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use, certain design and performance problems may occur that prompt
vehicle owners to file complaints with NHTSA. The many reports received
by the public form the basis for NHTSA’s defect investigations, which often
result in significant safety recalls.
How Will I Be Notified If a Recall Is Ordered or Initiated?
Within a reasonable time after the determination of a safety defect or
noncompliance, manufacturers must notify, by first-class mail, all registered
owners and purchasers of the affected vehicles of the existence of the
problem and give an evaluation of its risk to motor vehicle safety. The
manufacturer must explain to consumers the potential safety hazards
presented by the problem. Names of vehicle owners are obtained from
State motor vehicle offices. The letter must also instruct consumers on how
to get the problem corrected, remind them that corrections are to be made
at no charge, inform them when the remedy will be available, how long the
remedy will take to perform, and whom to contact if there is a problem in
obtaining the free recall work. If you do not receive a letter of notification
from the vehicle manufacturer but think that your vehicle might be involved
in a recall campaign, call the Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236 or
800-424-9393, visit the NHTSA website at www.safercar.gov/vin or contact
the manufacturer or your dealer.
Manufacturers of motor vehicle equipment—particularly tires, car seats,
and boosters—maintain lists of owners who have registered their products
with the manufacturer. When product or equipment recalls are initiated,
the manufacturer uses these lists to directly notify owners. Product and
equipment manufacturers may also be required to notify the public of
recalls through a variety of additional methods (e.g., advertisements, point-
of-purchase posters, etc.) to ensure that as many owners as possible are
aware of the recalls. If you are unsure whether your tire, car seat, or booster
is the subject of a recall, you may contact the manufacturer, call the Vehicle
Safety Hotline, or use NHTSA’s VIN lookup tool at www.safercar.gov/vin.