We have been closely following the Takata airbag recall for months. The most recent reports are calling the recall a “full-blown crisis”; only eight million out of the 70 million cars affected in the US have been fixed. Regulators have announced that a full resolution could take years. The manufacturers at the core of the recall include Honda, Acura, Toyota, Mazda and Audi.
The most significant safety recall in our country’s history makes you wonder, what do you do when your car is recalled? For your safety, follow these steps.
Don’t Panic
According to Consumer Reports, most recalls are not as colossal as Takata. When something goes wrong during the manufacturing of a vehicle, chances are it won’t be a direct danger to you; it could be as simple as a forgotten or mislabeled safety sticker. However, car companies are hesitant to take any chances, in case the part in question actually malfunctions. Call your dealership to get the details if you receive a recall notice in the mail.
Schedule an Appointment for Service
A recall notice will tell you the problem with your vehicle, the risks and warning signs, the manufacturer’s plan to resolve the issue and instructions for repair. Contact your dealership right away to get an appointment for service, rather than waiting. Chances are that you’re not the only one who drives this type of vehicle in your area. The waiting list could be long! You should not ignore the issue if it is related to acceleration, braking or steering.
Know Your Rights
According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, consumers have 10 years to have their recall repairs completed for free. The manufacturer takes responsibility for any cost involved. Statistics show that 30 percent of recalled vehicles never receive the necessary repairs. You don’t want to take this chance, no matter how minor the issue may seem. If you’re involved in an accident caused by your vehicle’s defective part, you could find yourself in legal trouble with the victim.
If you or a loved one has been in an accident due to your own or someone else’s defective vehicle, contact Trantolo & Trantolo today and we will fight for your rights.
