are entitled to prioritise registered vehicles and potentially charge the importer for the work.
In order to provide our customers with the highest level of service, ATL undertake extensive database checks to ensure that any outstanding airbag recalls are identified well in advance of shipping deadlines. This enables the recalls to be completed and closed-out, saving the importer time and money once the vehicle arrives in New Zealand.