Have you ever opened your mailbox to find a letter from your car manufacturer with the word “RECALL” in bold? These letters often include urgent words like "Important" or "Urgent," signaling that they require your attention. However, amidst all the flyers and junk mail we get, it’s easy to overlook or toss aside these important notices.
If you're concerned about the safety of your vehicle or think you might have missed a recall, it's essential to check your car’s recall status. Here’s a guide for Canadian drivers on understanding vehicle recalls and the steps to take if your car is affected.
What is a car recall?
In Canada, vehicle recalls are overseen by Transport Canada, which works to ensure road safety. A recall is issued when a vehicle manufacturer or Transport Canada identifies a safety defect that poses an unreasonable risk. A recall typically means a part of your vehicle needs to be repaired or replaced to prevent potential accidents or malfunctions.
How will I know if my car is being recalled?
When a recall is issued, automakers are required to notify the registered owners of the affected vehicles within 60 days and is typically sent by some form of registered mail.
How urgent is a recall?
Just because your car seems to be working doesn’t mean an issue isn’t lurking under the surface. In the case of the GM ignition switch recall, faulty switches could cause the car to shut off while driving, leading to a loss of power steering and braking—and even disabling the airbags. Such issues can be life-threatening, especially on the highway. If a manufacturer has deemed the issue large enough to notify customers, it’s because the issue is critical.
How do I check if my car has a recall?
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Visit your car manufacturer’s website: Many automakers have sections dedicated to recall information where you can search by your vehicle’s details.
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Use the Transport Canada Recall Database: You can also visit the Transport Canada website and use their Vehicle Recalls Database to check if your vehicle is affected. Simply enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and you’ll see any recalls that apply to your car.
Will the recall repair cost me money?
No, recall repairs are completely free. You just need to take your car to an authorized dealership, where the manufacturer will cover the cost of the repair.
I suspect my car has a recall – What do I do now?
If your vehicle is part of a recall, here’s what you need to do:
- Contact an authorized dealership: Call a dealership that services your vehicle’s brand to schedule a recall repair.
- Bring your recall letter.
Final thoughts for Canadian drivers
If you suspect that your car might have an open recall, it’s important to act quickly. Fixing the issue will keep you safe on the road, and the repair won’t cost you a dime. Use the resources mentioned above to check your vehicle’s recall status today and avoid unnecessary safety risks. By staying on top of recall notices, you ensure your vehicle is road-safe and prevent accidents or malfunctions.