Auto Recall FAQs

What is a recall and when is it necessary?

Recalls are mandated by federal law under specified circumstances. Most recalls are voluntary by manufacturers, but the government can require manufacturers to implement recalls. There are two types of recalls: Safety and Emissions. A Safety recall occurs when a group of vehicles or items of motor vehicle equipment does not meet federal safety standards or contain a safety-related defect. An emissions recall can occur when a substantial number of vehicles in a class or category does not meet emission standards. The manufacturer then develops a remedy that is approved by the appropriate government entity, either NHSTA or the EPA, and notifies the owners of the vehicle by registered mail as well as providing the dealership with all technical information in order to repair the condition. The owner can then contact their preferred dealership to have the remedy performed.

What is NHTSA?

The NHTSA, or the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, is the federal agency that manages vehicle safety standards. Their objective is to reduce the number of vehicle-related accidents as well as prevent possible injuries. The NHTSA enforces regulations relating to vehicle performance and looks into safety flaws. Additionally, it’s the agency that we trust to provide crash test ratings for many of our vehicles.

How do I find out if the used vehicle that I am interested in buying is affected by a safety recall?

No need to stress when buying a used vehicle. The NHTSA website lets users enter any vehicle’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) into its system to bring up a report that will show if that vehicle has any active safety recalls. The website also provides general information on safety based on a vehicle’s year, make and model. In addition to using the NHTSA website, a CARFAX report will be provided to you before you buy the vehicle so you can review the vehicle’s history as well as whether there have been any safety recalls reported.*

Does Gettel Toyota of Bradenton fix open safety recalls?

When you choose a vehicle from us, especially from our Certified Pre-Owned inventory, you’ll know that we will have fixed any recalls available. However, that may not always be possible depending on the nature of the recall or the accessibility of parts. Regardless of whether a vehicle is "certified" or not, you will have the chance to look over a CARFAX report prior to sale, which should give you more insight into the vehicle’s history and any open recalls.

How will I find out if my vehicle is subject to a safety recall after I purchase it?

Manufacturers have to inform people affected about a safety recall by first-class mail. Additionally, they will usually give a description of the recall’s risk to safety and any hazards it could pose. The notice will also give you instructions about what to do for next steps. We suggest keeping your state registration information up to date to be sure to receive notice of a safety recall. Plus, you can also register your vehicle with the manufacturer as soon as you purchase it, so you’ll be sure to receive important information on your vehicle. Most manufacturers also give you the option to look up recalls via your VIN on their sites.

If I find out my vehicle is subject to a safety recall after I buy it, how do I get it fixed?

If your vehicle is affected by a safety recall, take it to a manufacturer-authorized repair facility. They are required to fix the problem at no cost to you. If your Toyota needs something repaired or replaced due to a recall, be sure to schedule your service with a dealer who knows your vehicle inside and out (like us).