A recent study by CarVertical has found that a concerning number of UK cars recalled due to safety or mechanical defects remain on the road unrepaired. The analysis of vehicle history reports from January 2023 to September 2024 revealed that only 28% of recalled vehicles in the UK had their defects fixed, leaving nearly three-quarters with unresolved issues.
Many of these unresolved recalls involve critical safety components like airbags, brakes, and electrical systems, posing significant safety risks to drivers and passengers. Despite the UK having the lowest recall rate (3.1%) among the 26 countries studied, the high proportion of unresolved recalls is alarming.
The analysis suggests that UK drivers may be unaware of their vehicle’s recall status or the importance of addressing the issue. This lack of awareness is evident in the continued presence of cars with dangerous defects, such as faulty Takata airbags, on the used car market.
Recall resolution rates across Europe vary significantly, with countries like Greece achieving a 50% resolution rate compared to the UK’s low rate. This highlights the need for greater awareness among UK drivers and improved processes for recall communication and repairs to enhance road safety and reduce risks associated with vehicles that remain on the road despite known problems.
Source www.fleetnews.co.uk
