Recalls are a reality in the automotive industry, and that’s a good thing. This is how vehicle manufacturers address safety concerns or defects to protect consumers.
Car recall statistics from AutoInsurance.com indicate that roughly 21 million vehicles in the U.S. were recalled in 2024. Chances are, you’ll be impacted by one in the near future (if you haven’t already been).
Last year, several prominent car brands issued safety recalls, ranging from minor inconveniences to significant safety issues. These car recalls highlight the importance of staying informed so you can protect your rights as a car owner and address potential safety concerns promptly.
At Cline APC, we are committed to holding vehicle manufacturers accountable for releasing defective vehicles. We help clients understand their options and seek resolutions if a recalled vehicle impacts their safety or finances.
Below, our attorneys dive into 10 car brands that issued safety recalls this year. Check to see if your car might be at risk.
1. Ford
Ford Motor Company recalled thousands of vehicles in 2024 due to various issues. These included malfunctioning wiper motors, air bags, faulty rearview cameras, and problems with the braking system that could compromise stopping power.
Additionally, Ford recalled over 90,000 trucks and SUVs due to intake valve breaking (Fox Business). To address these issues, Ford contacted owners and provided free repairs to restore vehicle security.
2. Chevrolet
Under General Motors, Chevrolet’s safety recalls in 2024 affected multiple models due to tailgate unlatching issues, wheel lockups, and other concerns.
Chevrolet’s safety recall campaigns also extended to problems with brake performance in its pickup trucks, underscoring this car manufacturer’s ongoing commitment to addressing safety concerns head-on.
3. Toyota
Toyota issued recalls this year, with problems ranging from potential braking issues to broken steering shafts, equipment issues, and faulty brake assists.
Additionally, select hybrid Toyota models were recalled for vehicle tow hitch cover problems. Toyota encouraged affected vehicle owners to visit their dealerships for repairs at no cost.
4. Tesla
Tesla’s vehicle recalls in 2024 primarily revolved around software glitches in their advanced driver-assistance systems, which included unintended braking and misaligned lane detection.
While many of these issues were resolved through over-the-air updates, some physical repairs on electric vehicles were required, particularly for the Model S and Model X.
Tesla also addressed problems with its new Cybertruck, issuing recalls for brake issues, windshield wiper motors, the trunk-bed trim’s sail applique, and more.
5. Hyundai
Hyundai’s car recalls this year involved transmission issues and charging control unit problems that affected both sedans and SUVs.
Additionally, certain models faced safety recalls due to faulty seatbelt pre-tensioners, which could deploy incorrectly during accidents. Hyundai worked to resolve these problems quickly, urging customers to bring their vehicles in for service and repair to maintain safety.
6. Kia
Kia, closely related to Hyundai, is well known for producing some of the safest cars. U.S. News & World Report recently shared that it has a 9.6 overall safety score.
However, this auto manufacturer issued car recalls for potential power issues in thousands of electric vehicles, as well as possible defects in Integrated Charing Control Units (ICCUs).
Kia’s vehicle recall notices further extended to SUVs with sunroof malfunctions, which could detach and create hazards for both drivers and other road users.
7. Honda
Honda continued to face challenges related to defective air bag inflators, a widespread problem that has impacted the industry for years. This year, Honda’s recalls also included vehicles with potential fuel leaks.
Additionally, certain models were flagged for engine oil leaks that could lead to engine failure if left unaddressed.
8. Nissan
Nissan issued vehicle recalls in 2024 for widespread defects regarding a risk of steering loss. Moreover, Nissan issued recall notices to address concerns related to faulty rearview cameras and windshield wipers that could fail during heavy rain, both of which significantly impacted driver visibility.
9. Volkswagen
Volkswagen recall notices this year predominantly involved problems with airbag safety and doors opening unexpectedly while driving. Additionally, certain Volkswagen models experienced emissions system issues, requiring adjustments to comply with regulatory standards.
10. Jeep
Jeep, a brand under Stellantis, faced significant recall issues in 2024 due to potential fire hazards. The recall impacted more than 132,000 Jeep Cherokee SUVs manufactured between 2014 and 2016.
The problem stems from an electrical short in the power liftgate module, which could potentially catch fire—even when the vehicle is parked and turned off. Stellantis has advised affected owners to park their vehicles away from structures and other vehicles as a precautionary measure.
This is the second fire-related recall for Jeep Cherokee vehicles, highlighting a recurring issue that Stellantis is addressing.
Steps to Take If You Have a Recalled Vehicle
If your vehicle is part of a safety recall (one listed above or other), we recommend that you address the issue promptly to meet minimum safety standards and comply with manufacturer guidelines.
Here’s what to do:
1. Check Your VIN
Locate your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and use it to check if your car is affected by a recall campaign. Most automakers provide an online tool for this, or you can check on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website.
2. Contact the Dealership
Once you confirm your car is part of a vehicle recall, reach out to your local dealership to schedule an appointment for repairs. Most recall-related fixes are provided free of charge.
3. Follow Up
After the repairs are completed, retain all documentation as proof of compliance. This can be useful if you experience ongoing issues with the recalled vehicle.
When Vehicle Recalls Are Not Enough: California Lemon Law Protections
While car recalls in 2024 may have addressed specific defects, some vehicles may continue to experience unresolved problems even after multiple repair attempts.
Under California’s Lemon Law, you have rights as a consumer if your car is deemed a “lemon.” This applies to vehicles that have been repeatedly repaired for the same issue or have been out of service for an extended period due to defects.
If you suspect your recalled vehicle qualifies as a lemon, you may be entitled to a replacement, refund, or cash settlement from the auto manufacturer or dealership. Seeking professional guidance can help you understand your options and determine the best course of action.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recalls
Q1. Which car manufacturer has the highest total recall number?
Ford Motor Company is one of the leading car manufacturers in terms of total recalls. Over the years, Ford has issued numerous recalls, many of which were precautionary measures to address potential safety concerns.
It’s important to note that recalls aren’t always an indicator of poor manufacturing quality; they often reflect a company’s willingness to take responsibility for potential issues.
Q2. Do repairs for car recalls have to be done at the dealership?
No, repairs for car recalls do not always have to be done at the dealership where you purchased the vehicle. However, recall repairs must be performed by an authorized service center for that specific manufacturer. This is because these facilities have access to the tools, training, and parts necessary to fix the issue according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Whether it’s the dealership where you purchased your car or another authorized location, the recall repair will be performed free of charge to the vehicle owner.
Q3. Can you get a loaner car due to a vehicle recall?
In some cases, manufacturers or dealerships may provide a loaner car if a recall repair significantly disrupts your ability to use your vehicle. This is more common when the repair requires extended time, or if the issue makes the car unsafe to drive until it is fixed.
For example, recalls involving airbags or engine-related safety issues might warrant providing a loaner car to ensure customer convenience and safety. However, loaner availability depends on the manufacturer’s policy and the nature of the recall.
To determine if you’re eligible for a loaner car, check your recall notification or contact the dealership handling your repair.
Q4. How long do recalls typically take to fix?
The time it takes to complete a recall repair varies based on the severity of the issue and the availability of replacement parts. Some repairs, like software updates, can be completed in under an hour, while others, such as replacing major components, may take days.
In rare cases, parts shortages can lead to delays, but manufacturers usually prioritize urgent safety-related recalls to minimize inconvenience for customers.
Learn More About Your Rights as a Vehicle Owner
We know that persistent car troubles can be frustrating and time-consuming. If you’re dealing with ongoing issues despite total recall repairs, get in touch with Cline APC to explore your legal options.
While dealerships are obligated to address recall-related issues at no cost to the consumer, ongoing issues may indicate deeper problems that require further attention. Under federal regulations, car manufacturers are required to ensure that recall repairs are both effective and timely.
If your vehicle continues to experience the same issues, you may have the right to further compensation or replacement under California Lemon Law.
Our La Jolla firm is here to help vehicle owners navigate the process and seek the resolution they deserve. We’ll guide you through the legal process to ensure that the manufacturer or dealership is held accountable and that you receive the appropriate remedy for your car troubles.
Get in touch with our team today.
