If your car keeps having recall issues, a Santa Monica lemon law lawyer can help you understand your rights. Millions of vehicles are recalled each year for safety or mechanical problems, and some defects can make your car unsafe to drive. Here are the top five most common auto recalls drivers should know about.
Every year, millions of vehicles across the U.S. are recalled for safety or mechanical issues, and California drivers are often among those affected. While some recalls involve minor defects, others can pose serious dangers to you and your passengers. Knowing which recalls are most common can help you stay safe and protect your rights if your vehicle turns out to be defective.
If your car has been recalled multiple times or you’ve experienced repeated issues that dealers can’t fix, you may also qualify for relief under California’s Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, which contains the California Lemon Law.
Here are five of the most common types of auto recalls you should be aware of.
1. Airbag Failures
Airbag recalls have affected tens of millions of vehicles over the last decade, with the most notorious example being the Takata airbag recall. These defective airbags could explode or fail to deploy properly, causing severe injuries and potentially even death.
Manufacturers are legally required to notify vehicle owners of airbag defects and repair them free of charge. However, if repeated airbag issues make your car unsafe or undrivable, it may also qualify as a lemon.
2. Brake System Defects
Faulty brakes are one of the most dangerous and commonly reported recall problems. Issues may include fluid leaks, malfunctioning brake boosters, and electronic braking system failures.
If you’ve experienced one of these issues or something similar, it’s crucial to get your vehicle inspected immediately. In California, repeated brake-related repairs could support a lemon law claim if the defect continues despite multiple service attempts.
3. Steering and Suspension Issues
Steering and suspension defects can make a car virtually impossible to control. These recalls often involve problems like:
- Power steering failure
- Broken tie rods or control arms
- Steering column malfunctions
- Suspension parts detaching while driving
Defects like these can dramatically increase the risk of accidents, especially at higher speeds. Fortunately, California law protects you if these recurring mechanical issues make your vehicle unsafe for everyday use.
4. Electrical System Malfunctions
Electrical problems are among the most frequent reasons for vehicle recalls. They can cause anything from dead batteries and malfunctioning sensors to total power loss while driving.
A failing electrical system can also affect safety features like headlights, airbags, and power steering. If your vehicle’s electrical issues persist after repairs, you may have legal grounds to pursue a lemon law claim.
5. Engine and Fuel System Defects
Engine and fuel-related recalls often involve problems that can cause a car to shut down unexpectedly. Some vehicles are also recalled for fuel tank and/or line defects that could create a fire risk.
As defects with these systems can dramatically impact a vehicle’s safety, there is a strong chance you have a claim if one applies to your car and it hasn’t been fixed after multiple attempts.
Contact a Lemon Lawyer With My Lemon Firm for Help
When a recall continues to affect your car’s safety, value, or usability, it may be time to speak with a California lemon law attorney. You could be entitled to a financial remedy, such as a replacement vehicle, and the manufacturer, not you, may be responsible for paying your legal fees as well.
Contact My Lemon Firm today by calling (844) 40-Lemon or online for a free consultation. Our experienced Santa Monica legal team has helped California drivers recover substantial compensation for defective vehicles and can help you do the same.