More Automobile Recalls, Better Technology

New car and light truck recalls have been announced every few for the past two years, despite vehicles being better engineered and safer than ever before. In fact, the number of annual recalls doubles the rate of two decades ago. But if technology is getting better, then why are companies recalling more vehicles?

A recent Automotive News article argues that the higher number or recalls has to do with several factors: higher consumer safety standards, greater vigilance by manufacturers and regulators, and the power of the Internet.

Consumers can leave reviews online and correspond with others who have had similar issues with their vehicles, which can create quickly turn into a massive conversation that grabs the attention of auto safety regulators. While the narrative about car defects and recalls was left to the manufacturer in the pre-Internet days, car owners can now use the web to raise questions and urge automakers to fix big problems.

At the same time, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is setting up a new online database for customers to find out about recalls.

Thanks to the Internet, consumers have a chance to learn about potential defects involving their vehicles’ specific make and model, which can save lives and prevent defect-related accidents on the roadways. They can also find out what to do in the event of a vehicle product failure and how to hire an auto accident lawyer.