Your car has been recalled by the manufacturer - Now what?

Given that cars these days are products of careful planning, advanced engineering and rigorous testing, it’s only fair for us to expect a given vehicle to be safe and problem-free, especially when brand-new.

The last thing we need to hear is our cars being recalled by the manufacturer for some issue or another. What would you do if this happens? Read on.

New cars are always a joy to their owners, and nothing beats driving a brand-new automobile. Being involved in an untoward incident involving the car is unthinkable. But imagine, for instance, blissfully cruising down the highway when the car suddenly speeds up against your wishes.

The last thing we need to hear is our cars being recalled by the manufacturer for some issue or another

Or a defect renders the car barely drivable. And then you find out that many others who own the same car you do have a similar experience, eventually prompting a recall announcement from the manufacturer.

Vehicle recalls might not sound very reassuring, considering the amount you paid (or are paying) for the car that you wanted. But an important point to make is that recalls are an indication that the manufacturer been notified of the problem and is taking concrete steps to address it. Keep reading to find out with Philkotse.com.

1. Why should Filipino car owners take serious notice of recalls?

A cavalier attitude have no place in car ownership when problems arise, especially those that can potentially endanger the driver, passengers or other road users. Recalls are done to protect the interests of the customer, and ignoring or deferring action on a recall announcement only exposes everyone to more risk.

>>> Let's update: Toyota Issues Service Recall Advisory for Toyota Rush.

2. What necessitates a recall?

When a problem impairs or threatens to compromise the car’s intended performance and occupant safety, then it’s a sure bet for a recall. These problems will typically arise through no fault of the customer or owner and will have manifested in numbers large enough to pose a significant concern for the manufacturer.

The cause of the recall is also something that the manufacturer can easily and promptly address, without having to extensively modify the vehicle and deprive the owner of the use of the product for an extended period of time.

When a problem threatens to compromise the car’s intended performance and occupant safety, then it’s a sure bet for a recall

There are certain issues that may not count as grounds for issuing a recall, including:

• Problems with airconditioning or climate control.
• Consumable or wear and tear components such as brake pads, batteries, shock absorbers, and exhaust systems.
• Issues with the car chassis.
• Defects on the car’s paint finish.

>>> Also read: 4 questions to ask before having your car serviced in the Philippines.

3. What happens when a specific model is recalled?

The first step is to contact the dealership where the unit was purchased, asking them the circumstances of the recall, the specific part that needs to be fixed or replaced, how long it will take, and will it be done without cost to the owner. You can also ask about the implications if you decide not to heed the recall announcement, although in most cases this isn’t advisable.

The first step is to contact the dealership where the unit was purchased

A carmaker issuing a recall is simply exercising its legal and moral responsibility to its customers, and not heeding this opportunity could worsen the problem in the long run.

>>> Check out: Top 10 car brand with best customer service in the Philippines.

Final thoughts

When a recall is in effect, it’s best to heed the manufacturer’s advice. It can’t be emphasized enough that recalls are done not just for the owner’s safety and the manufacturer to save face, but to protect the well-being of as many people as possible who will potentially share the road with the affected unit.

When a recall is in effect, it’s best to heed the manufacturer’s advice

While car recalls are rarely highlighted because they can tarnish a car brand’s track record, it also shows that carmakers are committed to look after the customer, long after the transaction has been concluded at the dealership.