Starting October 3, 2025, vehicles in Cyprus with unresolved defective airbags will lose their roadworthiness certificate (MOT).
The measure applies to all cars that have not completed the mandatory recall within the eight-month period set by the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Works.
The ministry has launched a large-scale public awareness campaign in September 2025 to inform and protect motorists. The campaign is running across television, radio, billboards, newspapers, and digital platforms to ensure that all vehicle owners—particularly those affected by the recall—receive timely and accurate information.
According to the ministry, airbags included in the recall may pose a fatal risk to passengers under certain conditions. That is why completing the recall is considered a critical safety measure, not just a formality.
From October 3, 2025, any car with an unresolved airbag recall will automatically lose its MOT certificate. Vehicles without a valid roadworthiness certificate cannot be legally driven on Cypriot roads. Owners risk fines, insurance complications, and in some cases even immobilization of their vehicles.
Authorities urge all drivers to immediately visit the official government portal at www.gov.cy/mtcw to check whether their vehicle is affected. If it is, they should book an appointment at an authorized service center to replace the faulty airbag module. The recall procedure is free of charge and ensures that the vehicle remains safe and legally compliant.
Faulty airbags have been a worldwide issue, with millions of cars recalled globally over the past decade. Several EU member states have also introduced strict rules preventing vehicles with unresolved recalls from being driven on public roads.
Cyprus’ decision aligns with European safety standards and aims to protect lives. According to European Commission data, around 20,000 people were killed in road accidents across the EU in 2023, with Cyprus still recording a higher-than-average fatality rate. By enforcing mandatory airbag recalls, Cypriot authorities hope to reduce risks and improve road safety nationwide.
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