WILLEMSTAD – The Ministry of Traffic, Transport and Urban Planning (VVRP) is urging all vehicle owners in Curaçao to check whether their cars are equipped with potentially dangerous Takata airbags, warning that defective airbags can cause serious injuries or even death during an accident.
In a public safety announcement issued on October 30, 2026, the ministry emphasized that millions of vehicles worldwide have been recalled because of serious safety defects involving Takata airbag inflators.
The warning is particularly relevant for Curaçao because the island's hot and humid climate can increase the risk associated with certain defective airbags.
According to VVRP, some Takata airbag inflators can deteriorate over time following prolonged exposure to heat and humidity.
When a defective airbag deploys during a collision, its inflator can rupture, sending sharp metal fragments into the vehicle's passenger compartment at high speed.
These fragments can cause severe injuries or fatal consequences for drivers and passengers.
The ministry stressed that a vehicle may appear to function normally while still containing a potentially dangerous airbag.
How Vehicle Owners Can Check Their Airbags
VVRP advises motorists to contact their vehicle's authorized dealer or manufacturer to determine whether their car is affected by a Takata airbag recall.
Vehicle owners should have their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), also known as the chassis number, available when requesting information.
The VIN allows manufacturers and authorized dealers to identify vehicles that may be subject to safety recalls.
Motorists can also consult the United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for additional information about Takata recalls.
The official information page is available at:
https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/takata-recall-spotlight
The ministry emphasized that certain affected vehicles are subject to an official "Do Not Drive" warning.
This means the vehicle should not be driven until the necessary repairs have been completed.
For vehicles covered by an official recall, replacement of the defective airbag is generally provided free of charge. However, owners in Curaçao should confirm the applicable arrangements with their dealer or vehicle manufacturer.
Dealers and Garages Urged to Inform Customers
The ministry is also calling on vehicle dealers, importers and automotive repair shops throughout Curaçao to actively inform customers about the potential dangers.
Businesses operating in the automotive sector are encouraged to assist vehicle owners in checking whether their cars are affected and to provide guidance on obtaining the necessary repairs.
VVRP stressed that road safety is a shared responsibility and that preventive action can save lives.
The government is urging motorists not to wait until a problem occurs before checking their vehicles.
Even cars that have been operating without any apparent mechanical problems may contain airbags that pose a serious safety risk.
The ministry concluded its warning with a direct message to motorists:
"Check your airbag. Protect your life!"