Starting Thursday, June 5, 2025, new regulations came into force in Cyprus regarding the registration and transfer of ownership of vehicles under official recall due to safety-related issues.
The primary focus is on vehicles affected by defective Takata airbags — a global issue that has impacted millions of cars worldwide.
Under the new rules, if a vehicle from categories M (passenger cars), N (commercial vehicles and vans), or O (trailers) is being registered for the first time or transferred to a new owner while under a safety recall, both the seller and the buyer must submit a declaration.
This declaration — Form TOM372 — confirms that the necessary safety repairs have not yet been completed at the time of the transaction. In other words, both parties must be fully informed of the potential safety risks and provide written consent to proceed with the transfer despite the outstanding defect.
Form TOM372 must be completed and submitted along with the standard paperwork required for vehicle registration or ownership change. The new rule applies to both private sales and imported vehicles from abroad.
This regulatory change comes in response to increasing pressure from the European Union.
Takata airbags, known for their risk of explosive deployment, have already caused numerous accidents and lawsuits globally. In response, Europe is adopting a more systemic approach to monitor and manage recalled vehicles throughout their lifecycle — including during sales and re-registration.
Experts believe that the new regulations aim to improve transaction transparency and protect buyers, many of whom are unaware of serious technical issues in the vehicles they purchase. Additionally, the rules encourage timely repair of recalled vehicles, contributing to overall road safety.
A full list of vehicles affected by recalls, as well as the TOM372 form, can be found on the official website of the Cyprus Ministry of Transport, Communications and Works.
If you're buying or selling a vehicle in Cyprus, it’s crucial to check the vehicle’s recall status in advance and ensure all required documents are in order. These new rules are not just a formality — they represent a step toward greater accountability and safety on Cypriot roads.
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