What Does Recall Mean on a Car?

Historical car recalls are often displayed in car showrooms. They are typically addressed when a manufacturer, the owner, the driver, or the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) identifies a major issue with a specific car model.

Minor defects or issues, such as faulty airbags, suspension problems, or malfunctioning windshield wipers. A recall is a precautionary measure that alerts you to address or correct minor defects in your vehicle before they become a critical issue.

In this blog, we'll guide you by breaking down everything you need to know about car recalls, including the meaning of car recalls, why recalls happen, how to check if your vehicle is affected, and how they might impact you.

What does Recall Mean?

Firstly, the recall refers to an official notice from a manufacturer requesting that you return a model for inspection or repair, specifically for your vehicle. This shows up when they identify potential safety, performance, or compliance issues by either the manufacturer or the DVSA.

Minor issues, such as electrical faults, to major safety concerns, including defective airbags, braking problems, or steering malfunctions.

How Do Car Recalls Happen?

When you receive a recall notice, and you know it pertains to your car, you know that your vehicle is experiencing problems that you must address before they become irreversible. So to make it easier to understand, these recalls are divided into main types:

1- Safety Recalls

2- Stop-Drive Recalls

Safety Recalls: Safety recalls, in other words, are minor problems that don't immediately cause damage to the car, and you can still drive the vehicle while waiting for a fix. Examples include software malfunctions or incorrectly installed parts.

Stop-Drive Recalls: A stop-drive recall is a critical warning sign that you should not try to drive your vehicle. These are more serious issues. These recalls primarily highlight critical safety issues with systems, such as brakes or airbags. A notable example of a stop-drive recall is the Takata airbag recall, which affected millions of vehicles worldwide.

Note: vehicle fixed at no cost, and in rare cases, they may even purchase the affected vehicle back.

Tips to Check Car Recall History:

● Consider that if you found a recall history, the manufacturer will usually notify you. You might also hear about major recalls in the news before receiving official notice.

● To help you avoid uncertain vehicle issues that compromise your safety when planning to buy a second-hand or used car.

● Most importantly, these car brands or showrooms. Like Toyota, Tesla, Citroën, and DS Automobiles. These brands and more offer you to check the specific recalls tool online using the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number).

● Use our Cheap Carfax tool to find safety recalls of your vehicle.

If Your Car Is Recalled, What Should You Do?

If you find out your car has been recalled:

1.Firstly, and most importantly, contact your manufacturer or dealership urgently to book an appointment for repair with a good mechanic.

2.Regardless of your car's age or ownership history. Ensure that repairs are always free of charge.

3.For serious "stop-drive" recalls, do not drive the vehicle until the repair is completed, as it involves a life-risking part. Do not try to drive your car.

Precautionary Majors:

1.Sometimes, some owners offer you courtesy cars or pickup services depending on the case, whether the issue is severe or if repair parts are needed.

2.Keep that in mind, even if your vehicle is older or purchased second-hand, you're still entitled to a safety repair at no cost. So don't give your money to this matter.

3.Lastly, resolve this matter as early as possible, as a delay in repairing can harm your car's resale value and damage your car's condition further.

If you want to learn more about how vehicle history impacts your car's safety and performance? Check out our guide on Vehicle Reconditioning and Carfax Reports.

Conclusion

Now, after knowing the recall mean on a car, you can save yourself from life-threatening dangers on the road. Yes, recalls are not a bad thing, as they serve as proof that manufacturers are taking responsibility for your safety.

At CheapVHR, we believe in driving with confidence. Before buying or selling your vehicle, always check its recall status. And remember that we are here to assist you with a quick Vehicle History Report. You can verify any history recalls, accidents, or reconditioning work, ensuring your next car is safe and reliable.