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Auto Recyclers Respond to AORC Concerns Over Recycled Air Bags

30 June 2000

Recycled Air Bags are Safe Alternative When Installed Properly

    FAIRFAX, Va. - Today in Washington, D.C., the Automotive Recyclers 
Association voiced concern over material presented in a Automotive Occupant 
Restraints Council presentation which misleads the public when it comes to the 
safety of recycled air bags.

    The Automotive Recyclers Association has stood by the use of undeployed, 
recycled OEM air bags as viable, economical and safe alternatives to the use of 
new, more costly OEM air bags when properly evaluated, handled, shipped and 
professionally installed. "We believe this is a cost effective option for a 
consumer," said Bill Steinkuller, Executive Vice President of ARA, "but, more 
importantly, we also believe that based on research, this is a perfectly safe 
alternative as well."

    The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia, Canada's largest auto
insurer, through independent testing, reached the conclusion that recycled air
bags were "equal to OEM replacements in reliability, and performance." ARA
also commissioned similar comprehensive safety tests on recycled, undeployed
OEM air bag modules. "These tests only reinforced what we already suspected in
regards to recycled air bag safety. Hopefully, it assures consumers as well."
Steinkuller said.

    The fact remains that new OEM air bag failure rates are not zero; this is
proven scientific fact. However, a deployed air bag, which either knowingly or
unknowingly is not replaced and simply disguised by a "cosmetic cover", is
sure to have a 100% non-deployment rate. While this type of "quick fix" is
extremely unsafe, one can understand why some individuals choose to "fix" the
problem this way. In reality, replacement OEM air bags can cost $1,500 or
more, which can simply be too large a repair for many consumers who do not
carry collision insurance to afford. Taking away the recycled air bag option
is putting more consumers at risk as many more "cosmetic fixes" would likely
find their way into the nations vehicles.

    This issue is one that affects consumers greatly, not only financially,
but from a safety standpoint as well. ARA hopes that AORC comes to accept the
fact that properly handled and transported, undeployed and recycled OEM air
bags are appropriate and safe for use in vehicles. ARA would encourage AORC to
focus on reduction or elimination of hazardous substances in the production of
air bag modules, and looks forward to joint efforts with AORC on minimizing
threats to the environment and repair personnel from air bag components.

    Founded in 1943, the Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA) has
represented an industry dedicated to the efficient removal and reuse of
automotive parts, and the proper disposal of inoperable motor vehicles. With
programs such as the Certified Auto Recycler program (CAR) and working
relationships with automotive manufacturers, automotive recycling will
continue to provide consumers with quality, low cost alternatives for vehicle
replacement parts, while preserving our environment for tomorrow.