How Dealerships Perform Recall Repairs and What’s Free

You’ve received a recall notice in the mail – your car’s manufacturer has identified a safety issue that needs to be fixed. Now what? If you’re like many car owners, you’re wondering how dealerships perform recall repairs and what’s free. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process step by step, so you know what to expect and how to get your car back on the road safely.

What Is a Recall?

Before we dive into the repair process, let’s quickly cover what a recall is. A recall is when a manufacturer identifies a safety issue with a particular model or component of a vehicle. This can be anything from a faulty airbag to a malfunctioning engine part. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) oversees the recall process, ensuring that manufacturers take steps to correct the issue and notify affected owners.

How Do Dealerships Perform Recall Repairs?

When you receive a recall notice, you’ll typically be instructed to contact a local dealership that sells your car’s brand. Here’s what happens next:

1. Schedule an Appointment: Call the dealership’s service department to schedule an appointment. Let them know you’ve received a recall notice and provide your vehicle’s identification number (VIN). They’ll check their system to confirm the recall and schedule a repair time.
2. Inspection and Diagnosis: When you bring your car in, the dealership’s service team will inspect your vehicle to confirm the issue. They’ll diagnose the problem and determine the necessary repairs.
3. Repair or Replacement: The dealership will perform the necessary repairs or replace the faulty component. This might involve software updates, part replacements, or other fixes.
4. Testing and Quality Control: Once the repair is complete, the dealership will test your vehicle to ensure the issue is resolved and the repair meets the manufacturer’s standards.
5. Return Your Vehicle: With the repair complete, you’ll be notified that your car is ready for pickup. The dealership will provide you with documentation showing the recall repair was completed.

What’s Free?

The best part? Recall repairs are free. Yes, you read that right – free. The manufacturer is responsible for covering the cost of the repair, including parts and labor. You won’t receive a bill or be asked to pay anything out of pocket.

What If I’ve Already Paid for a Repair?

If you’ve already paid for a repair that’s related to the recall, you might be eligible for reimbursement. Contact the dealership or manufacturer to provide proof of the repair and your payment. They’ll guide you through the reimbursement process.

Tips and Reminders

• Always respond promptly to recall notices to ensure your safety on the road.
• Keep a record of your recall repair, including the date, details of the repair, and any documentation provided by the dealership.
• If you’ve sold your vehicle, notify the new owner of the recall repair.
• You can check if your vehicle has any outstanding recalls by visiting the NHTSA’s website (nhtsa.gov) and entering your VIN.

Conclusion

Receiving a recall notice can be concerning but knowing how dealerships perform recall repairs and what’s free can put your mind at ease. Remember, recall repairs are free, and the process is designed to ensure your safety on the road. By following these steps and staying informed, you’ll be back behind the wheel in no time.