You discovered that your vehicle has a recall, now what? It can be surprising finding out about a vehicle recall, but it’s important to know that recalls are issued to ensure your safety. We’ll walk you through what to do when your vehicle has a recall, with a step-by-step guide on how to navigate the process at Birchwood!
Step 1: Confirm the Recall
The first step when you receive a recall notice is to confirm that your vehicle is affected. You can do this by checking the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) against the recall information provided by the manufacturer. Here’s how:
Use Your VIN: Your VIN is a unique 17-character code that can be found on the driver’s side dashboard, inside the driver’s side door, or on your vehicle’s registration documents. You can use this number to search for recalls on websites like National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the manufacturer’s website.
Contact Birchwood: If you’re unsure whether your vehicle is part of a recall, you can reach out to us! Our team of expert technicians can help you verify any active recalls by checking your VIN in our system.
Step 2: Understand the Recall Details
Once you’ve confirmed that your vehicle is affected by a recall, it’s important to understand what the recall entails. The recall notice should include:
The Issue: A description of the defect or safety issue.
The Risk: Information on how the defect could affect your safety or vehicle performance.
The Solution: Details on what repairs or replacements will be provided to resolve the issue.
Instructions: Steps you need to take to get your vehicle repaired, including any timeframes.
If you have any questions about the recall, our team at Birchwood is here to help explain the details and what they mean for you!
Step 3: Schedule Your Recall Service
After understanding the recall details, the next step is to schedule a service appointment to address the recall. At Birchwood, we strive to make this process as convenient as possible:
Online Booking: You can easily schedule your recall service online through the Birchwood website. Choose a time that works best for you at one of our locations!
Contact Us Directly: If you prefer, you can also call or visit one of our service centers to book an appointment. Our staff will help you find a convenient time to bring in your vehicle.
Vehicle Inspection: While your vehicle is in for recall service, we offer a complimentary multi-point inspection to ensure your vehicle is in top condition.
Step 4: Bring Your Vehicle to Birchwood
On the day of your appointment, bring your vehicle to the scheduled Birchwood location. Here’s what you can expect:
Complimentary Services: Birchwood offers several complimentary services to make your recall visit hassle-free. Enjoy a free car wash and Uber ride to get you to your next destination.
Direct Messaging: Stay informed about the status of your recall service by messaging directly with your Service Advisor. You’ll receive updates, reports, and confirmation of the work being done.
Personalized Video: Our technicians will provide you with a personalized video showing the issue and the work being done, so you know exactly what’s happening with your vehicle.
Step 5: Complete Your Service
Once the recall repairs are complete, you’ll be notified that your vehicle is ready for pickup. At Birchwood, we offer free recall repairs.
CarFax Report: We’ll provide you with a CarFax report detailing the service performed, giving you peace of mind that the recall has been properly addressed.
Step 6: Drive with Confidence
After your recall service, you can drive away with confidence knowing that your vehicle has been repaired and is safe to drive. Regularly check for any future recalls and continue with routine maintenance to keep your vehicle in optimal condition.
Vehicle recalls are an essential part of maintaining safety and performance on the road. By promptly addressing any recalls and following the steps outlined above, you can ensure your vehicle remains safe and reliable. At Birchwood, we are committed to providing exceptional service and support throughout the recall process. Whether you need help verifying a recall, scheduling a service appointment, or understanding the details, our team is here to assist you every step of the way.
If you’ve received a recall notice or suspect your vehicle may be affected, don’t hesitate to contact us!
