How important is it to get a vehicle repaired after a recall?

There are many elements to being a safe driver. In addition to the care it takes to perform the task of driving, you also need to keep up with your vehicle’s maintenance.

Depending on your car’s make, model, and age, you may also need to follow up with recall notices on your vehicle. While the manufacturer might cover the repair cost, going without your car while repairs are made can make your life complicated.

Here’s what you should know about your obligation to get your car fixed after receiving a recall notice.

The short answer, it depends

When you receive a recall notice in the mail, there should be information on the severity of the issue with your car. The document should tell you if the vehicle is still safe to drive and what the safety issue is at hand.

If you are not the car’s first owner, you might not be listed as the person who should receive recall notices. Regularly checking a recall tracker can help you stay on top of recalls for your vehicle.

A defect could cause an accident

Some repairs are more likely than others to lead to an accident, but it is essential to err on the side of caution. A vehicle that is not operating the way that it should could create unforeseen issues while driving.

In some cases, a recall notice is easy to dismiss. The car may not have shown any sign of a problem yet.

However, when you learn of a recall notice, it is critical to follow the instructions rather than count on past performance. If you do not get it repaired, you could be surprised by a substantial problem with unintended consequences.