Recent analysis by The Car Expert has revealed that the number of recalls has increased more than tenfold compared to 1994 figures from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). This surge underscores the growing complexity of modern vehicles and the importance of keeping up with maintenance and repair protocols. The surge has prompted the automotive consumer advice platform to integrate recall data into its Expert Rating Index, helping drivers and buyers stay informed about recall issues and their potential risks.
In the first eight months of 2024, nearly 1.1 million cars (and almost 1.2 million vehicles in total) were recalled by the DVSA. This marks a dramatic rise compared to the 27 passenger car recalls issued in 1994. The Car Expert predicts that up to 1.8 million cars could be recalled by the end of 2024, with 260 recall notices anticipated for the year.
Recalls can cover a range of safety concerns, from minor adjustments to severe issues that lead to "Stop Drive" orders. While the DVSA only issues recalls for safety-related issues, non-safety problems can result in voluntary recalls. The BMW Group, for instance, recently recalled 1.5 million cars globally for a braking issue, a repair operation expected to cost the company $1 billion, impacting its market value.
In the UK, Mercedes-Benz has already recalled over 337,000 passenger cars in 2024, covering vehicles up to six years old. Notably, some of the oldest cars affected by recalls this year include Audi A4 models dating back to 2004.
To help drivers navigate the recall process, The Car Expert has integrated DVSA recall data into its Expert Rating Index, providing users with detailed recall information for nearly 550 cars from 55 manufacturers. This comprehensive tool includes data on Euro NCAP safety scores, reliability information, and five-year running costs.
Stuart Masson, editorial director at The Car Expert, said: "Recalls in the UK are serious, as they usually indicate safety concerns. With the growing number of recalls, it's vital that drivers stay informed.
“By integrating recall data into our platform, we’re ensuring that vehicle owners can easily check if their car has been recalled and whether the necessary repairs have been completed."
The platform’s addition of recall data aligns with its mission to help consumers make informed decisions about their current and future vehicle purchases, ultimately enhancing road safety by promoting timely repairs.
What To Do If Your Car Has Been Recalled
It’s important to check if your car has been recalled and if it has, to get the repairs done as soon as possible. You can check if your car has been recalled by using the DVSA’s online vehicle recall checker.
The DVSA will contact you directly if your car has been recalled, but it’s always a good idea to check yourself. If your car has been recalled, you will need to take it to a dealer or garage to have the repairs carried out. The repairs will be free of charge, and you will not need to pay for any parts or labor.
Why Are There So Many Recalls?
There are a number of reasons why there have been so many recalls in recent years. One reason is that cars are becoming more complex, with more electronic systems and software. This makes it more difficult for manufacturers to identify and fix potential problems.
Another reason is that there is more pressure on manufacturers to meet emissions regulations. This can lead to them making changes to their vehicles that can sometimes introduce new problems.
Finally, consumers are becoming more aware of safety issues, and they are more likely to report problems to manufacturers. This has led to more recalls being issued, even for minor problems.
What Does The Future Hold For Car Recalls?
It is likely that the number of car recalls will continue to increase in the coming years. As cars become even more complex, there will be more opportunities for problems to arise. However, this doesn’t mean that consumers should be worried about driving their cars. The DVSA is working hard to ensure that all recalls are addressed promptly and that drivers are kept safe.
The Bottom Line: Stay Informed
The surge in recalls underscores the evolving nature of modern vehicles. By remaining informed and taking prompt action when necessary, drivers can contribute to road safety and ensure their vehicles are operating at peak performance. The Car Expert’s initiative to integrate recall data into its platform serves as a valuable resource, empowering consumers to make informed decisions and prioritize safety in their driving experiences.
