The New York Times reports on the year’s record number of automobile recalls, with a focus on the GM ignition switch defect and the learning opportunity it offered other manufacturers. The piece highlights that the NHTSA is receiving twice its annual average in consumer complaints, is putting increasing pressure on automakers, and has created an app to directly inform consumers about recall information pertaining to their vehicle. The piece also includes comments from temporary NHTSA chief David Friedman on efforts to increase industry safety.
Majority of recalled vehicles go without repairs. The Los Angeles Times reports as many as 35 million of the 60 million vehicles recalled this year have not been repaired. The piece details the repair rates of various auto manufacturers and many of the fatalities associated with defects prompting the recalls. The piece features extensive commentary from NHTSA deputy administrator David Friedman, and includes the fact that the NHTSA compiles repair rate data for only 18 months following a recall announcement. NHTSA efforts to increase recalls are discussed as well as calls for state departments of motor vehicles to have “a digital tie-in to NHTSA’s Federal database” to track repairs.
From the news release of the American Association for Justice.
