Approximately 1,600 appointments have been scheduled by 31 October for corrective measures related to Takata airbag recalls, according to Giorgos Louka, Director General of the Road Transport Department.
The department suspended MOT certificates for vehicles with pending airbag replacement recalls from 3 October, based on the eight-month deadline established under Circular 8/2025 issued in February 2025. Vehicles with appointments scheduled by 31 October received temporary suspension extensions.
As of 30 September, approximately 16,900 vehicles remained with outstanding recall cases, representing roughly 20 per cent of the original 81,000 affected vehicles. This increase in appointments suggests a notable response from vehicle owners, particularly as Toyota alone arranged an additional 1,300 appointments in recent days.
Takata airbag: Focus on Affected Vehicles
Toyota and Honda owners account for 7,000 of the outstanding recall cases. Specifically, Toyota vehicles represent around 5,000 owners who have yet to respond to recall notifications, while Honda owners account for approximately 2,000 vehicles.
“While Toyota had scheduled around 300 appointments, mobilisation over the past one to two days made it possible to arrange another 1,300 appointments before the deadline expires,” Louka told the Cyprus News Agency. This surge in appointments has prompted the Director General to urge vehicle owners who have not yet acted to do so without delay.
Importance of Timely Action
“Recalls are part of everyday life; we as consumers must take care,” Louka stated, emphasising the safety implications of the Takata airbag issue. He called for the public to proceed with corrective measures, recognising the inconvenience yet highlighting the importance of prioritising safety.
The Road Transport Department has been inundated with calls regarding recall deadlines, prompting Louka to advise vehicle owners to verify the expiration of their eight-month deadline through the department’s website. He stressed the necessity of contacting dealers and manufacturers for all types of recalls, as companies are obligated to keep consumers informed.
MOT Retesting and Enforcement Policies
For vehicles whose MOT certificates are suspended due to non-compliance, retesting will be mandated following the completion of the airbag replacement. This requirement adds an additional administrative burden for those who fail to act in a timely manner.
In terms of enforcement, the police have clarified that they will issue traffic fines for cases involving suspended MOT certificates when immediate immobilisation is not applicable. Officers will also encourage drivers to arrange for repairs, facilitating MOT certificate renewals.
The police reiterated their commitment to enforcing driving prohibition measures, directing drivers to use tow trucks when vehicles face immediate immobilisation orders or exhibit serious mechanical issues.