Mandatory Technical Inspection in France to Target Dangerous Takata 'Stop Drive' Airbags from January 2026

From January 1, 2026, France will implement enhanced vehicle technical inspections specifically targeting Takata airbags classified as 'stop drive,' as announced by the Ministry of Transport on December 8. Approximately 1.3 million vehicles with these defective airbags remain on French roads. Vehicles found equipped with 'stop drive' Takata airbags will fail the inspection unless repaired by certified mechanics at authorized garages and will be banned from being driven until fixed.

These airbags are notorious for their dangerous propensity to explode due to a degrading propellant gas, particularly in hot and humid climates, which has led to a series of accidents globally. In France alone, 46 accidents linked to defective Takata airbags have been reported, resulting in 20 fatalities—18 of which occurred in overseas territories.

The Ministry strongly encourages vehicle owners to verify if their cars are subject to a Takata airbag recall ahead of their technical inspection appointments. The new regulations reflect a commitment to enhancing road safety by preventing the circulation of vehicles with these hazardous devices.

Airbags are critical safety devices designed to deploy within milliseconds to protect occupants during collisions, supplementing seat belts by preventing serious head and neck injuries. The defective Takata airbags, however, have led to severe safety concerns as their propellant degrades over time, increasing the risk of explosions upon deployment.

This comprehensive inspection measure is part of a broader global effort to address the Takata airbag scandal, involving a Japanese company now bankrupt after a decade-long crisis related to these faulty airbags. The new mandatory checks and repair requirements aim to mitigate risks and inform drivers about the latent dangers associated with their vehicles, reinforcing France's commitment to road safety.

Authorities emphasize that vehicles without repaired Takata airbags will not only fail technical inspections but also face immediate bans from use until compliant repairs are made, underscoring the seriousness of this safety initiative.