Your Car Has a Recall. Now What?
Received a notice that your vehicle has a recall? Some people may ignore them and some people may feel a little anxiety. You may wonder, "Is my car safe to drive?" and "What do I do next?" If you receive a notice, you should take action -- the process of addressing a recall is often straightforward and, most importantly, free. Here’s a quick guide to help you navigate the process with confidence and get back on the road safely.
What is a Vehicle Recall?
A recall is issued when a manufacturer or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) determines that a vehicle has a safety-related defect or doesn't meet a federal safety standard. These defects can range from minor issues to more serious ones that pose a risk of accident or injury. The good news is, manufacturers are legally obligated to fix these problems at no cost to you, regardless of whether you're the original owner.
Joe Hess, service manager at Stuckey Nissan -- “From safety issues to fixes for features you use every day, recalls are extremely important to the long-term health of your vehicle and your safety on the road."
Step 1: Check for Recalls
Even if you haven't received a letter in the mail, it's a good practice to check for recalls periodically. You can do this easily and for free.
Use your VIN: The most accurate way to check is with your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This unique 17-character number can be found on your dashboard (visible through the windshield) or on the sticker inside your driver's side door jamb.
Visit the NHTSA website: Go to the official NHTSA recalls website and enter your VIN. It will show you if there are any open recalls on your specific vehicle. You can also sign up for email or app alerts from the NHTSA to be notified of any new recalls for your make and model.
Keep an eye on the news, too. You may see a press release or article about vehicle recalls.
Step 2: Understand the Recall
Once you've confirmed your vehicle has an open recall, it's time to get informed. The recall notice or the information on the NHTSA website will provide a description of the defect, the potential risks it poses, and the manufacturer's plan for a remedy.
Step 3: Get it Fixed (for Free!)
This is the most crucial step.
Contact us: Schedule a service appointment with us or the authorized dealership for your vehicle's brand.
Bring your notice: If you received a recall letter, bring it with you to your appointment. While not always required, it can help streamline the process.
No-cost repair: The dealership will fix the recalled part or issue at no charge to you. This includes parts and labor. If you've already paid for a repair related to the recall before the notice was issued, you may be eligible for reimbursement from the manufacturer.
Recalls are an important part of the vehicle safety system, designed to protect everyone on the road. According to Chuck Smith, service manager at Stuckey Ford of Bellefonte -- “Ignoring a vehicle recall is like ignoring a warning light on your dashboard—it's not just about your car, it's about your safety and everyone else on the road.”
We’re here for every mile.