Categories: FAQSafetyService

What Should You Do If Your Car Is Recalled?

One dark coloured Honda car is running on the road.

Every carmaker ensures their cars are perfect, and manufacturers go the extra mile to make their vehicles reliable and durable. However, ever so often, a minor flaw, usually one that compromises passenger safety, forces manufacturers to recall an entire batch or several model years of a particular model or various models all at once. So, what should you do if your car is among the unfortunate ones the manufacturer recalls? Read this blog from Capital Honda in Charlottetown, PE, to find out.

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What is a car recall?

Car recalls are not uncommon. They happen every year and affect all manufacturers, including the big names. Recalls can happen even after several years of your car’s ownership. But when a company issues a recall, it shows its concern for its customers.

Most recalls are caused by faults in the vehicle’s safety features that do not meet vehicle safety standards, such as brakes and airbags, contributing to any untoward mishaps that put the driver and passenger’s life at risk. At the same time, some recalls are made to address manufacturing defects such as faulty equipment, hoods, seats, tires, etc. Recalls are usually issued to VINs, trim levels, model years, or cars sold in certain regions.

If the problem is minor and can be corrected with a repair, the manufacturer will repair the faulty equipment, but in rare cases, if the issue is very severe, the manufacturer may provide a replacement.

When a manufacturer notices any concern, they must notify the vehicle owners and dealers, explain the problem in detail, and fix it ASAP. In most cases, the manufacturer or dealer sends an email and a letter to you within 60 days of issuing the recall.

Also Read: How Safe are Honda vehicles? Watch These Survivor Accounts

How do I know about recalls?

When you buy a new car from a dealership, it is automatically registered with the manufacturer, and you’re notified in case of any future recall. However, if you buy a used car, make sure you register your car with the manufacturer to get information about recalls. You’ll be notified via an email, text message, call, or letter from the manufacturer or dealer.

In case you suspect your car is recalled but you haven’t received any notification, you can check for the recall information at the manufacturer’s website or contact your local dealer, or you can also check Transport Canada’s Motor Vehicle Safety Recalls Database.

What should I do if my car is recalled?

If you’ve received a notification about your vehicle being recalled, read it carefully and enquire from the manufacturer or dealer about the issue and find out what to do next. Usually, the manufacturer will direct you to your local dealer and set up an appointment for a repair and, in some cases, a replacement.

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Do I have to pay for the repairs?

No. If your car is part of a manufacturer’s safety recall, all parts should be repaired or replaced free of charge by the manufacturer. Some manufacturers even offer free taxi fare, rental cars, or provide free at-home pickup and delivery.

Should I be worried about my car being recalled?

Do not worry if your car is recalled due to any safety issues or manufacturing defects. Most car manufacturers do not take it lightly because even a tiny recall on a minor car part can have an impact on your and your family’s safety. Act quickly and follow the instructions in your recall letter, or even better, get in touch with your local dealership.

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We hope this blog helps you in case of any recall. For all your Honda-related services and parts in Charlottetown, PE, check out Capital Honda or contact us today!