Recall alert: 155,000 drivers ignore safety warnings!

Recall alert: 155,000 drivers ignore safety warnings!

Safety on our roads is of paramount importance and the Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) has carried out a remarkable recall questionnaire in recent years. In 2024, 155,000 cars lost their registration because owners did not respond to important recalls. This information can be found at Ruhr24, where it is also reported that the KBA ordered a total of 2.84 million recalls due to safety defects.

These recall letters are not just formal letters. They provide information about safety or environmentally relevant defects, such as problems with airbags, brakes and exhaust systems. Manufacturers are legally obliged to inform the KBA about such defects and to send recall letters to vehicle owners. Ignoring these recalls can have serious consequences - from loss of registration to fines and points in Flensburg. This can also result in the surrender of license plates and the removal of the TÜV sticker.

Fast action is required

Anyone who does not respond to reminder letters must expect further action. The KBA informs the local registration authority, which then prohibits further travel. It is therefore advisable to make an appointment at a workshop immediately. As a rule, the manufacturers cover the repair costs. Although there is no legal right to a rental car during repairs, some manufacturers offer this service.

The situation of used car owners is also frightening, as they are often not informed about recalls because many manufacturers do not have the current addresses of the owners. And here too it is worth taking a look at the KBA recall database to check affected vehicles. It is advisable to specifically ask about open recalls during regular inspections to avoid unpleasant surprises.

How does the recall process work?

The KBA becomes aware of problems through its own product tests in laboratories or through reports from manufacturers and information from the public. In the event of serious dangers, the KBA demands quick remedial action from manufacturers. In addition to the formal recall measures, the KBA is also responsible for monitoring these actions and again calls on non-cooperating owners to take part.

The KBA follows several steps: First, an investigation is carried out in the event of critical reports, followed by a recall campaign, and finally decommissioning if owners do not react. Owner addresses are only provided in the case of really serious defects - this is an important regulation for data protection reasons. If you have any doubts about road safety, it is recommended to contact the manufacturer or an authorized workshop directly.

Overall, it shows how important it is to follow your own reports and get in touch with the KBA or the manufacturer. Even if you feel safe, it's worth taking a look at the recall database to be on the safe side.