Once you are aware of a recall repair notice on your vehicle, it is important to address the issue promptly. It can be frustrating to discover that your dealership refuses to deal with the problem.
Dealing with a reluctant local dealership can be challenging, but there are steps you can take to protect your rights as a consumer.
Review recall information
Start by confirming that the manufacturer has issued a recall on the issue you are experiencing. Check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website or the manufacturer’s official website. These sites will contain the latest recall information and details about the problem.
Document everything
Keep a detailed record of your interactions with the dealership. Include dates, names of individuals you spoke with and the content of your conversations. Additionally, document the issues with your vehicle and take photographs if possible. Keep all relevant paperwork, such as repair estimates and invoices.
Contact the manufacturer
Reach out directly to the vehicle manufacturer to report the dealership’s refusal to address the recall. Manufacturers take these matters seriously and may intervene to ensure compliance with recall directives.
Contact other dealerships
If the local dealership remains uncooperative, reach out to other authorized dealerships of the same manufacturer. They may be more willing to assist with the recall repair, especially if it involves a safety-related issue.
Contact California consumer protection agencies
Report the issue to relevant consumer protection agencies such as the California Attorney General’s office or the Department of Consumer Affairs. They may be able to mediate the situation or take further action against the dealership under California’s consumer protection laws.
File a complaint with NHTSA
Report the dealership’s refusal to address the recall to the NHTSA through their website or hotline. The agency monitors compliance with recalls and can take steps to enforce corrective actions.
If you face trouble with your dealership addressing a recall notice, remember to be persistent, assert your rights as a consumer and leverage available resources to resolve the issue and ensure your safety on the road.