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TOM: Nearly 8,500 Vehicles Awaiting Defective Airbag Replacement

Published February 19, 2026, 12:18
TOM: Nearly 8,500 Vehicles Awaiting Defective Airbag Replacement

The Department of Road Transport (TOM) announced that 8,487 vehicles with defective airbags recalled in 2025 remain unaddressed, with replacements not yet completed. Simultaneously, 398,000 driving licenses have been renewed for 2026, compared to 412,000 last year, with a renewal deadline of March 11, 2026. A total of 81,060 vehicles with defective airbags were identified in February 2025, with 5,271 owners failing to proceed with the replacement, resulting in the suspension of their vehicle certification. Additionally, 19,929 vehicles were identified with the same issue from March to December 2025, with 3,216 still pending replacement. Some of these vehicles have already been immobilized. The TOM urges companies to expedite the supply of parts and customer service, while reminding owners to immediately replace the defective airbags. The recommendation not to use recalled vehicles until the component is replaced is reiterated. The recall is considered critical for road safety, as it prevents serious risks and protects the lives of drivers, passengers, and other road users. The TOM is committed to safeguarding road safety and completing the recalls.