Automobile recalls hit record numbers

With more than 100 injuries and 8 deaths caused by defective airbags alone worldwide, Atlantic City consumers may be concerned over whether their vehicles are safe. According to NBC News, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that automobile recalls hit an all-time high in 2015. NHTSA records show that recalls were issued for nearly 900 different auto defects resulting in the recall of over 51 million automobiles. The agency further reports that as many as 25 percent of recalled vehicles are not taken in for repairs.

The NHTSA seeks to ensure that all vehicle owners are able to easily access recall information for their specific automobiles by searching its website. Users simply input their VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and all recall information for that specific vehicle can be accessed and reviewed.

Safercar.gov states that notifications of a recall must be sent to every owner of the vehicle in question and provide details including the fact that repairs are free, what needs to be repaired and where to have the repairs performed. These recalls are issued for defects that are safety related and when federal motor vehicle safety standards are not met. Notices of recall can be initiated voluntarily by the vehicle manufacturer or by the NHTSA after close examination of consumer claims. If consumers suspect their vehicle may have a defective component, there are three ways by which they can report their concerns:

  •          Mail a complaint to the U.S. Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Office of Defects Investigation
  •          Submit a complaint online
  •          Call the vehicle safety hotline 

New Jersey vehicle owners can easily take a proactive role in automobile safety by conducting a recall VIN search on their vehicles a couple of times a year. But, it is not enough just to know that a safety defect exists; drivers must also follow through with the recommended repairs.

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Pinterest