Check your vehicle for safety issues

What Is a Vehicle Safety Recall?

A vehicle safety recall is when a car manufacturer or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) determines that a car model has a safety-related defect or doesn't meet federal safety standards.

Types of Vehicle Recalls

There are two types of vehicle recalls in the United States: safety recalls and emissions recalls. A safety recall is issued when a car manufacturer or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) determines that a vehicle poses a safety risk to drivers, passengers, or others on the road. An emissions recall is issued when a car manufacturer or the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) determines that a vehicle emits too much pollution.

Have you ever been driving your car and had a sudden urge to pull over and check under the hood? Maybe you were heading to work and noticed your check engine light was on, or perhaps you were on a long road trip when you realized you were low on oil. Whatever the case may be, it's always a good idea to take a closer look at your car when something seems off. And, if you're lucky, that's all it will be - a false alarm. But, if you're not so lucky, your car could be part of a safety recall.

In the event that your car has been recalled, it's important to take the necessary steps to ensure a safe return. First, check to see if your car is affected by the recall using the VIN number. If it is, contact the dealership or manufacturer as soon as possible to schedule a repair. Be sure to have your proof of ownership handy when you call. Once you've scheduled a repair, take your car to the designated location at the appointed time. While most recalls are handled quickly and efficiently, it's important to be patient and follow the instructions of the professionals.