Owners of Mitsubishi QE Pajero Sport models built between May 2016 and November 2019 and equipped with aftermarket tow-bars have been urged to check the details of the tow-bars due to a potential cracking issue.

The ACCC issued the recall alert via its Product Safety Australia website advising that PIAK brand tow-bars suitable for the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport and sold by Bapcor retail outlets trading as Opposite Lock Stores, Autobarn and online were potentially defective.

The alert advises that the left and right tow-bar attachment bracket may crack causing the tow-bar to detach from the vehicle.

The ACCC said if this were to happen while the vehicle was towing, there would be a loss of vehicle and trailer control which could result in the injury or death of vehicle occupants and other road users.    

The affected PIAK brand tow-bars are designed to suit Mitsubishi QE Pajero Sport models built between May 2016 and November 2019.

The tow-bars were sold by Bapcor Retail outlets between 1 October 2019 and 31 May 2022 and can be identified by their parts numbers, which are located on the underside of the tow-bar on the driver’s side.

The affected parts numbers are:

• PK210NOCMPS16
• PK210NMBCMPS16
• PK210MBCMPS16  
• PK210OCMPS16
• PK211MBCMPS16
• PK211OCMPS16

The ACCC said consumers should immediately stop using the tow-bar and contact the store where they first purchased and/or had the tow-bar fitted to arrange for it to be removed from their vehicle and for a full refund.

RACQ Principal Technical Researcher John Ewing said the Pajero Sport was a popular model for towing and many RACQ members used their vehicles for that purpose.

“Like any safety recall this recall action shouldn’t be ignored,” Mr Ewing said.

“It’s vital that owners of affected vehicles equipped with these faulty tow-bars act immediately in accordance with the recall advice.

"Continued use of the tow-bar could pose a major safety risk to you and other road users.

“If you think your vehicle may be equipped with one of these towbars but aren’t sure, then play it safe and seek advice from the supplier. Be safe rather than sorry.”

For further information consumers should contact Opposite Lock Customer Service by phone on 1300 168 616 (Monday-Friday 8am-5pm), by email at oppositelock-warranty@anaustralia.com.au or via the website.