What Happens if Car is Recalled and Can’t be Fixed?

 

An automobile defect is where a part or system of the vehicle does not perform as designed and isn't safe for drivers. Several manufacturing automotive defects occur in cars all over the world. Some require temporary treatment, while some take longer to fix or cannot be fixed. For such reasons, manufacturers may recall an automobile to evaluate and fix the defect. But what happens if they cannot solve the problem? This guide here will guide you on what to do when your car is recalled and cannot be fixed.

The Recall and Fixes

When a vehicle is being recalled. The distributors will call out all the owners and inform them about the defect. In the recall message, the manufacturer gives the owner the option to either bring the vehicle back for repair or get a refund instead.

If you take it back for repair, they will replace and or fix the part and let the owner take the vehicle back. The manufacturer usually resolves the recall issue and fixes the vehicle back for safe operation. Such repairs and fixes are done free of charge. It is the right of the owner to get free of cost repair for the recall fixes.

Injury or Damage

In case the manufacturer fails to fix the problem, or the problem occurs again after some time. The manufacturer will again be liable for the fixes. If the defective issues cause harm or injury to the owner of the vehicle. The owner of the vehicle can again call the manufacturer for a free repair. For the injury and damage repairs. The company may make an out of court settlement with the owner and bear all the financial expenses which may also include medical bills. If the manufacturer fails to do that. The owner can file a lawsuit against the manufacturer as it is their legal right. Since such injuries caused by the defect in the vehicle is the sole responsibility of the manufacturer.

What if the Defect Can’t be Fixed?

If the defect takes longer to fix or cannot be fixed. The manufacturer may offer an owner either a replacement or pay them back. In such cases, it is up to the owner to make a choice. However, if the manufacturer cannot fix the vehicle or is not willing to solve or insists on taking the vehicle and the owner gets harmed in an accident caused by the defect. The manufacturer can be in serious trouble for such negligence.

Read also: 6 Signs that Tell It's Time to Repair Car Engine

Usually, there are three options left with the owner.

1. To get the vehicle repaired
2. To get a replacement of the vehicle
3. To get a refund of the payment.

These three options are only available if the manufacturer is cooperative enough. If the manufacturer doesn't give you any of the above options. It is your right to file a lawsuit against them and get your claim. Usually, in such cases, you should insist on getting a refund for your vehicle. Since driving a defective vehicle is not safe.

Similar can be the case if you get your car repaired by a local mechanic. Such incidents occur where car engine rebuilders do take money from the vehicle owners and do not provide quality service. A vehicle may cause harm or damage to you in such a case. Yet again, it is your right to file a claim against them and get compensation for your loss.