Your Car Was Recalled. Now What?

Author: Paul Michael / Source: Wise Bread

If you feel like you hear about car recalls constantly, you’re right. In 2016, there were almost 53 million recalls, according to Roadshow by CNET. And although we’re only just into 2018, Cars.com reports some 50 million Takata air bag inflaters are currently under recall.

With car parts constantly being tested and updated, you’re bound to get a recall letter yourself at some point. But what should you do when you are on the recall list? (See also: Bookmark This: Save Money With an Easy to Follow Car Maintenance Checklist)

First, there’s no need to panic

You’re driving along in your car, maybe getting groceries or picking the kids up from school, when you hear the news on the radio — XYZ automaker is recalling four million cars. You have that car, and it’s only natural that it scares you a little. After all, your car is not only your primary means of transportation, but if something is wrong with it, could your life be in danger? Fortunately, probably not.

Most recalls are minor, and have very little impact on the way the vehicle operates. If it’s a voluntary recall from the manufacturer, it’s likely not a big issue. If the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) gets involved, it could be more serious. And although a recall is only issued when it is a safety hazard, those risks can be very small.

Find out exactly what kind of recall has been issued

As soon as you get the chance, call your local dealership or check the internet and find out what kind of recall has been put in place. It could be something as simple as a software update. Maybe one particular part has broken on some models, and the manufacturer is replacing them all as a precaution (most err on the side of extreme caution rather than risk a lawsuit).

You should have also received a letter or email from the manufacturer, and you can verify your issue by typing in your VIN (it’s on the driver’s side dashboard) to a site like NHTSA.gov, Safecar.gov, or Cars.com.

Read what’s detailed in the recall notice

The chances are that you’ll be notified about the recall in several ways, including local and national news reports, a call from the dealership, email, and a physical letter….

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