People buying used cars later this week might find they're restricted for choice.

The Motor Industry Association says from Friday, the potentially dangerous Takata airbags involved in a vehicle recall will become prohibited products.

This means cars with the airbags won't be able to be imported.

This includes models made by Nissan, Toyota, Subaru, and more.

The Association's chief executive David Crawford says importers have been aware of this for a while, and some buyers too.

"It will have implications for those vehicles that are in New Zealand because if they're traded in dealers won't be able to onsell them on until the airbag is replaced," he said.