It’s only April, and — still — it hasn’t been a good year for car manufacturers. Earlier this year, GM recalled 1.6 million compact cars, and Toyota recently jumped on the bandwagon — recalling 6.4 million of its own vehicles. Consumers are rightfully concerned about their safety, and knowing whether your car is affected and what to do about it is vitally important.
Was Your GM or Toyota Recalled? Find Out Now
Don’t just assume your vehicle wasn’t affected by GM or Toyota’s recent recalls. Your safety may be in question, and you should be proactive about it. It’s true that you are likely to receive a notice in the mail if your vehicle is recalled, but there are several ways to double-check for your own peace of mind, too. Recalls.gov, “National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) recall and defects website,” a free online tool maintained by Consumer Reports, and the car manufacturers’ sites will all help you determine whether your car is affected, ABC News explains.
Get Free Repairs From Your Dealership
Dealerships will repair defective parts for free. Some dealerships may even proactively get in touch with you to schedule repairs. Don’t count on it, however. Once you have verified that your car needs repairs, call to schedule an appointment. Some dealerships may have to wait until parts come in — so expect a few weeks’ or months’ delay. If you are uncomfortable driving your vehicle in the meantime, a rental or loaner car is often provided at no extra cost.
Used Car Owners, You’re Eligible, Too!
Affordable used cars are a steal, and they’re just a safe — as far as recalls are concerned, too. Don’t assume that used cars prices or good used cars aren’t worth it because you can’t get free repairs in the event of a recall. “Regardless of whether you are the original owner or not, you still qualify for any recalls, including those that have occurred before you bought the car. The statute of limitations for all no-charge recalls is eight years from the original sale date of the vehicle,” Kelley Blue Book writes. Buy used cars or browse rental cars for sale without worrying.
Don’t drive a car that’s unsafe. Remember, used cars prices include free recall repairs from the dealership. You will need the vehicle identification number, but you are eligible! Check out this site for more.