Vehicle recalls have surged tenfold in three decades

Recent analysis by The Car Expert has revealed that the number of recalls has increased more than tenfold compared to 1994 figures from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).

The surge in recalls underscores the growing complexity of modern vehicles and the importance of keeping up with maintenance and repair protocols.

The surge has prompted the automotive consumer advice platform to integrate recall data into its Expert Rating Index, helping drivers and buyers stay informed about recall issues and their potential risks.

In the first eight months of 2024, nearly 1.1 million cars (and almost 1.2 million vehicles in total) were recalled by the DVSA. This marks a dramatic rise compared to the 27 passenger car recalls issued in 1994.

The Car Expert predicts that up to 1.8 million cars could be recalled by the end of 2024, with 260 recall notices anticipated for the year.

Recalls can cover a range of safety concerns, from minor adjustments to severe issues that lead to "Stop Drive" orders.

While the DVSA only issues recalls for safety-related issues, non-safety problems can result in voluntary recalls. The BMW Group, for instance, recently recalled 1.5 million cars globally for a braking issue, a repair operation expected to cost the company $1 billion, impacting its market value.

In the UK, Mercedes-Benz has already recalled over 337,000 passenger cars in 2024, covering vehicles up to six years old. Notably, some of the oldest cars affected by recalls this year include Audi A4 models dating back to 2004.

To help drivers navigate the recall process, The Car Expert has integrated DVSA recall data into its Expert Rating Index, providing users with detailed recall information for nearly 550 cars from 55 manufacturers. This comprehensive tool includes data on Euro NCAP safety scores, reliability information, and five-year running costs.

Stuart Masson, editorial director at The Car Expert, said: "Recalls in the UK are serious, as they usually indicate safety concerns. With the growing number of recalls, it's vital that drivers stay informed.

“By integrating recall data into our platform, we’re ensuring that vehicle owners can easily check if their car has been recalled and whether the necessary repairs have been completed."

The platform’s addition of recall data aligns with its mission to help consumers make informed decisions about their current and future vehicle purchases, ultimately enhancing road safety by promoting timely repairs.

So far in 2024, 41 car manufacturers have issued recalls, affecting brands across the spectrum, from budget-friendly options like Dacia and Fiat to luxury names like Rolls-Royce and Koenigsegg.