Be Smart With Cars

When a Toyota has been recalled, the car company makes it right by offering repair services free of charge. If you've received a card in the mail notifying you that your Toyota vehicle has been recalled, call a local Toyota dealership immediately. Make an appointment with the dealership's service department to have the repairs done as soon as possible.

Why All the Recalls?

Even minor defects in a vehicle's operating system can lead to a recall as the manufacturer constantly works to ensure your safety behind the wheel. When Toyota learns that more than a few cars or trucks are experiencing similar problems, they issue a recall to both warn consumers of the danger, as well as invite affected Toyota owners to bring their vehicle in for repairs. Toyota manufacturers and vehicle designers also use recall information to continuously improve safety as new Toyota cars, SUVs and trucks are made.

What Is the Cost?

When your Toyota is recalled for a specific part, such as the ignition switch, the dealership is obligated to fix the problem at no cost to you. That means that no money exchanges hands, so your car insurance company isn't responsible for the repairs as part of your auto insurance coverage either. The cost is completely the responsibility of the Toyota dealership.

Getting It Done

If your Toyota is included in any of the recalls, call a local dealership right away. Often, wait times for recall repair appointments are scheduled several days or weeks out simply because of the sheer number of people needing to have their Toyota repaired. While the vast majority of the recalls don't pose an immediate threat, it's wise to pay attention to the recalls by getting your vehicle in as soon as possible. Some Toyota dealerships offer extended or weekend repair slots to meet the increased demand when a recall is issued, so be sure to ask about one of these options.

Appointments Made in Order of Importance

Toyota dealerships will also schedule your appointment depending on what specific recall repair you need done. People who fall under more serious recall issues will be given preference. For example, a Toyota owner included in an airbag recall will likely get a more immediate service appointment than someone included in a recall for a minor issue such as faulty sealing on windows. Rest assured, however, that the Toyota dealership will fix your vehicle as soon as possible.