You get a phone call saying your Volkswagen Golf needs recalled and that you have to pop it down to the dealership.
Yep, your trusty little Volkswagen Golf that was meant to be reliable and fault-free.
But why was it recalled, and how long will you be without it?
We're here to talk you through the whole topic.
What Is a Vehicle Recall?
It's when a car manufacturer discovers a fault (or a potential fault) in one or more of their models, and decides to call them all back to dealerships to be fixed/looked at.
It could also be that they discover the model doesn't comply with Government regulations in some way.
The manufacturer will contact the registered owners of all affected vehicles to notify them, along with full details of the reason for the recall.
In the case of leasing, that's the finance provider, who will then pass the word on to you or the leasing company.
What Happens When I Get a Car Recall?
First of all, you'll probably still be OK to drive (unless told otherwise).
But don't leave it hanging for too long. The recall should still be addressed as soon as possible.
Once it is, all is well with the world again, and you're free to drive off into the sunset.
Why Do Vehicle Recalls Happen?
Because few things are perfect.
Least of all when it comes to cars.
So if the manufacturer has reason to believe that something's up, then you can bet your steering wheel that it's probably going to be the right thing to do.
Especially considering the range of problems and/or accidents that car defects can lead to.
Obviously, if you're told it's for a major safety recall, then best to get that car in first thing.
Some Well-Known Recall Cases
There have been some high-profile car recall incidents over the years, due to a mixed bag of faults.
Here are some of the most infamous:
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2013 Takata Airbags – Faulty inflators meant that airbags were expanding too forcefully. (42 million cars from 20 makes recalled)
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1980 Ford – Vehicles were shifting out of parking mode. (21 million cars recalled)
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1999 Ford – Fire risk due to cruise control switch. (14.9 million cars recalled)
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2009 Toyota – Faulty accelerator pedals causing sudden acceleration. (9 million cars recalled)
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2016 Volkswagen – Software cheated emissions tests. (8.5 million cars recalled)
How Do Manufacturers Determine Which Vehicles Are Subject to a Recall?
By looking at information from vehicle dealerships, customers, and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).
The DVSA will then evaluate the information provided by the car manufacturer, determining whether recall work is necessary.
How To Find Out If Your Leased Vehicle Has Been Recalled
By checking in with the manufacturer or the DVLA, who keep a database of all vehicles in the UK.
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You can check if your car's been recalled through the manufacturer by giving them your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
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If checking through the DVLA, enter your make, model, and registration number, and the car recall should show up (if there is one).
You could also check by contacting your leasing company, who may have gotten word from the manufacturer – but that shouldn't be your first port of call.
Product Recall Problems
Of course, a car recall could be down to anything, but here are some of the most common reasons:
Engine or Transmission Defects
Including stalling, sudden acceleration, or loss of power.
Faulty Airbags
Issues relating to the airbags can cause them to deploy with excessive force or fail, leading to serious safety issues.
Steering Issues
These could obviously cause loss of control and increase the risk of an accident.
Defects With Seat Belts
Seatbelts are the thing which stop you flying through the windscreen, so it's no wonder that they need to be in tip-top condition.
Electrical System Issues
The electrical system in any car is pretty extensive, meaning there's a whole host of things that could go wrong here, e.g. malfunctioning lights.
Brake System Problems
Causing major problems like reduced stopping distance, and increasing the risk of a car crash.
Do I Have to Pay for the Car Repairs?
That would be a bit unfair, wouldn't it?
The carmaker screws up, and you have to pay for it?
Ha, dream on . . .
Nope. You'll find that the work will be paid for by the manufacturer without any cost to yourself.
Can I Ignore a Car Recall?
Not really.
Why would you want to drive around in a car that you know isn't in the best shape?
Plus, you don't have to pay for the work required, so it's not like you're losing anything (other than the few hours of time it'll be at the dealership).
If you got involved in a collision due to ignoring the recall and it's discovered that your car's faulty, then you could land in hot water with the law.
The law holds you responsible for ensuring your car is in a roadworthy condition, so ignoring a safety recall could land you in hot water with the law.
It would also affect any car insurance claim you make.
So . . . ignore a car recall at your peril!
Am I Entitled To a Replacement Vehicle During a Recall?
Normally not, no.
That's because the required work usually means that you'll get your car back on the same day.
But if the recall is due to something major, and the car could be away for a long time, then the manufacturer may provide a courtesy car. Or they could reimburse you for costs to take out a hire car.
Moral of the story: it all depends on the dealership!
Pay Attention to the Lease Agreement
Not the most obvious thing to do, but if you receive a car recall, it should prompt you to check your lease contract.
There may be a clause in there somewhere relating to car recalls and what the other party is obligated to do in such an event.
Summary
So, now you know what to do if your lease vehicle is recalled.
Hopefully it never happens, but always best to be prepared.
FAQs
What are my rights if my car is recalled?
The good news is that you won't have to pay for any work carried out after the recall notice. However, you might have to pay for any work related to 'non-code actions' if the safety recall was ignored. Dealers might also use the recall as an opportunity to inspect your car for any other repair work, which could incur a cost.
Do I get a courtesy car if my car is recalled?
That's up to the individual manufacturer, so it's not guaranteed. However, if you're dealing with a reputable carmaker with a good history of customer service, then there could be a chance. Especially if your car will be out of action for a long period of time.