The recall process for over 80,000 vehicles equipped with TAKATA airbags, among others, is progressing with difficulties. The Department of Road Transport (TOM) and dealerships are rushing to keep up with both citizen enquiries and the timelines set by the Ministry of Transport through two issued decrees.
SigmaLive has gathered the most important questions and requested answers from the TOM to assist the public in better understanding the process.
1. What to do if you received an sms from the TOM?
You should contact the dealership to provide your details and be placed on a waiting list. The dealership will then contact you to schedule an appointment for the airbag replacement.
2. What to do if you did not receive an sms from the TOM?
You should contact the dealership and also update the details you have registered with the DRT.
3. Why did you receive a message for a vehicle that does not belong to you?
It is possible that incorrect details were recorded by a vehicle owner during a vehicle transfer. You can email [email protected] to report the issue.
4. How can you update your details with the TOM?
You can update your details by visiting the TOM website and filling in your information here.
5. Can your vehicle pass an MOT test if it is subject to a recall?
If the eight-month period allowed for airbag replacement has not expired, your vehicle will still be able to pass its MOT.
6. What to do if your vehicle is on the manufacturer’s recall lists but not on the lists provided by the TOM, or vice versa?
The TOM lists were compiled using data from various sources. As a result, the most reliable source is now considered to be the TOM website.
7. Is there enough airbag stock to complete the replacements within eight months?
According to information received by SigmaLive, there is enough stock, but not for mass orders—only for monthly supplies. Although the eight-month timeline is considered strict or even ambitious, dealerships are expected to manage the workload.
8. Is it legal for some companies to charge citizens before carrying out the replacements?
According to research conducted by the Consumer Protection Service of the Ministry of Commerce, it is legal for companies to charge fees. It is noted that certain companies request payment for vehicles from third countries (e.g. Singapore and Japan) but not for those from the UK or Cyprus.
9. What applies if you recently replaced your airbag but still find your vehicle on the TOM lists?
The lists may not have been updated, and if the replacement was done in the past few weeks, it may not have been recorded yet. Therefore, citizens should not worry if their vehicles are still listed, provided they have already replaced the airbag. The TOM will liaise with dealerships before updating the lists.
10. What should owners of immobilised vehicles do?
Those who had registered details were informed by phone by the Ministry of Transport. The remaining owners will receive letters and have also been notified by their dealerships. However, they should still contact their dealership themselves.
Note: Send your queries to [email protected] or via Facebook: Sigmalive, Sigmalive – English / Instagram: Sigmalivecom, sigmalive.en.
Also read: Takata decrees: 276 vehicles immobilised, up to 200,000 affected
