In 2014, 64 million vehicles were recalled. While one in five vehicles on United States roads requires a recall repair, one in four of those vehicles will not be repaired, which affects the safety of everyone on the road. Before you drive your car anywhere, understand car recalls and how they affect you and your vehicle.
What is a Recall?
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) mandates that automobile manufacturers meet federal safety standards. If a faulty, defective or compromised part is used on a vehicle, the NHTSA will issue a recall. It notifies auto owners that a repair is needed on their vehicle, and it provides the necessary part to local dealers. Affected vehicle owners pay no fees for the repair.
What Parts Could be Recalled?
The average vehicle has thousands of parts that can break or be compromised. However, a recall is only issued if a part is found to be faulty because it poses a safety risk. Normal wear and tear does not qualify a vehicle for a recall, so you will have to pay to repair your vehicle’s worn brakes or an old battery. However, other defects are safety issues. They can be minor or major and include:
- Ignition switches
- Airbags
- Steering components
- Fuel components
- Accelerators
- Windshield wipers
- Engine cooling fan blades
- Wiring systems
- Other faulty components
What Should you do if Your Car is Recalled?
Any defect in a vehicle affects driver and passenger safety. That’s why all defects should be addressed quickly. Follow the recall directions and schedule an appointment right away
If the recall affects a small number of vehicles, you may be able to get an appointment quickly. However, be prepared to wait a few weeks or months if the recall affects a large number of vehicles. Most repairs take a few hours, but if your specific vehicle repair takes a few days, as the dealer if they offer a loaner car.
How do you Find Recalls?
In most cases, you’ll receive a recall letter from the government or your vehicle’s manufacturer. You can also check recalls.gov for an updated list. Enter the manufacturer, model and year of your car.
What Should you do if you have a Problem?
All recall repairs are free. Contact the NHTSA at (888) DASH-2-DOT if you are charged or have problems with your repair.
Recalls protect you and other drivers as they make your vehicle safe. Be sure to participate in any vehicle recalls. Contact your insurance agent, too, to ensure you have adequate insurance for your vehicle as you protect your ride.
