What is a Recall?

A recall is a process in which the supplier:

1. Identifies which batch of goods may have a safety defect;
2. Advertises this and/or writes to owners; and
3. Rectifies the safety defect free of charge.

The manufacturer or supplier is actively seeking owners of vehicles. This is usually in the form of normal and/or registered letters to known owners and, if necessary, advertising and seeking current ownership details from registration authorities.

Inactive

Vehicles are required to have some form of identification to show that it has been inspected or rectified under a recall campaign. The most common form is a sticker attached to the vehicle frame with the manufacturer's campaign number marked on it. Recall identification can vary between types of vehicles.

In passenger cars the sticker is required to be attached to the 'A' or 'B' pillar. To locate the sticker, open the drivers side door, the 'A' pillar is where the door attaches at the hinge and the 'B' pillar is on the lock side.

Motorcycles are required to have a sticker attached to the frame under the seat.

What should I do if I think my vehicle may be affected by a safety related recall?

Take it to any authorised (or franchised) dealer for that make and model. You should refer to the manufacturer's campaign number when approaching dealers or retailers about specific recalls.

If the recalled item is a tyre, component or vehicle accessory, please take it to the dealer or retailer. You should take a print or copy of the recall details to show the dealer or retailer.

Where can I find a copy of the Commonwealth's Codes of Practice for voluntary recalls?

'Procedures for the Recall of Vehicles and Associated Products with Safety Related Defects'
- browse an online version
- download a copy in Adobe Acrobat format (81Kb)

For vehicles supplied by a Registered Automotive Workshop (these vehicles have been fitted with a magenta coloured Used Import Plate):

'Procedures for the Recall of Vehicles and Associated Products with Safety Related Defects by Registered Automotive Workshops'
- browse an online version
- download a copy in Adobe Acrobat format (300Kb)

Please contact the Department of Transport and Regional Services for a printed copy of either Code.