FROM THE BLOG

Why Many Vehicle Owners Don’t Receive the Necessary Recall Repairs

When the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) announces a vehicle safety recall, the manufacturer notifies affected customers and informs them of what steps to take to receive the necessary repairs. However, this process is by no means perfect, leaving many consumers in the dark about the safety issue or without a clear understanding of how to obtain the replacement part. Let’s take a look at why millions of vehicles on the road right now still haven’t received the necessary safety repairs.

The Replacement Parts Aren’t Available

One of the most frustrating situations is when a consumer receives word that their vehicle has been recalled, but the replacement part is not yet available. Some customers find themselves placed on months-long waiting lists at multiple dealerships, waiting for long periods of time for the replacement part. For many drivers, the safety issue makes them fearful of driving their vehicle, causing even more logistical issues and depriving them of their primary mode of transportation. Automakers do not have a legally defined deadline for making replacement parts available to consumers, meaning that customers could wait several months until they can safely operate their car again. In these cases, customers may be entitled to a loaner vehicle or a buyback under California’s lemon law.

Many Used Vehicles Under Recall

Those who purchase a used vehicle may not know that it has been recalled. It’s important to use your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to check whether this is the case (the NHTSA website has a tool to help you perform a recall search). If you discover that this is the case, be sure to take the recommended steps to address the issue and secure the recall repair as quickly as possible. If you encounter any issues during this process, enlist the support of an experienced lemon law attorney to help you obtain a successful outcome. 

Understanding Your Consumer Rights in California

It’s important to recognize that you have rights as a consumer under California’s lemon law. If your vehicle has experienced a persistent defect or has spent more time in the repair shop than on the road, you may be entitled to receive a replacement vehicle or a refund. Contact a trusted lemon law attorney today to discuss your situation and explore your options.

 

Call the dedicated Berkeley lemon law attorneys at Lemon Law Partners, LLP today at (510) 944-0336 to arrange a free evaluation of your case.

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