Vehicle Recalls
Your vehicle’s manufacturer or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) can issue a recall on a car that has a safety-related defect or fails to meet federal safety standards. Defective airbags and seat belts, and leaking fuel systems are some of the many issues that could lead to recalls—recalls that can create serious safety concerns for you and your loved ones.
Has Your Vehicle Been Recalled?
Your car manufacturer has 60 days to send you a recall letter once a recall has been issued. The letter will identify:
- The details of the defect
- Safety concerns the defect may present
- Warning signs that your vehicle may have the defect
- What the car manufacturer is doing to resolve the issue
- Where to go to fix the issue, when you can take your car in and how long it will take
- Who to contact if there are problems getting the recall issue fixed
Your Car Has Been Recalled—Now What?
Once you have received your recall letter, contact your local authorized dealer to set up a service appointment.
Have your VIN ready when scheduling your appointment with the service department so they can identify the recall issue.
How Much Will It Cost?
In the event of a recall, any repairs, software updates, replacement vehicles and refunds should be covered by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
Contact your car’s manufacturer If you have already fixed an issue that later gets recalled—you may be able to receive a refund on the previous service costs.
Safety First
There may be instances when you don’t receive a recall letter. To check for a recall on your vehicle, retrieve your VIN and visit your car manufacturer’s website or the NHTSA website to see if a recall has been issued.
Always take action when your vehicle gets recalled, and resolve the issue as quickly as possible. The ramifications of ignoring a recall may be severe and can directly impact the safety of you and your loved ones.
Auto and driver risk management tips provided by Van Wyk Risk Solutions. Learn more about our personal insurance solutions.