According to Carfax, approximately one in five vehicles on Canadian roads have safety recalls, meaning the model’s vehicle manufacturer has identified a potential safety risk. However, many drivers are unaware that their car is affected.

What is a Vehicle Recall?

Recalls are safety related and can be issued to notify registered owners there may be a defect in one (or more) components of their vehicle. This can include defects in batteries, airbags, brakes, seatbelts, and more. The vehicle manufacturer is required to issue a recall notice to the vehicle’s owner if a safety defect has been determined on a specific make or model. The manufacturer must also tell the vehicle owner how the problem can be corrected.

Recalls often come from vehicle manufacturers directly. However, in 2018, the passage of the Strengthening Motor Vehicle Safety for Canadians Act, Bill S-2, provided the Minister of Transport with new safety powers, to enforce safety standards by ordering a manufacturer to recall a vehicle and pay for the cost of repairs.

Who is Responsible For a Recall?

The car manufacturer will inform you about the necessary car safety checks. However, it is your responsibility to schedule the service at your dealership’s service department. The good news is that the manufacturer will pay to repair the defect of the vehicle equipment. We strongly recommend getting the repair done as quickly as possible.

How do I find out if my car has a recall in Canada? If you have an open recall, you will receive a letter from the manufacturer. And if you want to stay up-to-date on car recalls, you can also check out Carfax’s Safety Recall Check by entering your vehicle’s vehicle identification number.

If you purchased a used vehicle, you should register the purchase with the vehicle’s manufacturer so that you receive recall letters in the future.

Another smart way to find out about recalls? Allstate Canada makes best efforts to send an automatic email to their auto insurance customers who have a vehicle that may be included in a recall.*

Allstate wants to help ensure your safety comes first and that you have all the necessary information about vehicle recalls that affect the safety of you and your family.

 

*Allstate Canada sources recall information from Transport Canada, Allstate does not warrant the accuracy of any information. It is recommended that owners contact their vehicle manufacturer or preferred dealer to verify recall information and the applicability to their vehicle. Your insurance policy including terms and conditions along with local law will govern.

This information has been provided for your convenience only and should not be construed as providing legal or insurance advice.