Takata Airbags: MOT Cancellation and Vehicle Immobilization Starting Tomorrow

Starting tomorrow, thousands of vehicles in Cyprus will be immobilized due to non-compliance with the mandatory recall of defective Takata airbags. The Ministry of Transport did not extend the deadline of October 3, 2025, leading to the cancellation of the Certificate of Roadworthiness (MOT) for non-compliant vehicles.

The decision was made after consultations between the Minister of Transport, Alexis Vafeadis, and the Department of Road Transport (TOM). The only exception concerns vehicles with scheduled appointments until the end of October 2025, with official confirmation from the dealer.

According to data, out of the 81,060 vehicles initially identified, the recall has been completed on 76%. 19,671 vehicles remain outstanding, of which only 2,853 have appointments.

The Order of the Minister of Transport aims to prevent accidents caused by defective Takata airbags, which have been blamed for explosions. In Cyprus, there have been two fatalities and one serious injury attributed to these defects.

The Ministry of Transport urges citizens to check the TOM website via the chassis number (VIN) for updates.