Car manufacturers will discuss replacing defective Takata airbags free of charge in Cyprus, despite European regulations absolving them of responsibility for vehicles imported by third parties.
The development marks a positive turn in the Takata airbag recall saga, with manufacturers seemingly prioritising their reputation and customer service over potential costs, according to the Department of Road Transport.
Some manufacturers face more than 10,000 recalls, presenting a significant logistical challenge within the timeframe set by transport authorities. However, officials remain optimistic about meeting the target.
The recall affects approximately 80,000 vehicles, with some brands reporting manageable pending cases that can be addressed within the eight-month deadline.
The Department of Road Transport has initiated discussions with all distributors and expects to receive confirmation next week regarding manufacturers’ capabilities, their approach, and the timeline required for completing all airbag replacements.
The success of this initiative hinges entirely on manufacturer cooperation, as distributors are obligated to follow manufacturer policies. Transport officials express cautious optimism that manufacturers will set aside legal reservations about assuming responsibility for matters beyond their obligations.
However, concerns persist that major firms might adopt a more cautious approach, potentially slowing down the delivery of replacement parts or avoiding involvement in issues where they bear no legal responsibility. Manufacturers are expected to communicate their final position to their Cyprus distributors next week.
Meanwhile, the House Commerce Committee will scrutinise distributor charges for handling airbag recalls next Tuesday. The committee will examine market disruptions caused by product recalls, competition distortion, and environmental and safety standards compliance, with particular focus on the Consumer Protection Service’s role in recall procedures.
The committee’s intervention follows decisions by some distributors to impose administrative fees of €120-€150 on vehicles not purchased through official dealerships, citing additional costs associated with non-European specification vehicles.
The Department of Road Transport launched an urgent recall campaign affecting approximately 82,000 vehicles with faulty Takata airbags and brakes, giving owners eight months to complete necessary repairs or face vehicle registration suspension.
The Takata airbag defect, caused by a chemical component that can deteriorate in hot conditions, risks explosive deployment that could project metal fragments into vehicle cabins, potentially causing serious injury to occupants.
The Takata recall is one of the largest automotive safety recalls in history, affecting multiple vehicle manufacturers globally. It is estimated that at least 27 deaths and hundreds of injuries worldwide have been attributed to the defective Takata airbags.
In Cyprus, at least three deaths have been linked to the faulty Takata airbags. (in cyprus)
