ARA respects eBay’s decision to discontinue the sale of airbags on its platform after September 24. While we are disappointed to see the program end, we appreciate eBay’s partnership and the significant thought, discussion, and consideration that went into this decision. Over the years, eBay worked closely with ARA to develop safety, training, certification, recall verification, and compliance standards designed to protect consumers and promote responsible recycling.
We recognize the considerable pressure eBay has faced regarding online airbag sales and appreciate their commitment to engaging with industry experts and prioritizing safety and compliance throughout this process.
Although online sales through eBay will end, lawful over-the-counter airbag sales will continue in accordance with state laws, making ARA’s Recall Program as important as ever. The program helps recyclers identify and remove recalled airbags from inventory before they reach the marketplace, supporting consumer safety and responsible recycling practices.
As this chapter comes to a close, ARA is excited about the upcoming release of the Quality Compliance program and CARE designation for auto recyclers. These programs will create opportunity to continue strengthening trust in recycled OEM parts. CARE provides independent verification that a recycler meets rigorous standards for safety, environmental compliance, quality assurance, and responsible business practices. Building on many of the same principles that guided the ARA/eBay partnership, CARE helps identify professional recyclers committed to doing things the right way while giving consumers, repairers, insurers, and regulators greater confidence in the recycled parts marketplace.
ARA also remains committed to working alongside NHTSA, vehicle manufacturers, and other industry stakeholders to provide recyclers with the information and resources needed to identify potential counterfeit airbags, recognize warning signs, and understand the proper steps for reporting suspicious products. Education, awareness, and collaboration remain critical to preventing counterfeit and unsafe airbags from entering the marketplace.
We thank eBay for its collaboration and remain committed to advancing safe, compliant, and responsible recycling practices across the automotive industry.
