MORE than 1500 vehicles in the Hunter are still fitted with a potentially deadly airbag subject to a global recall.
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The ACCC is urging motorists to check if their vehicle has a Takata airbag after data revealed 26,197 vehicles in NSW are yet to be repaired, including 1509 in Newcastle and Maitland.
Certain types of Takata airbags have a design defect which may cause too much explosive force in the airbag.
There have been more than 330 injuries and 30 deaths reported worldwide, including one death and three injuries in Australia.
Vehicle manufactures are required to ensure all cars with affected Takata airbags have their airbags replaced by 2021, but the ACCC remains concerned about the number yet to be fixed.
"These airbags are very dangerous and have the potential to explode with too much force, even in low speed accidents, sending sharp metal fragments into the vehicle at high speed, potentially killing or seriously injuring its occupants," ACCC deputy chair Delia Rickard said.
More than 54,800 vehicles have been repaired in Newcastle and Maitland and 34,863 on the Central Coast.
Owners of those not yet repaired will not be able to renew their registration.
"Vehicles which contain a 'critical' airbag should not be driven at all," Ms Rickard said.
"Contact the manufacturer to arrange for it to be towed or a technician to be sent to you so the airbag can be replaced."
Enter number plates at ismyairbagsafe.com.au or text TAKATA to 0487 247 224 to check if your vehicle requires a replacement airbag.