Always pay prompt attention to recall notices
Make sure to get on a waiting list so your dealer can fix what’s wrong as soon as possible
You’ve just been issued a recall notice or found out that your vehicle had just been recalled online — what should you do now?
Numerous products are recalled every year, ranging from children’s toys, household appliances, to food products. Recalls on vehicle models, car seats and tires are all ones that can affect vehicle owners, and while it’s best to take care of the issue immediately, not everyone knows what to do when they receive that recall letter in the mail.
Recalls are issued when a manufacturer identifies a specific problem in a vehicle model or vehicle part. Some of the problems that may prompt a recall include minor issues, things like improper parts labelling, to more serious safety issues like unexpected airbag deployment.
Over the years, automakers have also been taking fewer and fewer chances and are working to handle recalls efficiently for the sake of everyone on the road. As a driver, it’s important to update your contact information with your local dealership to make sure you can be easily reached in case of a recall.
Once a defect has been identified, manufacturers are required to alert owners via mail and offer free repairs for the defective part. The letter will also provide detailed instructions on the next steps and where to bring your vehicle — often, that would be to your vehicle brand’s nearest new car dealer.
Although most recalls aren’t for imminent dangers (you would be notified to stop driving immediately in such a case), it is recommended to avoid the risk and have the repair done as soon as possible. As every driver given notice would be bringing in his or her vehicles to the dealer, it’s also a good idea to bring it in early to get a jump-start on a possible waiting list. Remember to bring the recall letter with you to the dealer.
It’s also important to assess the recall. Is the recall for a key operating component or for something minor? If key operating components like acceleration, braking, steering or fuel systems are affected, do not ignore the notice and bring your vehicle to the dealership as soon as you can. A recall occurring currently for some vehicle manufacturers is airbags.
One thing to keep in mind is that if you’re driving a used car, only the first owner would be notified of the recall. Transport Canada’s website contains up-to-date information on recalls, so remember to check those databases before purchasing a used vehicle. Transport Canada’s Motor Vehicle Safety Recall Database is simple and easy to use.
Receiving a recall notice in the mail can certainly be stressful and concerning for drivers, but it’s important to remember that most manufacturers err on the side of caution, and that a recall doesn’t mean that the part will immediately fail. Take care of the issue in a timely manner and your vehicle will be back on the road in no time.
If you’re not sure how to access the recall or need expert advice or details on next steps, call your nearest new car dealer for more information.
And remember that the 98th Vancouver International Auto Show returns to the Convention Centre West from March 28 to April 1. For more information and to purchase tickets visit www.vancouverInternationalautoshow.com.