Vehicle recalls shouldn’t be taken lightly. Recalls affect your safety and the safety of your passengers. Vehicle Safety Recalls week is an important reminder to check for open recalls on your vehicles.
There are hundreds of recalls issued annually. Also, sometimes recalls are updated. For example, several Takata air bag recalls were upgraded to “Do Not Drive” warnings in 2022. Check for open recalls at least twice a year and get any unrepaired recalls resolved as soon as possible.
How to Check for Recalls
Start by finding your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It’s 17 characters typically found on the lower left of your vehicle’s windshield or on the label instead your driver side door. You may also find it on your vehicle registration or insurance documents.
Next, search your VIN at NHTSA.gov/recalls. The search will let you know if there’s an open safety recall that affects your vehicle. If there is a recall, it will also let you know what steps to take. If you have an open recall, get your vehicle repaired for free immediately at a local dealership.
Recalls are often issued for other equipment related to your vehicle as well. Be on the lookout for car seat and tire recalls. Registering your child’s car seat will ensure that you receive recall information, but you can also check the NHTSA.gov/recalls page for open recalls. If any of these items are recalled, manufacturers must resolve the issue by fixing it, replacing it, or offering you a refund.
“Do Not Drive” Takata Recalls
Honda recently issued a “Do Not Drive” warning for certain 2001-2003 Acura and Honda vehicles with unrepaired Takata Alpha driver side air bag inflators. If you own one of these vehicles and still have an open recall, don’t drive it until the repair has been completed. Replacement parts are available and free for this recall. Contact your dealership or Acura/Honda customer service to schedule the repair and free towing or mobile repair.
The NHTSA press release notes that these models are now over 20 years old. The risk for vehicle occupants is dire, since Alpha air bags have a 50% failure rate. If the inflators rupture, metal fragments ejected toward the driver’s face could cause death or life-altering injuries. Honda has replaced or accounted for more than 99% of Alpha inflators, there are about 8,2000 vehicles with these air bags still being driven today.
If you or a loved one has been injured, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
