What is a Recall?

Reports show there are around 45 million vehicles that were subject to a recall between 2013-2015 that have not yet been repaired. This means millions of Americans are driving vehicles that could pose a risk to their safety. In order to help alleviate this problem, we thought it may be useful to provide some basic information on what a recall actually is and why it’s important.

A recall is issued when the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or a manufacturer determines a vehicle fails to meet minimum safety standards. The safety risks can range from absolutely terrifying (i.e. exploding airbags, vehicles that get stuck in cruise control) to rather mundane/bizarre (i.e. a faulty latch that prevents someone from opening a trunk if locked inside).

Once it’s determined a vehicle fails to meet minimum safety requirements, the car company is required to send a vehicle recall notice to affected customers. The notice should contain a description of the vehicle recall, the risk created by the problem, how and when the problem will be fixed, and potential warning signs to be on the lookout for. Those customers who receive a recall notice can have their vehicle fixed by the manufacturer free of charge, regardless of whether their warranty has expired.

Of course, a car can change hands multiple times throughout its life-cycle, so manufacturers aren’t always able to get a physical recall notice to the correct person. Not to worry though, you can check to see if there’s a safety recall on your vehicle by clicking here. If there is, go get it fixed! If the problem cannot be fixed, contact us to discuss what options you have available.