Figures obtained via the Freedom of Information Act have revealed that over 3.2 million cars and light commercial vehicles, subject to safety recalls between 2018 and 2023, were not rectified by franchise dealers. ADS (Auto Data Solutions) warns that the actual number of unchecked vehicles is likely higher.
Manufacturers typically notify affected customers by post, but many dealers only address recalls during routine servicing. With extended service intervals, particularly for electric vehicles, and customers servicing vehicles elsewhere, many recalls remain unaddressed. Changes of address and overlooked notifications also contribute to the problem.
ADS attributes the issue to poor customer database management by franchise dealers, leading to lost contact with original customers. This lack of contact not only misses potential business but also poses safety risks.
ADS has also warned of potential MOT rule changes, which could make uncorrected recalls an automatic failure, leading to a surge in demand for dealer workshops.
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency provided the following figures for outstanding safety recalls:
- 2018: 729,876 (of 4,117,940 recalls)
- 2019: 422,729 (of 2,191,143 recalls)
- 2020: 467,345 (of 2,130,692 recalls)
- 2021: 498,381 (of 2,856,141 recalls)
- 2022: 739,705 (of 2,211,061 recalls)
- 2023: 394,660 (of 1,373,258 recalls)
ADS stress the importance of dealers maintaining accurate customer databases to ensure safety recalls are addressed and to improve customer relationships. They also note the potential for increased business through recall-related servicing.
Source: Auto Data Solutions
