NHTSA proposes requiring electronic notice for recalls

NHTSA proposes requiring electronic notice for recalls

In an effort to increase the recall repair rate, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has proposed requiring automakers to notify vehicle owners electronically. Emails, text messages and social media would all be acceptable, in addition to TV and radio messages. Automakers would still need to send recall notices by first-class mail.

NHTSA Administrator Mark Rosekind has often said heês disappointed with the low recall repair rate. The problem was exacerbated with the Takata airbag recall because a shortage of parts meant in many cases dealers could not do the repair when the recall notices were initially sent.

The notice was published in the Federal Register September 1. The proposed rule was required by the highway reauthorization act passed last year.