Newsroom
Car safety in Cyprus is under the spotlight as gaps in the vehicle recall system are leaving drivers unknowingly at risk, according to a report by Kathimerini's Dorita Yiannakou. Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades revealed that while some car importers and distributors are stepping up to notify owners of potentially faulty vehicles, others are dragging their feet, creating a breakdown in the flow of crucial information.
The Current System: A Partial Fix
The Department of Road Transport (TOM) currently addresses recalls by flagging vehicles during their technical inspection (MOT). If a car has an unresolved recall, it might not pass the inspection. While this measure works to some extent, Vafeades admits it’s not enough. Vehicles could go unchecked for years if their owners miss the recall notice or are unaware of the defect.
For example, faulty components such as airbags, brakes, or even critical software issues often go unnoticed, putting drivers and passengers in danger. Vafeades stressed that manufacturers are ultimately responsible for identifying defects and covering repairs, but delays in the process—sometimes up to eight months—can leave drivers in limbo.
The Chain of Responsibility
Manufacturers rely on local distributors to notify car owners when issues arise. By law, these distributors must inform customers via SMS, letters, or other means. However, the delays in communication leave drivers unknowingly operating vehicles that might be unsafe. Vafeades highlighted the need to streamline this system and close information gaps.
Cyprus is exploring practices used in other European countries, such as Germany, where recalls are similarly tied to technical inspections. However, critics argue this approach alone is insufficient and doesn’t fully address the risks during the lengthy notification process.
The Takata Airbag Scandal
One of the most pressing concerns involves Takata airbags, a global issue that has affected millions of vehicles. AKEL MP Andreas Pasiourtidis criticized TOM for its handling of the matter, noting that only 40% of dealerships have cooperated in providing recall data. Pasiourtidis also alleged that some companies received funds to replace faulty airbags but misused the money, with some even charging drivers €160 just to confirm whether their car was affected.
Calls for Accountability
DISY MP Kyriakos Hatzigiannis has called out TOM and the Consumer Protection Service for failing to take decisive action. He argues that TOM has all the necessary data, including vehicle chassis numbers, and should directly inform affected car owners rather than relying solely on distributors. Hatzigiannis emphasized that technical difficulties shouldn’t be used as an excuse to let safety issues persist.
What Drivers Can Do
Until the system improves, Vafeades urged drivers to take matters into their own hands by regularly checking their cars for recalls and addressing any issues promptly. He also reminded the public that recalls can involve anything from critical safety components like brakes and airbags to minor fixes such as air conditioning systems.
The Bigger Picture
With safety gaps still looming, the government is under pressure to establish a more reliable notification chain. As discussions continue and authorities study international practices, the ultimate goal is to ensure that no driver unknowingly operates a dangerous vehicle.
For now, Cypriot drivers are left with a warning: stay vigilant, check your car, and don’t wait for the system to catch up.
