How Car Recalls Work and What to Do

What is a safety recall?

A safety recall is issued when a manufacturer or the federal government determines that a vehicle, or a piece of equipment such as a tire or car seat, has a safety-related defect or does not meet a minimum safety standard. The concern is whether the problem creates an unreasonable risk of a crash, or of injury if a crash happens.

That is different from a part that simply wears out. Brake pads thinning with mileage are normal maintenance. A defect that could affect many vehicles of the same kind is what a recall is meant to address.

Who issues recalls, and who keeps an eye on them?

Manufacturers carry out most recalls, and they must report them to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, or NHTSA. NHTSA is the federal agency that oversees vehicle safety and monitors each recall to make sure owners receive a remedy that is safe, free and effective.

We are an independent shop. We are not part of NHTSA or any manufacturer, and recall remedies come from the manufacturer through its authorized dealers.

How will I find out about a recall on my car?

Manufacturers notify registered owners by first-class mail. A letter can miss you if you bought the car used, moved, or never updated your registration, so do not rely on the mail alone.

• Read the notice: it describes the problem, the risk, and what the manufacturer wants you to do in the meantime.
• Call the dealer: contact a local dealership for that brand to schedule the repair. Safety recall repairs are done at no charge.
• Keep the paperwork: save the notice and the repair record with your other vehicle documents.

What does a "park outside" or "do not drive" notice mean?

Some recalls come with interim guidance because the risk is serious while the repair is still waiting on parts. A "park outside" notice generally means the safest place for the vehicle until it is fixed is outdoors and away from homes and other structures, often because of a fire risk. A "do not drive" notice means the manufacturer is telling owners not to use the vehicle until it is repaired.

The next step is simple: look up your vehicle by its VIN, confirm whether any recall is open, and call the dealer for an appointment.