Whether you’re driving a brand new Toyota sedan or are cruising in a pre-owned Hyundai SUV, you must occasionally check for recalls.
If you check for recalls and find that one has been issued for your Ford F-150 or Lincoln Aviator, you may not be sure what to do. Knowing that there could be a potential safety issue can certainly be concerning. Understanding how to check for recalls and what to do once you’ve found one can help you obtain more peace of mind.
Automotive Safety Recall Defined
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a safety recall is issued if either the manufacturer or the NHTSA finds that a vehicle or its equipment poses a safety risk or doesn’t meet safety standards set for that vehicle. Recalls can include everything from airbags, brakes, tires, and even car seats.
Manufacturers are required by law to file a report if a vehicle or its equipment is found to pose a significant safety risk. Their report includes the following information:
• Description of the issue
• Details of the equipment/vehicle and how many units are affected
• How the decision to issue a recall was made
• A detailed description of the remedy
• A schedule for the recall
The Hyundai Tucson: An Example
Early in 2021, Hyundai recalled around 471,000 SUVs from an issue found on 2016-2018 and 2020-2021 Tucson SUVs. The program revolves around an electrical short in a computer component that could lead to fires. Hyundai instructed impacted owners to park outside until the issue is repaired.
Owners were notified to take their Tucson SUVs to a dealer who can replace the necessary parts on the computer. The recall comes at no cost to the customers.
How To Check For Recalls
Technically, the NHTSA requires that auto manufactures notify registered vehicle owners about any recalls via first-class mail within 60 days. The letter should contain information on what the issue is, how to get it fixed, and the time frame for getting the repair. There should also be contact information for whom to contact if there are any issues scheduling or completing the repair.
Since it’s not uncommon for drivers to misidentify recall letters as junk mail, not every vehicle owner is going to get the message in this manner. Sadly, manufactures are unlikely to try and track down those who don’t respond right away. That means it’s your responsibility to keep an eye out for any safety recalls that might impact your vehicle.
Check Recalls Online
The NHTSA has a website (www.nhtsa.gov/recalls) where you can search for recalls for your specific vehicle. Keep in mind that recalls may only impact vehicles manufactured in certain plants between certain dates. That means there might be a recall on Toyota hybrids, but it may not impact your specific Toyota Prius.
When you go to the NHTSA’s website, it will ask for your vehicle’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This 17-character code is typically located on your insurance card and registration card. If you don’t have access to either of those documents, you can find your VIN on your physical car.
Typically, even Ford, Lincoln, Hyundai, and Toyota vehicles, along with other brands, but the VIN at the base of the driver’s side windshield as well as on the frame near the driver’s side door. Check your vehicle’s manual if you’re not sure where to find your VIN.
The VIN search tool will show any unrepaired vehicle impacted by a safety recall from the last 15 years. This tool works for cars, trucks, motorcycles, and more.
My Car’s Been Recalled. Now What?
If you find that your car has a safety recall, you’ll want to read the instructions provided by the NHTSA or manufacturer. Getting this problem fixed should be on the top of your priority list. Federal law requires that the manufacturer offer some kind of resolution, including the following:
• Repairs: this is the most common option. You’ll contact your local dealer and set up a free appointment.
• Replacement: If the problem is not repairable, the manufacturer can offer you an identical or comparable vehicle.
• Refund: The manufacturer can also choose to refund the purchase price of the vehicle after subtracting a reasonable amount for depreciation.
Don’t Wait. Act Now.
When you’re dealing with the safety of you and your family, there is no time to waste. While there may be times that a recall is merely a precaution and is unlikely to happen, you never want to be a statistic. Keep an eye on your mailbox and check for recalls every so often to ensure your vehicle is always in tip-top shape.
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