The Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (MCCAA), in collaboration with Transport Malta, has been following closely the Volkswagen Emissions case from the very beginning – to ensure that all affected consumers are provided with the possibility of having their vehicles upgraded to the standards specified in the contract of sale. Hence, the authority is also closely monitoring the actions taken towards consumers by Volkswagen Malta.

The authority is informed that to date all consumers of vehicles purchased directly from the local agent have received a letter from Volkswagen Malta requesting them to set up an appointment to have their vehicle upgraded as necessary. The number of new cars affected totals 483.

Transport Malta is also contacting owners of affected second hand vehicles purchased either locally or from abroad, requesting them to approach the local importer to have their vehicles upgraded and tested. Modifications are being carried out according to the instructions given by the Volkswagen Group.

Unfortunately, the majority of consumers have not yet made the requested appointment to upgrade their cars. The MCCAA appeals to these consumers to make the necessary arrangements so their vehicles are upgraded and tested as soon as possible.

These upgrades are validated to be in conformity with EU requirements by the German Type Approval Authority, which is an independent assessment body.

Even though to date the authority does not have any registered complaints regarding this matter, it is still following the case at European level.

The MCCAA has provided the European Commission with information on the local situation and will join any action taken at European level as may be deemed appropriate.