Driving a car can come with many responsibilities. In addition to filling it up with gas, there is also a long list of routine maintenance to keep your vehicle safe and working properly.
When you hear about routine maintenance, you may think about oil changes and new tires. However, you should also routinely check to see if your vehicle has a recall notice, especially if you are not the first owner.
Here’s what you should know about a recall notice’s impact on your vehicle’s safety.
The repair is typically free
Car manufacturers are responsible for putting out a safe product that works for its intended purposes. When they put out a recall notice, it is because they have discovered a flaw in the car and have a way to fix it.
Most manufacturers will have you schedule an appointment at a local dealership to make the repair. In most cases, they do not ask the owner to pay for the repair.
How do I know if my vehicle has a recall notice?
Tracking down the first owner of a car is usually simple. Their address is on file, and the manufacturer mails a notification.
However, if you move or are not the first owner, sometimes the notice does not make it to the correct person. Several websites track vehicle recalls, including the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). To find out if there is a recall on your car, you simply enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The next screen will tell you if there is a recall on your vehicle.
You should also keep in mind that you may have other equipment in or on your vehicle that could be subject to recalls, such as car seats and tires. Keeping up with these critical safety recalls is essential to keeping yourself and others safe on the road.