What to do in the event of a manufacturer recall

A manufacturer recall is a safety measure that vehicle manufacturers take to address defects or issues affecting vehicle safety or performance. Manufacturers initiate recalls when they identify a problem through internal testing, customer complaints, or regulatory investigations. The purpose of a recall is to protect drivers, prevent accidents, and minimise legal liability for the manufacturer.

What does a manufacturer recall involve?

A vehicle recall normally involves the following steps:

1. Identifying faults and defects: Manufacturers usually trigger recalls due to safety-related defects, such as issues with brakes, airbags, engines, fuel systems, or electronic components. These problems can pose significant risks to drivers, passengers, and other road users.
2. Repair or replacement: Once a defect is identified, the manufacturer takes responsibility for fixing the issue. This may include repairing or replacing faulty parts, or in extreme cases, replacing the entire vehicle.
3. No cost to vehicle owners: Manufacturers typically provide repairs or replacements free of charge, so vehicle owners won’t incur expenses for addressing the recall.

Who is responsible for vehicle recalls?

In the UK, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) oversees the vehicle recall process. The DVSA’s Vehicle Safety Branch (VSB) collaborates with manufacturers and trade associations to ensure the safety of recalled vehicles.

What to do if you receive a manufacturer recall notice

If your vehicle is affected by a recall, follow these steps to address the issue quickly and safely:

1. Confirm the Recall: The manufacturer will send a recall notice with full details about the issue. You can also verify whether your vehicle is involved in a recall by checking online on the DVSA website or the manufacturer’s official website using your vehicle’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
2. Contact the manufacturer or dealership: Reach out to the dealership or the manufacturer’s customer service team for further instructions. They will inform you about the necessary steps and help schedule a repair or inspection. Failing to address a recall can compromise safety and may affect your vehicle insurance coverage.
3. Arrange for repairs: Take your vehicle to an authorised dealership for repairs. These repairs are typically performed free of charge and will resolve the identified safety issues. Be sure to ask about the estimated repair time.
4. Avoid driving the vehicle if necessary: For recalls related to critical safety issues (e.g., faulty brakes or airbags), driving the vehicle may be unsafe until it is repaired. The manufacturer will advise whether the car can still be driven or if it should be parked until repairs are completed. You may be able to request a courtesy car through your car insurance policy if needed.
5. Keep documentation for future reference: Keep records of the recall repair, as it can increase your vehicle’s resale value. Documentation shows that the issue was addressed and resolved properly, making your car more appealing to future buyers.

How to stay informed about manufacturer recalls

In a typical year, manufacturers recall over one million vehicles, issuing more than 150 recalls. It’s important to stay informed about potential issues with your vehicle. You can conduct a Total Car Check to quickly determine whether your vehicle is subject to a safety recall.

Total Car Check: If you’re buying a used car, check its history. A free Total Car Check provides recall details, but we recommend purchasing our award-winning Gold Check. This confirms whether the vehicle is stolen, has outstanding finance, has been written off, has been in a salvage yard along with many other insights. A Gold Check also includes an extended mileage check, which checks millions of industry mileage records in addition to the MOT service, offering vital protection for used car buyers.

Conclusion

Addressing a manufacturer’s recall as soon as you receive notice is essential for ensuring your vehicle’s safety and avoiding potential risks on the road. By staying informed and promptly taking action, you can maintain your vehicle’s safe working condition and protect yourself from potential liability issues.

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