Risk of Faulty Airbags – Global Recall

Published 29th May 2024, 9:06 am

DVDL Issues Urgent Recall Notice on Faulty Takata Airbags

George Town, Grand Cayman – May 29^th, 2024  The Department of Vehicles’ and Drivers’ Licensing (DVDL) has announced an urgent global recall of Takata airbag inflators, affecting millions of vehicles worldwide. This critical safety recall includes popular brands such as Honda, Toyota, Ford, Fiat Chrysler, BMW, and Volkswagen, among others. The faulty airbags have been found to explode upon deployment, causing severe injuries or fatalities.

Immediate Action Required by Car Dealerships

DVDL is calling on all car dealerships across Grand Cayman to take immediate action to address this significant safety concern. Dealerships are required to:

1. Identify Affected Vehicles: Utilize provided lists and databases to identify vehicles in their inventory or customer base that are equipped with the defective Takata airbag inflators.
2. Contact Customers: Notify owners of the affected vehicles about the recall, providing clear instructions on the inspection and replacement process.
3. Repair and Document: Ensure prompt and accurate repairs according to manufacturer specifications, and maintain detailed records of all inspections and replacements.

DVDL’s Support and Policy Enhancements

To facilitate this process, DVDL has implemented the following measures:

• Continuous Communication: DVDL will provide ongoing updates and support to individual dealerships.
• Licensing Policy: Vehicles identified as potentially hazardous due to defective airbags will not be licensed until proof of issue resolution is provided by the dealerships.
• Inspection Modernization: DVDL is updating its roadworthiness inspection procedures to write off vehicles with compromised safety components, ensuring they do not pose a risk on the roads.

Customer Guidance

Vehicle owners are urged to take the following steps:

1. Check Your Vehicle: Contact your dealership immediately to determine if your vehicle is affected by the recall.
2. Schedule a Repair: Arrange for the replacement of the faulty airbag inflator as soon as possible to ensure your safety.

This recall impacts approximately 100 million Takata inflators globally. The swift and thorough cooperation of dealerships and vehicle owners is crucial to eliminating the threat posed by these defective airbags and ensuring the safety of our community.

For More Information

Please contact DVDL or visit our website for further details and updates on the recall process.

Name: Mr. Roy Bush, Supervisor of Vehicle Inspections & Driving Examinations

Email:              Roy.Bush@gov.ky

Phone:             345.925.7430

Website:         https://www.dvdl.gov.ky/

About the Department of Vehicles and Drivers’ Licensing

Under the Traffic Act, the Department of Vehicles and Licensing in the Cayman Islands was established to assume a comprehensive range of responsibilities. These include inspecting and testing vehicles, registering motor vehicles, maintaining the register, issuing licenses for both vehicles and drivers, conducting driving tests and fulfilling any other functions assigned periodically. 

About the Ministry of Planning, Agriculture, Housing, Infrastructure, Transport & Development (PAHITD):  Under the guidance of Hon. Minister Johany ‘’Jay’’ Ebanks, The Ministry of PAHIT&D is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life and economic prosperity of the Cayman Islands through comprehensive planning, sustainable agriculture, efficient housing solutions, and critical infrastructure development. Our mission is to create a resilient and thriving future for all residents and visitors.