2014 Was a Record Year For Recalls of Defective Autos | DENENA | POINTS

2014 Was a Record Year For Recalls of Defective Autos

2014 Was a Record Year For Recalls of Defective Autos

In this year alone, there were over 700 recalls of defective autos, affecting nearly 60 million vehicles.  Some of those defective autos or parts resulted in deaths, that could have been prevented by higher quality design or manufacturing processes.

A few examples of the auto recalls include:

  • Ignition switches
  • Airbags
  • Faulty alternators
  • Brake malfunctions
  • Fuel system
  • Engine cooling system
  • Suspension
  • Electrical system

Any of these types of recalls could result in a vehicle stalling, being unable to stop, interference with steering or potential explosions.  It is for this reason that the recall system is in place, to allow manufacturers the opportunity to correct defects and restore a level of safe operation.

GM Ignition Switch Recall Tops the LIst

The most notable recall of 2014 was by General Motors that recalled millions of cars with faulty ignition switches.  The switches would slip out of the ‘run’ position and disable power brakes and steering, frequently causing an accident.  The worst part of this recall is that GM knew of the defect for 10 years before issuing the recall.  At least 35 deaths have been blamed on the faulty switches and GM is facing billions of dollars worth of claims from victims.  They have also paid a $35 million fine for the delay.

This is one of the most egregious instances of automaker disregard for the lives of passengers, and demonstrates why the inspection and recall process is so vital.  However, one must question in today’s high tech manufacturing environment, why do recalls continue to rise?

Are Cars More Defective or Is the Recall Process Improved?

It seems unlikely that the auto industry is putting out more defective vehicles than in the past, given the emphasis on design and manufacture for greater vehicle safety.  In the GM case, they covered up a design flaw for obvious financial reasons, but current standards have improved in the past ten years.  The more plausible explanation is the National Highway Safety Traffic Administration has stepped up its inspection and recall process in an effort to improve vehicle safety.

However, just because a vehicle is placed on a recall list does not mean that owner will bring the car in for repair.  In that case, it is difficult for one injured in an accident to blame the automaker.  Although automakers have a duty to make reasonably safe cars, they do not have a duty to make perfectly safe cars.  Owners have a responsibility to make recommended repairs or modifications in a recall, and if they fail to act that could be a barrier to any legal claim arising from an accident.

Recalls play an important role in detecting design or manufacture defects, but can only be effective if the owners comply with the recall.  2014 was either the worst year for vehicle safety by displaying the flaws in cars on the highway, or it was the best year, for identifying potential defects that could have resulted in many accidents and injuries.