When it comes to maintaining and repairing your vehicle, it’s important to ensure that you are using high-quality and safe parts. Unfortunately, not all auto parts are created equal, and some may have defects or design flaws that can put you and your passengers at risk. In these cases, the manufacturer or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) may issue a recall for the faulty parts. If you are considering repairing or replacing a part on your vehicle, it’s important to find out if the part has been recalled and to follow the recommended steps for addressing the issue.
So how can you find out if an auto part has been recalled? Here are a few steps you can take:
Check the NHTSA website
The NHTSA is responsible for issuing vehicle safety recalls in the United States. You can search their website for recall information by entering your vehicle’s make, model, and year, as well as the part in question. The website will provide information on the recall, including the reason for the recall and the recommended actions to take.
Contact the manufacturer
If you are unsure if a recall has been issued for a specific part, you can also try contacting the manufacturer directly. Many manufacturers have a customer service hotline or website where you can find information on recalls and other safety issues.
Check with your dealership
If you purchased the vehicle new, your dealership may be able to provide information on any recalls that have been issued for your specific model. They may also be able to help you with the repair or replacement process if a recall has been issued.
Use online resources
There are also a number of online resources that can help you find out if an auto part has been recalled. For example, the SaferCar app, available from the NHTSA, allows you to search for recall information by VIN (vehicle identification number) or by make and model. Other online resources such as the Consumer Reports website and the Carfax website also provide recall information.
If you do find out that an auto part has been recalled, it’s important to follow the recommended actions to address the issue. This may involve getting the part repaired or replaced at no cost to you, or it may involve returning the part to the manufacturer for a refund. It’s also a good idea to
keep track of any recalls that have been issued for your vehicle and to check for new recalls on a regular basis
Taking Legal Action When a Defective Auto Part Causes Harm
Although taking these steps can help you avoid installing a defective auto part in your vehicle, it’s possible you’ve already been injured as a result of a defective part that was already installed in your vehicle when you purchased it.
If this has happened, you may be eligible to receive compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other such losses. Learn more about your legal options by reviewing your case with a Miami defective auto parts attorney at Colson Hicks Eidson. Get started today by contacting us online or calling us at 305-476-7400.
