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Italy Sets Recall List for Feb. 17 as Scrapping of Seized ‘Ghost’ Cars Begins Feb. 20

Officials cite environmental gains from removing abandoned vehicles.

Overview

  • Law No. 14/2026 takes effect on Feb. 20, allowing cancellation from the public registers and physical scrapping of vehicles locked under administrative seizure.
  • Municipalities gain the ability to request removal and demolition of long‑abandoned cars that pose traffic or environmental risks.
  • Owners who scrap will stop paying the vehicle tax and, previously, insurance, but they remain liable for existing debts and lose access to purchase incentives.
  • An official recall database becomes operational by Feb. 17, listing vehicles not brought in for mandatory fixes within 24 months and viewable via the Portale dell’automobilista or a mobile app.
  • Sanctions include fines up to €60,000 per unimplemented corrective measure for manufacturers and €173 for owners driving vehicles on the list, with checks available to citizens and police.