The new laws, brought in by the Federal Government to force the compulsory recall of 2.3 million Australian cars, meant dealers would not be able to sell new vehicles fitted with the defective airbags, or used vehicles covered by an active recall. Spare parts suppliers and wreckers will also be impacted.

RACQ Head of Technical and Safety Policy Steve Spalding said new car dealers had until the end of the year to get airbags replaced.

“This is a critical issue. These airbags are potentially dangerous,” Mr Spalding said.

“This law is designed to ensure the issue is taken seriously by all in the motor industry so that these dangerous airbags are removed from circulation as soon as possible.”

Mr Spalding said there was no legal requirement for private sellers to inform prospective buyers of an outstanding recall, it was recommended.

“This law doesn’t impact private car sales, so its important prospective buyers do their homework and check if the vehicle is part of this extensive recall and not rely solely on a seller’s advice,” he said.

Just days after the ACCC announcement, Holden released its list of 333,000 affected models. It covers ten models, including Astra, Barina, Cruise and Trax, as well as two Saab models.