Recently, Honda has issued a recall due to a 'sticky' steering wheel issue that has so far proven to not be life-threatening. However, your safety on the road is one of the most important driving factors – but what should you do if your vehicle is recalled? Don’t get caught unprepared with our easy-to-follow guide.
What Is a Recall?
When there’s a recall, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) determines if a vehicle does not meet motor vehicle safety standards. Manufacturers are then required to file a report including details of the vehicle, the number of vehicles affected, equipment affected, a description of the defect, what led up to the decision to recall, an explanation, and a recall schedule. Registered owners must receive a recall notification from manufacturers by first-class mail within 60 days of the recall instructing owners on how to get the issue fixed, the time frame of the fix, and how long the repair should take.
Checking For a Recall
According to the NHTSA website, searching by license plate is one of the newest and best ways to check for a recall. While manufacturers must notify registered vehicle owners in 60 days, physical mail can be unreliable. If you have suspicions of a recall or have seen news concerning a potential recall on your car’s make and model, searching the NHTSA website for a recall through your car’s license plate or Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is the easiest and most efficient way to stay safe.
What To Do When Your Car Is Recalled?
Once you find out if the recall applies to your vehicle or parts, there are three options: repair, replace, or refund. By law, the manufacturer must choose one of the three options to correct the issue. If the manufacturer has chosen repair, your vehicle or part must be repaired by the manufacturer at no cost to the vehicle owner. Replacement means that if the problem can’t be fixed, the manufacturer must provide you with another similar or identical model. A refund option involves the manufacturer refunding the purchase price of your vehicle, minus depreciation. These options also apply to accessories such as car seats.
Your recall letter or warning should notify you if your car is too dangerous to drive. Regardless, the recall issue should be resolved immediately by taking your vehicle to a local authorized dealership matching the make of your car. Remember, the bigger the recall, the longer the waitlist for an appointment.
How to Book a Recall Repair Appointment at Avalon Honda
Recalls must be done at dealerships for recording purposes, quality monitoring, and making recalled parts available to manufacturers for inspection. While the NHTSA gives manufacturers a grace period for repairs to be made available after a recall, you should contact your local dealership to book an appointment as early as possible to beat the crowds. Establishing a friendly relationship with your local registered dealership can pay off during a difficult recall period!
Has your vehicle been recalled? Call Avalon Honda immediately to book your recall repair appointment and ensure your vehicle functions to its intended safety guidelines and performs its best. Our team is happy to help, from minor service to full recall assistance!
