How Do I Know If My Vehicle Was Recalled?

Vehicles with safety defects are recalled by manufacturers each year. In fact, more than 53 million vehicles were recalled in the US during 2016. While your vehicle’s manufacturer is required to notify you when there is a recall, there are reasons why you may not receive the notification. Fortunately, you can find information regarding your vehicle’s recall status.

First, you will need to grab your 17-digit vehicle identification number (also called the VIN) from your insurance card or your driver’s side dashboard. The VIN can also be found on your vehicle’s registration paperwork. Type this number into NHTSA’s website to determine whether your vehicle has an unfixed safety recall. NHTSA’s website may not display very recently announced recalls.

What Can I Do If My Vehicle is Recalled?

You should never wait to fix a recalled vehicle. Some defects, such as Takata airbags, could cause catastrophic injuries or death. Furthermore, you will not have to pay repair costs to fix a recalled vehicle. Automakers are required by law to fix recalled vehicles for free. If you have a Ford Ranger, then you would need to seek repairs at your local Ford dealership.

Contact the dealership to determine if they have the necessary parts to conduct repairs. You will likely be asked to set up an appointment. Depending on the circumstances, you may have to wait before vehicle can be fixed. You could see if the dealership will provide you with a loaner car until the repairs are completed.

Some defects make vehicles too dangerous to drive to dealerships. NHTSA has warned owners of certain Ford, Acura and Honda vehicles that the Takata airbags in their vehicles have an increased risk of rupturing. In some cases, you may need to tow your vehicle to the dealership for repairs.

What About Recalls for Other Auto Products?

You can also pull recall information on tires and child car seats from a different area of NHTSA’s website. Once you are on the website, check the manufacturer name and model of the product to determine its recall status. You can also view complaints other consumers have made about the product. Manufacturers have varying methods for remedying recalled products. Call the manufacturer to determine which steps you should take. You can also register your email with NHTSA to receive recall notices for these products.

What Can I Do If I Am Injured by An Auto Defect?

You may be able to seek damages if you or a loved one are harmed by an auto defect. The North Carolina product liability lawyers at Riddle & Brantley, LLP could help you determine whether it would be possible to seek compensation.

At Riddle & Brantley, LLP, Justice Counts.