Vehicle Safety Recalls
What are Vehicle Safety Recalls?
Today’s new cars are safer than ever and many models come equipped with advanced safety systems such as airbags, back-up cameras, electronic stability controls, anti-lock brakes, and proximity warning systems. However, manufacturing defects can occur, and some of these can affect the safety of drivers and their passengers.
Under federal legislation, automobile manufacturers are required to issue safety recall information to owners of vehicles affected by safety-related defects and to repair the problem(s). However, if you are the second or third owner, you may not receive the notice in a timely fashion, and it may be sent to a former owner.
Is My Vehicle Subject to a Safety Recall?
If you have received a safety recall notice from the manufacturer of your vehicle, follow the guidance provided in the notice and promptly arrange for the defect to be repaired. If you haven’t received a notice but are curious to know if your vehicle is subject to a vehicle safety recall, it’s easy to find out:
- Step 1
Visit Transport Canada’s Motor Vehicle Safety Recalls Database. Here you will be able to look up your vehicle’s make, model and year to determine if a vehicle safety recall has been issued for your type of vehicle. - Step 2
If your vehicle is listed, call the manufacturer or visit the manufacturer’s website to check the status of the recall on your specific vehicle. This information will be easily obtained by entering your vehicle’s Vehicle Identification Number or VIN into the manufacturer’s database. The VIN number is typically located in the lower-left corner of the dashboard, and can be seen by looking through the windshield. It may also be located inside the driver’s side door or in the owner’s manual or registration information. - Step 3
If your particular vehicle is subject to a recall that has not yet been fixed, contact a dealership that sells your vehicle’s make and arrange for the recall to be fixed. You should not be charged for the repairs.
These three simple steps will help keep you and your car safe.
