RecallGuide.ca

    Are Recall Repairs Always Free in Canada?

    The short answer is yes—vehicle recall repairs in Canada are always free. This guide explains your rights, what happens when parts are delayed, and how to handle unusual situations.

    Your Rights in Canada

    Under the Motor Vehicle Safety Act, vehicle manufacturers in Canada are legally required to fix safety-related defects at no cost to the vehicle owner. This applies to:

    • Cars, trucks, SUVs, and motorcycles
    • Child car seats and booster seats
    • Tires (when recalled for safety defects)
    • Vehicle components and accessories

    This right exists regardless of whether you're the original owner, whether the vehicle is under warranty, or how old the vehicle is. You can check current vehicle recalls to see if your vehicle is affected.

    Key Point

    There is no time limit on safety recall repairs. Even vehicles 15+ years old are eligible for free recall repairs as long as parts are available.

    What's Covered (and What's Not)

    Always Free

    • • Recall-related parts
    • • Labour for the repair
    • • Diagnostic testing
    • • Related damage caused by the defect
    • • Follow-up inspections

    Not Covered

    • • Unrelated maintenance
    • • Normal wear items
    • • Damage from owner modifications
    • • Service bulletins (voluntary, not recalls)
    • • Cosmetic issues unrelated to safety

    If a dealer tries to bundle other services with your recall repair, you have the right to decline. The recall repair itself must be performed free of charge regardless of any other services.

    When Parts Are Delayed

    Sometimes recall parts aren't immediately available. This can happen with major recalls affecting millions of vehicles. Here's what you should know:

    Ask for a timeline

    The dealer should be able to tell you when parts are expected and add you to a waiting list.

    Request interim measures

    For serious safety issues, ask about loaner vehicles or rental car reimbursement until parts arrive.

    Follow safety guidance

    The recall notice may include temporary safety advice (e.g., "don't park in enclosed spaces" for fire risks).

    Escalate if needed

    Contact the manufacturer's customer service directly if delays seem unreasonable. Document all communication.

    Learn more about the difference between recalls and service bulletins to understand your options.

    Getting Reimbursed for Past Repairs

    If you paid out-of-pocket for a repair that was later covered by a recall, you may be eligible for reimbursement. Here's how to pursue it:

    1. 1
      Gather your documentation

      Collect repair receipts, invoices, and any service records.

    2. 2
      Contact the manufacturer

      Call the manufacturer's customer service line (not just the dealer).

    3. 3
      Submit a reimbursement request

      Follow their process, which may involve mailing documents or using an online portal.

    4. 4
      Follow up

      Reimbursement processing can take 4-8 weeks. Keep records of all correspondence.

    How to Get Your Recall Repair Done

    1. 1
      Check if your vehicle is recalled

      Use your VIN to check for open recalls on your vehicle.

    2. 2
      Contact an authorized dealer

      Any authorized dealer for your vehicle brand can perform the recall, not just where you bought it.

    3. 3
      Schedule the appointment

      Mention the specific recall when booking. They'll verify your VIN and confirm parts availability.

    4. 4
      Get confirmation of completion

      Ask for written confirmation that the recall repair was completed. Keep this for your records.

    Common Questions

    Are vehicle recall repairs free in Canada?

    Yes, all safety recall repairs for vehicles in Canada must be performed free of charge by the manufacturer or authorized dealer. This includes parts, labour, and any diagnostic work related to the recall.

    Can a dealer charge me for a recall repair?

    No. Dealers are prohibited from charging customers for any work related to a safety recall. If a dealer attempts to charge you, contact the manufacturer directly and report the issue to Transport Canada.

    What if I already paid for a repair before the recall was announced?

    You may be eligible for reimbursement. Contact the manufacturer with your repair receipts and documentation. Many manufacturers have reimbursement programs for repairs done before a recall was issued.

    Vehicle recall information is published by Transport Canada. Search official vehicle recalls

    You can also check your VIN for open recalls using Carfax Canada's free recall check tool