In manufacturing a vehicle, car companies provide assurance to their buyers that the model they choose is as safe as possible. A manufacturer’s own team of engineers includes those conducting safety tests. Outside agencies, like government bodies, also conduct their own independent tests. Between these separate teams, a safety issue may be discovered that didn’t initially present itself.
When that happens and the vehicle has already entered the marketplace, a recall will be issued. This allows the manufacturer to rectify the problem for consumers, usually at no cost to them. If your vehicle is the subject of a recall, you’ll receive a notice in the mail and have a window of several months in which to bring your vehicle to the dealership or a mechanic for a replacement part.