Received a Recall Notice? Here’s What to Do Next

Your safety on the road is paramount. But what should you do if your vehicle is recalled? It’s essential to take every recall seriously! Stay informed and prepared with our comprehensive guide.

What Is a Vehicle Recall?

A vehicle recall occurs when the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) identifies that a vehicle fails to meet established safety standards. In such cases, manufacturers are obligated to submit a detailed report that includes information about the affected vehicle, the total number of vehicles involved, specifics about the defect, and the circumstances leading to the recall decision. Additionally, they must provide an explanation and a timeline for the recall process.

If your vehicle is affected, manufacturers are required to notify registered owners by first-class mail within 60 days. This notification will include instructions on how to address the issue, the expected timeline for repairs, and an estimate of how long the repairs will take.

Checking For a Recall

According to the NHTSA website, searching by license plate is one of the newest and best ways to check for a recall. While manufacturers must notify registered vehicle owners in 60 days, physical mail can be unreliable. If you have suspicions of a recall or have seen news concerning a potential recall on your car’s make and model, searching the NHTSA website for a recall through your car’s license plate or Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is the easiest and most efficient way to stay safe.

What To Do When Your Car Is Recalled?

Once you find out if the recall applies to your vehicle or parts, there are three options: repair, replace, or refund. By law, the manufacturer must choose one of the three options to correct the issue. If the manufacturer has chosen repair, your vehicle or part must be repaired by the manufacturer at no cost to the vehicle owner. Replacement means that if the problem can’t be fixed, the manufacturer must provide you with another similar or identical model. A refund option involves the manufacturer refunding the purchase price of your vehicle, minus depreciation. These options also apply to accessories such as car seats.

Your recall letter or warning should notify you if your car is too dangerous to drive. Regardless, the recall issue should be resolved immediately by taking your vehicle to a local authorized dealership matching the make of your car. Remember, the bigger the recall, the longer the waitlist for an appointment.

How to Book a Recall Repair Appointment at Lehigh Valley Acura

Recalls must be done at dealerships for recording purposes, quality monitoring, and making recalled parts available to manufacturers for inspection. While the NHTSA gives manufacturers a grace period for repairs to be made available after a recall, you should contact your local dealership to book an appointment as early as possible to beat the crowds. Establishing a friendly relationship with your local registered dealership can pay off during a difficult recall period!

Has your vehicle been recalled? Acura and Honda have both recently reported recall repair claims. Search for your recall and then call Lehigh Valley Acura immediately to book your recall repair appointment and ensure your vehicle functions to its intended safety guidelines and performs its best. Our team is happy to help, from minor service to full recall assistance!