Government Finally Discovers Email Exists for Car Recalls
Published Date: 1/10/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is updating how car recall notices are sent. Besides regular mail, companies can now notify owners electronically, making it faster and easier to get important safety info. These changes start about a year after the final rule is published, giving everyone time to adjust without extra costs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 6 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Electronic Recall Notices Required
NHTSA proposes that manufacturers must send recall notices to owners and purchasers by electronic means in addition to first-class mail for every recall. This requirement covers both initial interim (if used) and final recall notifications to owners, purchasers, and lessees.
Two-Tiered Electronic Notification Method
Manufacturers must first use all reasonable efforts to notify owners and purchasers directly using owner-specific contact information (for example, email or phone). If some owners cannot be reached that way, manufacturers must also issue broader electronic notifications reasonably calculated to reach those people (for example, social media, radio, television, infotainment messages, or targeted online campaigns).
Flexible Electronic Notice Content and VIN Links
The rule would let electronic recall messages be more flexible in content: the message must not be inconsistent with 49 U.S.C. 30119, but need not include the full text of the mailed notice, and a hyperlink to a representative copy is required only where practical. Electronic notices must direct recipients to either NHTSA's VIN search tool or the manufacturer's VIN search tool.
Timing for Electronic Rule Compliance
NHTSA proposes that the electronic notification requirement would apply to recalls filed one year or later after the final rule is published in the Federal Register. Manufacturers may choose to comply earlier if they wish.
Stronger Envelope and Letter Headings
NHTSA proposes changing the required wording on recall mailings from "SAFETY RECALL NOTICE" and "IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL" to the wording "URGENT SAFETY RECALL" on both the outside of the envelope and at the top of the owner notification letter.
Owner Website Direction Updated
NHTSA proposes updating the recall website referenced in notices: manufacturers would direct owners to "http://www.nhtsa.gov" instead of "http://www.safercar.gov" for recall information.
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