Pros and Cons of Fixing Your Car with a Recall

Car manufacturers often do their best to ensure their cars meet the safety regulations and standards their customers desire. Despite their efforts, there are still instances where your vehicle might have to be recalled for repairs. Here are some pros and cons of fixing your car with a recall.

Pros of Participating in the Recall

Address Safety Concerns

Your call will be recalled if the manufacturer thinks you and your vehicle might be at risk. Your car will need to be fixed to address the potential risks that have been identified. The good thing is that car recalls are often under the purview of government regulatory bodies. You can rest assured that all the major safety issues with the vehicle will be addressed carefully.

Manufacturers Cover the Repair Costs

Typically, manufacturers cover the repair costs incurred while fixing your vehicle. Whether small or large, you won’t have to break the bank to cover the costs of repairing brakes, airbags, tires, electrical components, and the engine. However, the costs don’t include radios, air conditioners, or wear and tear.

Legal Compliance

Car recalls are also essential to ensuring your car complies with the set legal standards and regulations. So, besides ensuring you’re safe on the road, fixing your car with a recall guarantees that it meets the required local or international legal standards.

Protects Your Car’s Warranty

Fixing your car with a recall also offers the advantage of ensuring it protects your warranty. Your manufacturer might renew or extend your warranty if it recalls your vehicle. However, this depends on the issues that need to be addressed. Ensure you confirm your warranty with your manufacturer when your car is recalled.

Doesn’t Affect the Resale Value

Car recalls have a positive impact on your vehicle’s resale value. Potential buyers would want to settle for a vehicle with a clean recall history. This is important to consider if you plan to resell your car.

Cons

Potential Delays and Inconvenience

Car recalls are a huge inconvenience, especially if you must leave your vehicle with the manufacturer for an extended period. It can even be worse if your car requires specific replacement parts. This might cause further delays in getting your car fixed.

Poor Communication from the Manufacturer

It’s frustrating when you have to call the manufacturer often, asking when your car will get fixed. Similarly, the manufacturer might fail to communicate effectively about cars needing recall. You might miss out on important upgrades or safety fixes that your car requires.

Potential for Additional Repairs

Car recalls might also reveal additional repairs that your vehicle requires. You may incur unwanted costs since your manufacturer doesn’t cover such costs.

Generally, car recalls are often done for a good reason. Car manufacturers have the best interest, and, unfortunately, you might be inconvenienced, especially if you use your car regularly. Remember that car recalls are designed to keep you safe regardless of the cons discussed.