Sometimes a letter or a postcard arrives in the mail about a recall on a vehicle you may own. Do you read it, or does it head for the trash?
If the latter, you may be missing critical information that could affect your safety as well as your family’s. Recalls occur frequently and may not be known until a few years after manufacture. Below are a few recent recalls that could have serious consequences if not repaired:
• September 10, 2015 – Fiat Chrysler recalled over 1.7 million trucks for faulty steering wheel wiring and airbag issues. This affects 2012-2014 Ram models 1500, 2500, and 3500.
• August 20, 2015 – Ford Motor Company (Ford) found passenger seat belt anchorage floor attachments that are not installed in the correct location. This may increase risk of injury in the event of a crash.
• August 17, 2015 – BMW North America, LLC (BMW) reported problems with new software that can make front side marker lights inoperative under certain conditions. Without this illumination, the vehicle would be less visible at night, increasing the risk of a crash.
Not much has been reported about these recalls, so vehicle owners and drivers must take responsibility to check periodically. Here are two online resources:
• safercar.gov: You can check by VIN or sign up for email alerts for your vehicle make.
• recalls.gov: These are listed in date of recall order, starting with the most recent.
Check your oil, check your tires, check for recall notices, get regular inspections, and enjoy safe driving!
