What is a recall remedy?
The fix a manufacturer must provide free of charge for a safety recall: repair, replacement, or a refund of the purchase price less reasonable depreciation.
Under 49 U.S.C. 30120 the manufacturer chooses how to remedy a defect or noncompliance (repair, replace with an identical or reasonably equivalent vehicle, or refund). The free remedy is not required for a vehicle first sold more than 15 years before the owner notice.
When parts are not ready, owners first get an interim letter and a second letter when the remedy is available. A recall stays open on a VIN until a dealer completes the remedy, even when the vehicle changes hands.
Sources
Related terms
- Owner notification letterThe recall letter mailed to registered owners, due no later than 60 days after the manufacturer files its Part 573 report.
- Part 573 Safety Recall ReportThe defect or noncompliance report a manufacturer must file with NHTSA within 5 working days of deciding a safety defect or noncompliance exists.
- Do-not-drive and park-outside advisoriesFlags on the most dangerous recalls: owners are told not to drive the vehicle until it is repaired, or to park it outside and away from buildings because of fire risk.