The National Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA) reassures motorists that recall campaigns are actually a demonstration of manufacturer accountability and commitment to quality, safety and customer care.

A vehicle recall is a proactive measure initiated by an automotive manufacturer when a potential quality or safety concern is identified in a specific batch of vehicle components. To prevent a situation where the component fails on the road, manufacturers issue recall notifications to inspect, update or replace the affected parts. For vehicles that are maintained within the franchised dealership network, the necessary corrective work can be done when the car is booked in for repairs or a scheduled service.

However, owners of older vehicles, particularly those no longer covered by an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) warranty and those serviced outside the franchised dealership network, risk missing these essential updates.

“When a car is booked into a franchised dealership for routine servicing or repairs, the service advisor would typically check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) against the manufacturer’s central database for any open recalls,” explains Ashley Samuel, National Director of NADA.

If there’s an open recall, the dealership carries out the required work seamlessly. However, if a vehicle is maintained through an independent workshop, that automated process might not be present. That is why we strongly encourage car owners, particularly those who service their vehicle outside the franchised dealership network, to take a proactive step and check their vehicle’s status.

Key facts about recalls

Recalls reflect commitment to quality and safety – a recall notice does not mean a vehicle is inherently dangerous or poorly made. Instead, it reflects a commitment by car makers to continuously monitor vehicle performance in real-world conditions and implement improvements.

All recall work is free to the owner – every aspect of a factory recall, including parts, diagnostic testing, and specialised labour, is fully covered by the vehicle manufacturer. Car owners are never charged for work performed under an official recall campaign, regardless of whether the vehicle is a pre-owned model or out of warranty.

Quick and convenient resolutions – most technical reworks involve minor software updates or straightforward component swaps that are completed relatively quickly, with minimal inconvenience to the vehicle owner.

Vehicle manufacturers also make it simple for motorists to check if their vehicle requires a technical update. Most automotive brands feature a dedicated recalls checking tool on their websites where owners can simply enter their unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), found on the license disc or registration documentation, to instantly view any active recall notices.

Motorists can also call or visit any franchised dealership for their vehicle’s brand to have their VIN checked against the manufacturer’s recalls database. If an open recall is identified, the dealership will order the required parts if necessary and schedule a convenient appointment to complete the work free of charge.

Taking five minutes to check your VIN on a manufacturer portal or reaching out to a local franchised dealership ensures your vehicle benefits from the latest engineering refinements,” says Samuel, “keeping you and your family safe on the road.