The Dutch vehicle authority RDW is considering whether to block approval during mandatory periodic vehicle inspections, known as the APK, for cars that have unresolved safety recalls.
Around one in three vehicle owners currently fail to respond when a manufacturer issues a recall notice, prompting officials to explore stricter enforcement.
The proposal would make open safety recalls a standard reason to fail the annual check. However, drivers’ advocates warn that the current administrative system is not accurate enough to handle the change fairly.
Concerns over faulty records
The Dutch motoring club KNAC has spoken out against the plan, pointing out that database records frequently lag behind reality. Official registers often list recalls as outstanding even after a dealership has completed the necessary repairs.
In some cases, bureaucratic delays keep fixed vehicles marked as non-compliant for years. If the new rule takes effect, car owners could fail their mandatory safety test or struggle to sell their vehicle through no fault of their own.
Parts shortages and garage delays
Auto repair shops and dealerships are also struggling with a shortage of spare parts and skilled staff. These supply chain issues often make it difficult for drivers to get recall work scheduled quickly, even when they contact a service center immediately.
Motoring organizations argue that the underlying registration systems must be fully accurate and reliable before any penalties are imposed on individual car owners.
Representatives from the automotive industry and government departments have been asked to re-examine the proposal at an upcoming advisory meeting.
