Can You be Charged for Work Related to a Recall ?
Among the inspections and verifications that should be done before buying a used vehicle, recalls should not be overlooked. These are issued by the car manufacturers for safety reasons, after all!
Any problem that is the subject of a recall should be addressed as soon as possible to ensure that the vehicle can continue to run properly in the short and long term.
To find out what recalls may have been issued for a given model, simply visit the manufacturer's website or Transport Canada's recall database.
However, to make sure that the recall applies to a specific vehicle, pull out the 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The VIN is located on the bottom of the windshield and inside of the driver's side door.
Charge or No Charge?
Canada's Motor Vehicle Safety Act (MVSA) does not require vehicle manufacturers to cover expenses for recalls. However, out of respect for customers and to maintain a good image, it is very rare for them to actually invoice a customer for a recall.
After all, the potentially defective parts that need to be inspected and the ones that need to be repaired or replaced are the results of an error made by the manufacturer (or one of its suppliers) and not the result of negligence or poor maintenance by the owner.
What could be charged, for example? In some cases, the owner may be charged for labour costs. On the other hand, if you need transportation, a dealership may decide to reimburse you for your cab ride or rental car, or even provide you with a shuttle service.
Finally, you should know that the MVSA states that an owner of a vehicle affected by a recall is not obligated to follow up. Approximately 25% of all recall notices in North America are not followed up. As mentioned earlier, however, it is a risk you shouldn't take, for your safety and the safety of others.