Audi Mechanic Near Me Archives - Autobahn Performance

Buy Premium When Replacing These 6 Auto Parts

October 28, 2023 By audi vw mechanic

Would you rather pay $200 or $500 for the parts to repair your car? While the answer is obvious, you may change your mind after reading this article.

Some generic auto parts may keep your repair costs low, and that’s fine. However, there are some parts that you should always buy the premium part to avoid certain damages and costlier expenses.

Paul Cassara of Autobahn Performance gives us an in-depth insider look at the consequences of taking the cheap route when replacing specific auto parts.

OEM Auto Parts vs. Cheap Replacements

The following six auto parts and repair scenarios demonstrate the importance of using Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) premium parts and the avoidable expenses you could face by buying the cheaper part.

Brake Pads and Rotors
Spark Plugs and Coils
Timing Belt and Timing Chain Components
Water Pump
Good Synthetic Oil
OEM Crankcase Vent Valves

Brake Pads and Rotors

The braking system of any vehicle is its most powerful component. Its power becomes evident when having to brake to avoid an accident. OEM parts will last 2 to 4 times longer and work more efficiently at slowing or stopping your car.

Cheap parts may cost between $200 to $500 whereas OEM may range from $400 to $1,200 depending on the vehicle. Don’t jeopardize you or your family members lives to save a few hundred dollars.

Spark Plugs and Coils

Optimum engine performance for combustion engines is highly dependent on the quality of its spark plugs and coils. These parts are needed to maintain a precise firing sequence for the cars’ cylinders. When this sequence is off, even in the slightest, engine power is lost, and gas mileage plummets.

Cheap parts may cost about $100 whereas OEM may run in the range of $300. In this case (as in most), OEM parts guarantee a performance standard and last significantly longer.

Timing Belt and Timing Chain Components

A timing belt or timing chain is a component of an internal combustion engine that synchronizes the rotation of the crankshaft and the camshaft(s), allowing the engine’s valves to open and close at the proper times during each cylinder’s intake and exhaust stroke. Timing is a critical element in the functioning of the combustion engine, and irregular timing can destroy an engine.

Cheap timing parts may cost between $100 to $200 and may end up causing major engine issues, whereas OEM may range from $300 to $500 and generally last significantly longer.

Water Pump

A water pump’s principal purpose is to push engine coolant through the vehicle’s radiator, engine block, and hoses. This part is crucial because the fluid being pumped draws engine heat away from the system’s components. The water pump typically drives off of the crankshaft pulley or in some cases, off of the crankshaft itself.

Cheap water pumps can be between $20 to 50, but we have seen resulting failures that caused significant engine damage. The OEM parts will cost between $100-400, but will last much longer and a drastically reduced rate of failure.

Good Synthetic Oil

Synthetic oil is scientifically engineered to last longer and resist breakdown. Thus, resulting in oil with high levels of lubrication, and in certain vehicles can offer better protection at start-up, better cleansing qualities, and better protection against heat and sludge buildup. You run the risk of shortening your engines life when using cheap oil.

The price of a full-synthetic oil change will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. The average cost for an Audi is between $120 to $175 while that of a VW may range from $100 to $140.

To learn more about top-rated synthetic oils visit https://ramresearch.org/best-synthetic-oil/

OEM Crankcase Vent Valves

Crankcase Vent Valves or the Crankcase Breather ventilates blow-by gases. This is important because if not ventilated, these gases may condense and combine with oil vapor in the crankcase, eventually forming sludge or causing a dilution of the oil with unburned fuel. This is reduced quality and gas mixture can easily shorten your vehicles life.

Also, excessive crankcase pressure may accumulate, ultimately leading to engine oil leaks by damaging crankshaft and other engine seals and gaskets.

The cheap parts will only run you $50 to $100 but will sometimes fail immediately causing misfires and engine codes. The OEM parts typically run between $100 to $300 but keep the vehicle running at its optimum performance for a longer period of time.

OEM Parts Cost Less Over Time

While there are some auto parts you don’t have to buy top of the line, but those mentioned above will end up costing you more in the long run if you try and buy the cheap versions.

Going cheap on vital engine components may result in:

Brake failure.
Accumulation of sludge in your motor.
Backfiring and loss of engine power.
The seizing of your engine.
Gasket and seal leaks.

All of which can create potentially hazardous situations on the road, and will be exponentially more expensive to fix than if you had gone with the right quality part in the first place.

Autobahn Performance

6476 Buford Hwy Norcross, GA 30071
(770) 409-8288

Why Are My Brakes Squealing?

December 20, 2022 By audi vw mechanic

Avoid causing expensive car damage by failing to address your squealing brakes. Brakes can squeal, squeak, or grind for a number of reasons, some of which must be addressed immediately for your safety on the road.

Autobahn gathered information about why your brakes may squeal, squeak, and grind, and how to get them fixed.

Reasons Your Brakes Squeal, Squeak, and Grind

When the most powerful system of your vehicle (your anti-lock brake system) starts to squeal, squeak, or grind, it’s an indication that something is wrong and should be checked out. The following are some of the reasons your brake system may squeal, squeak, or grind:

Worn Brake Pads – When the friction material on your brake pads wears down, the steel backing of the brake pad makes contact with the rotor (disk) producing a squeal and/or grinding sound.

According to cars.com Some brake pads are equipped with a wear indicator that makes contact with the rotor and emits a high pitched squeal when it is time for them to be replaced.

By allowing this scenario to persist, you risk severe damage to the rotors and brake calipers, leading to costly damages and potential brake failure on the road.

Insulation Shims – Behind your brake pads, an insulation shim, or silicone insulation gel that prevents the brakes from squealing.

If you just had your brakes replaced or serviced and they are squealing, chances are that the brake pad insulator was not properly installed.

Return to the brake shop and have them inspect the brakes to verify the proper installment of your brake pad insulators.

Glazed Pads or Rotors – A malfunction in the braking system may cause the brakes to stay partially applied. This constant contact creates friction and immense heat, which causes the pads and rotors to harden and crystallize.

When the crystallization of your pads and rotors takes place, the friction used to stop your vehicle is significantly reduced, and they will undoubtedly produce a squealing sound.

Glazed pads must be replaced, and rotors resurfaced to return stopping power to your brake system.

Warped Rotors – As your rotors wear down, the potential for them to warp becomes greater. Once they have warped, they will no longer allow the brake pads to make even contact and will result in a squeal or a squeak.

Warped rotors should be replaced as quickly as possible to avoid brake malfunction or failure while the vehicle is in operation.

Bad Rotor Surfacing – Whenever a brake job is performed, the rotors should be resurfaced to remove any glazing, grooves, or imperfections. Imperfections left on the rotors may cause squealing or squeaking when the brakes are applied.

Once the rotor surface is “true,” a non-directional finish is applied to help break in new brake pads and prevent “ride up.”

When brake pads ride up, they may cause a clicking noise, break the anti-rattle clips, or cause premature wear on the caliper pin.

Weather and Driving Conditions – Factors including dusty conditions, the temperature of the brakes, how hard you use your brakes, and even the humidity level can all cause your brakes to make some noise.

Noises from these factors are temporary and will generally go away after operating the vehicle for several minutes. However, the persistence of these noises is a clear indication that something has gone wrong with your brake system.

NOTE: If you had your brakes serviced or replaced recently, return to the shop and have them fix the issue. This repair should be covered under the terms of the brake job warranty (depending on the warranty and the elapsed time since the brake job).

How Do I Stop My Brakes from Squealing?

When your brakes are intermittently squealing or squeaking, there is a slim possibility that it will go away on its own. When the noises persist into the next day, it is an indication that you need to have your brakes looked at by a trusted mechanic.

When your brakes emit a grinding noise or a “metal on metal” sound, there is no waiting period. This is an urgent situation that requires immediate attention.

The most efficient way to stop your brakes from making noise is to get your vehicle to your mechanic. Often, there is a more significant problem brewing behind noisy brakes, which may lead to severe damage and costly repairs.

Fixing Squealing Brakes

In this article, you discovered the many reasons that brakes squeal, squeak, and grind, and what actions you should take to get them repaired.

By having your brakes inspected and serviced at the first sign of trouble, you ensure your peace of mind while operating your vehicle.

Don’t let your squealing brakes turn into a safety hazard and result in significant damages to your vehicle or a deadly accident.

Sources:
popularmechanics.com/cars/car-technology/a3092/fix-squeaky-brakes/
carkeys.co.uk/guides/should-i-worry-about-squeaky-brakes

Autobahn Performance

6476 Buford Hwy Norcross, GA 30071
(770) 409-8288

Why and When I Should Get My Oil Changed

March 17, 2022 By audi vw mechanic

Frequent oil changes are a waste of your money. Over the past three decades, there have been significant engineering and technological advances in both the mechanical operation of car engines, as well as the oil we use in them.

The old 3,000 mile “rule of thumb” harkens back to a time when indeed, your engine oil should have been changed every 3,000 miles. For older (or classic) vehicles, this rule still applies. However, fast forward to present day, and newer model vehicles owner’s manual will tell you differently.

Autobahn mechanics gathered the following information to assist you in understanding and making informed decisions about the need to have your car oil changed.

When Do I Need an Oil Change?

The answer to this question varies depending on who you talk to and the vehicle you drive. Your owner’s manual will have a factory recommended oil change schedule, and nearly all newer model vehicles will alert you when it’s time to have the oil changed.

Many repair shops and mechanics will still swear by the 3,000 mile rule, and will remind you by putting it on a sticker in the corner of your windshield. For older vehicles that may be fine, but for newer model cars, you can practically double that before needing the next oil change.

Before going further, you may wonder the reason and why change my oil anyways? The purpose of an oil change is to maintain peak performance of your vehicles engine, thus protecting your investment and prolonging its life. Driving too long without changing your oil will inevitably destroy your engine and render it useless.

Here are a few things that you can do and watch for without your mechanic or car service professional:

Check The Oil Level – Once a month, you should check the engine’s oil level. Here’s how to do it:

- Park your vehicle on a flat surface and shut the engine off. Wait for at least 4 to 5 minutes before proceeding (this allows time for the oil to return to the reservoir).
- Lift and secure the hood.
- Locate the oil dipstick, pull it all the way out, wipe it clean, and put it all the way back in.
- Pull the dipstick out again and look at the end of it. The dipstick will have lines, holes, crosshatching, or the words “Low/High” or “Min/Max”. The oil level should be within these indicators.
- If the oil level has dropped below the minimum, has metallic particles in it, or has an off color (milky), these are all signs that something may be wrong inside the engine. In these cases, have the vehicle inspected as soon as possible.
- When finished, wipe the dipstick clean and put it all the way back in.

Monitoring System – Nearly all newer model vehicles have a monitoring system that senses how it is being driven and under what conditions it is driven. When the system alerts you to “Change Engine Oil”, you should get to a mechanic or car service shop within the next 500 miles.

My Car Is Leaking Oil – If you determine that your vehicle is leaking oil, it is imperative to get it to a mechanic as quickly as possible. The issue may be as simple as tightening the oil filter, or as serious as a cracked engine block. Regardless, this is an urgent matter that must be addressed.

Professional Recommendation – While some auto makers like Audi and Volkswagen recommend oil changes every 10,000 miles, the team at Autobahn Performance recommends replacing the oil every 5,000 miles. This keeps the German cars from slugging up and having issues.

Another recommendation is to at the least schedule an oil change every 6 months. In addition to checking oil, this allows mechanics to inspect your vehicle and catch developing issues before progressing into major repairs and expenses.

Do I Need Conventional or Synthetic Oil?

Synthetic oil can cost three to four times that of conventional oil, and in many cars is not necessary. For vehicles not engineered for high performance, synthetic oil does not extend its life, or guarantee increased engine performance.

However, high-performance and luxury vehicles are engineered to and usually call for synthetic, or at least a semi-synthetic blend. A blended oil consists of conventional mineral oil and synthetic base oil. You can achieve some of the benefits of using a full synthetic oil at a lower cost when using a blend.

For conventional oil, most newer models will have the oil weight printed on the oil cap. The specifications can also be found in the owner’s manual/user guide. Knowing this information will help you control what oil is being used and how much you are paying for it.

Synthetic oil is scientifically engineered to last longer and resist breakdown. This results in an oil with high levels of lubrication, and in certain vehicles can offer better protection at start-up, better cleansing qualities, and better protection against heat buildup. However, synthetic oil should only be used if the vehicle manufacturer recommends it, or in engines that are prone to having sludge issues.

NOTE: Sludge is formed and builds up when oil breaks down. This buildup will eventually block the flow of oil, resulting in the death of the engine.

Motor and Vehicle Inspection

When you take your vehicle in for an oil change, ask for an inspection of the vehicle. This is also the perfect time for a mechanic to:

Inspect the Battery
Inspect the Brake System
Inspect the Cooling System
Inspect the Hoses and Belts
Inspect the Engine and Cabin Air Filters

This is usually a good the time to have your tires rotated. While doing so, they can be inspected for abnormal wear, which may indicate the need for an alignment or suspension work.

Oil Life Monitor and Your Vehicle Owner’s Manual

Newer model vehicles are leaving the factory with “oil life monitors”. This instrument measures vehicle speed, engine temperatures, the climate it is driven in, and factors in how the vehicle is driven. After assessing and factoring in this data, an oil monitor will alert the vehicle operator when it is time to change the oil.

For all vehicles, the owner’s manual should be the primary reference for maintenance decisions. If your vehicle is older and you do not have the manual, a quick online search will help you locate it. Another option is to reach out to a local dealership or the manufacturer for a replacement or advice on a particular issue.

The owner’s manual and all of the engineering that has gone into sensors and warning systems are there to help you protect your investment. When it comes to oil changes, the answer to “Why?” is to keep your engine running at peak efficiency. The “When?” relies on you the owner to make informed decisions based on the knowledge we have shared with you.

Autobahn Performance

6476 Buford Hwy Norcross, GA 30071
(770) 409-8288

https://autobahn-performance.com/

What Does IIHS Stand For And Why Are They Important?

January 18, 2022 By audi vw mechanic

Avoid buying an unsafe vehicle or see how safe your current vehicle is by reviewing information provided by the IIHS. Knowing how vehicles perform in IIHS tests can help you avoid the ones likely to cause injuries, property damage, and death when an accident occurs.

autobahn-performance.com gathered information about the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, what their organization represents, and how their influence has consistently improved vehicle safety since their creation.

What Is The IIHS?

The IIHS is the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The IIHS, an independent, nonprofit scientific and educational organization, founded in 1959, was initially intended to support highway safety efforts by other agencies. By 1969, the institute had been reinvented as an independent research organization with the mission to reduce deaths, injuries, and property damages resulting from motor vehicle crashes.

IIHS research looks into:

• Human Factors – behaviors
• Vehicle Research – safety features
• Physical Environment Research – bettering roadways and eliminating roadside hazards

Since 1979, fatalities on roads in the U.S. have fallen while the population and number of vehicles have increased. This improvement is attributed to IIHS research and safer vehicles. IIHS continues to seek ways of improving roadway design and driver behavior while encouraging the auto industry to continuously improve vehicle safety features.

In 1972, the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) was organized as an affiliate of IIHS with the mission of analyzing and publishing insurance loss data on most vehicle models on U.S. roadways.

To see the full list of auto insurers and insurance associations that wholly support both organizations, visit iihs.org/about-us/member-groups

What Is An IIHS Vehicle Rating?

There are two ways that IIHS tests evaluate a vehicle’s safety performance:

Crashworthiness – How well the vehicle performs at protecting its occupants in a crash. These tests include:

• Small overlap front (driver-side)
• Small overlap front (passenger-side)
• Moderate overlap front
• Side
• Roof strength
• Head restraints and seats

Crash Avoidance And Mitigation – Rates the technology used to prevent a crash or lessen its severity. These tests include:

• Headlights
• Front crash prevention: vehicle-to-vehicle
• Front crash prevention: vehicle-to-person

Test results are rated using the following scale:

• (P) poor
• (M) marginal
• (A) acceptable
• (G) good

Other results are rated as:

• Basic (one green bar)
• Advanced (two green bars)
• Superior (three green bars)

You can see the results of your current vehicle or one you want to purchase by entering the make and model in the search field found at iihs.org/ratings

Resulting from these ratings, the IIHS produces annual lists called “Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick +,” which identify the top-performing vehicles through IIHS safety tests. Many models from Audi, Lexus, BMW, Hyundai, and Chevrolet are consistently rated among the top of their respective classes.

To see a full list of this year’s Safety Pick and Safety Pick+ winners, visit iihs.org/ratings/top-safety-picks You can also search previous winners dating back to 2006.

Read more about life-saving technology and features to look for in your next vehicle at autobahn-performance.com/audi-vw/new-car-safety-technology-features/

IIHS Milestones

Many of the improvements achieved on U.S. roadways over the past 60 years have resulted from IIHS work and research. The following are some of the more significant IIHS milestones:

1968 – IIHS begins bumper tests, which lead to federal bumper standards
1973 – IIHS research provides the scientific basis for making 21 the legal age for purchasing alcohol in all 50 states.
1979 – IIHS test results demonstrate a tendency for the Jeep CJ to roll over. These results lead to the government mandating rollover warnings in some vehicles.
1994 – Automakers improve vehicle designs after IIHS begins offset crash testing to rate frontal crashworthiness.
Early 2000’s – IIHS launches side-impact crash tests and a dynamic test simulating rear impacts. These tests prompt automakers to improve vehicle designs once again.
2013 – IIHS begins testing advanced crash avoidance technology.
2016 – IIHS begins rating headlights.
2019 – IIHS begins rating automatic emergency braking systems that stop vehicles for pedestrians.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and its affiliate the Highway Loss Data Institute have used their resources and data-driven influence over the decades to prompt the auto industry to continuously seek life-saving design and technological improvements for the vehicles we operate.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety

In this article, you discovered information about the IIHS, what they do, and how their influence has made U.S. roadways safer.

By referring to IIHS test result data when seeking a new vehicle, you can make an informed decision about the safety features and their performance before making your purchase.

When you rely on a car dealer to tell you about safety features and ratings of a vehicle, you may not be getting entirely accurate information. And in turn, you may be purchasing a less safe vehicle than you had initially intended.

Sources:
iihs.org
loc.gov/item/lcwaN0003792/
nist.gov/system/files/documents/2019/07/12/day1_part1_cicchino_nist.pdf

Autobahn Performance

6476 Buford Hwy Norcross, GA 30071
(770) 409-8288

When Should My Car’s Shock Absorbers Be Replaced?

January 17, 2022 By audi vw mechanic

Are worn-out shock absorbers robbing you of a smooth ride in your car? By knowing when to replace them, you can prevent the anxiety of a bumpy ride and several mechanical problems down the road.

autobahn-performance.com gathered information about when shock absorbers should be replaced, signs they have failed, the damage they can contribute to over time, and their purpose.

When Should You Replace Your Car’s Shock Absorbers?

Shock absorbers, unlike other vehicle parts, do not have a set expiration date or set mileage. Depending on the amount and under what conditions you drive, they can last far past the 50,000 mile standard. The following are indicators that your shock absorbers need to be replaced:

Bumpy Ride – When your shock absorbers are nearing the end of their useful life, the ride in the vehicle will become bumpy. In fact, as this worsens, you will feel nearly all defects or imperfections on the road. Especially hard drops off of speed bumps.

Braking Problems – Ineffective or bad shock absorbers allow the front-end of your vehicle to “dip” or “squat” when the brakes are applied. The added stress on your brakes can cause a longer stopping distance of 20% or greater.

NOTE: This becomes a significant hazard when driving conditions are combined with rain, snow, or ice.

Steering Problems – Shock absorbers help stabilize your vehicle by maintaining balance and center of gravity. When they fail, you may feel your car sway, dip, or lift as you make turns at different speeds and degrees.

Unusual Tread Wear – Over time, due to your car’s loss of balance, your tires may begin to show strange and uneven wear patterns.

Tip: On your next oil change, request that the mechanic rotate your tires, inspect the tread wear, and evaluate the suspension system.

Fluid Leaks – Another telling sign that you need new shock absorbers is when they leak oil. If you see oil on the lower portion of the absorbers, on the inner walls of your tires, or spots on the ground in their location when you park, this is a strong indication that you need to replace your shock absorbers.

NOTE: Brake fluid leaks may present the same signs as a shock absorber leak. If you are unable to determine the source of the leak, it is recommended NOT to operate the vehicle and call a mobile mechanic to verify the source.

Mileage – Decades ago, the “rule-of-thumb” was to have your shock absorbers replaced every 50,000 miles. However, as vehicle technology and the quality of parts have greatly improved, your factory shock absorbers can last anywhere from 50,000 to 100,000 miles.

When any of these indicators are present, it is strongly recommended to have your vehicle’s suspension system checked by a trusted auto repair shop as quickly as possible.

Tip: Not all vehicles use shock absorbers on all four wheels. It is common to see shocks on the rear tires and struts on the front.

What Is The Difference Between A Shock and A Strut?

A vehicle will have either a shock or a strut found at each wheel (never both). The two components are significantly different in that:

• A strut is a structural part of the vehicle’s suspension system
• Shocks are attached to the suspension system
• Struts are also a part of the vehicle’s steering system and can significantly influence alignment angles.

Besides these differences, there is also a significant disparity between the cost of shock absorbers and struts. Struts are far more costly in comparison to shocks.

Shocks on the rear suspension of a vehicle:

Both components serve to stabilize your vehicle, whether it is in motion or not. Shocks and struts contribute to a smooth and safe ride and should be replaced when they wear out.

Struts on the front suspension of a vehicle:

NOTE: Shocks cannot replace struts, and struts cannot replace shocks. They are entirely different components.

Shock Absorber Replacement

Before replacing your shock absorbers or struts, you should have your entire suspension inspected for part wear, damage, and leaks. Other components that can cause your suspension system to underperform may include:

• Ball Joints
• Tie Rods
• Control Arms
• Springs

Some manufacturers recommend replacement at 50,000 miles, but a more reasonable approach is to have the shocks, struts, and suspension system inspected at 50,000 miles, then annually after that.

A thorough inspection by a trusted auto repair shop should uncover what parts, if any, need replacement.

Tip: Never replace a single shock absorber or a single strut. To avoid erratic vehicle operation and handling, they should always be replaced in pairs.

When Do Shocks And Struts Need To Be Replaced?

In this article, you discovered information to help you determine when to replace your car’s shock absorbers, signs that they have worn out, damages they can cause, and their purpose.

By having your car’s suspension system inspected and replacing your shocks or struts when they fail, you add to the comfort and security of your commute.

Allowing your shocks and struts to wear out without taking action, you are contributing to the stress and damage to other vital systems and parts of your vehicle.

Sources:
carid.com/articles/when-is-it-time-to-replace-my-shock-absorbers.html
cars.com/articles/how-long-should-shock-absorbers-last-1420676937486/
consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0211-auto-repair-basics
shockwarehouse.com/news/differenceshocksstruts.cfm

Autobahn Performance

6476 Buford Hwy Norcross, GA 30071
(770) 409-8288

Takata Airbag Recall Information and Check by VIN

July 17, 2019 By audi vw mechanic

Is your vehicle equipped with the deadly Takata airbags? Uncover the reason for the recent airbag recall and learn which vehicles are affected by these faulty airbags.

autobahn-performance.com gathered information about the Takata airbag recall, its potential damage, how you can determine if your vehicle is included in this recall, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Defective Takata Airbags

Tens of millions of vehicles with Takata airbags are currently under recall. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) strongly recommends that vehicle owners take a few simple steps to protect themselves and others from this severe safety threat.

The center of attention is the airbag’s inflator (a metal cartridge filled with propellant) which has ignited with explosive force due to long-term exposure to high heat and humidity. A breach of the inflator housing can cause metal shards to be sprayed throughout the passenger cabin. Such explosions have resulted in both injuries and deaths.

Watch this video to see injuries caused by a Takata airbag inflator explosion.

What Cars Are Included in the Takata Airbag Recall?

Takata airbags are used throughout the automobile industry, and nearly all manufacturers have been affected by this recall. The following are the automotive manufacturers listed on the NHTSA web site.

Furthermore, NHTSA strongly urges consumers not to drive the following vehicles (if under recall) unless they are going straight to a dealer to have them repaired:

• 2001-2002 Honda Civic
• 2001-2002 Honda Accord
• 2002-2003 Acura TL
• 2002 Honda CR-V
• 2002 Honda Odyssey
• 2003 Acura CL
• 2003 Honda Pilot

For further information regarding these manufacturers and vehicle models, visit nhtsa.gov/equipment/takata-recall-spotlight

Vehicle Recalls by VIN

The NHTSA recommends checking your vehicle identification number (VIN) at least twice per year for active recalls.

To check your vehicle’s VIN, first, locate it by looking on the lower left of your car’s windshield for the 17-character Number. Your VIN can also be found on your car’s registration card, and it may be displayed on your insurance card.

Once you have the number, go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN in the space provided.

This search tool will provide information on:

• Recalls dating back 15 calendar years.
• Vehicle safety recalls from major light auto automakers, including motorcycle manufacturers.

This tool will not provide information on:

• A vehicle with a repaired safety recall. If your vehicle doesn’t have any unrepaired recalls, you will see the message: “0 Unrepaired recalls associated with this VIN”
• Manufacturer customer service or other non-safety recall campaigns
International vehicles
• There may be a delay with recently announced safety recalls for which not all VINs have been identified. VINs are added continuously, and it is strongly suggested to check regularly.
• Safety recalls more than 15 years old (unless a manufacturer is offering more coverage)

Remember to check your VIN twice per year by setting recurring reminders on your digital calendar.

If your vehicle is identified as being recalled, contact your dealership or vehicle manufacturer immediately for instructions on when and where to take your vehicle for repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: How many cars are affected by the Takata airbag recall?
Answer: According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 42 million vehicles in the United States alone are affected by the Takata airbag recall.

Question: Are vehicle recalls free?
Answer: According to the NHTSA, vehicles under recall will be fixed for free.

Question: Can a dealer sell a used car with a recall?
Answer: Yes. As long as the vehicle is listed and sold as “used,” it may be sold with a recall.
Answer: No. Dealerships are prohibited from selling new vehicles with a recall.

Question: Can a dealership refuse to fix a recall?
Answer: No. When a dealer refuses to make repairs on a vehicle under a recall letter, you should notify the vehicle manufacturer immediately. You can file a complaint against the dealer with the NHTSA at www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/VehicleComplaint/

Question: Does it matter where I live?
Answer: Yes. According to NHTSA, the Takata inflators seem to be vulnerable to persistent high humidity and high-temperature conditions. However, several confirmed deaths have occurred in places outside of the priority recall area, this recall should not be ignored regardless of where you live.

The American states and territories have been divided into three priority zones:

Zone A – Most Critical: (hot and humid) Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Zone B – Critical: (less hot and humid) Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.

Zone C – Less Critical: (least hot and humid) Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

For owners of Audi or Volkswagen vehicles, recently there was also a timing chain recall, and more info can be found here: autobahn-performance.com/audi-vw/volkswagen-audi-timing-chain-settlement-recall-repair-reimbursement-information/

Takata Airbag Recall

If your vehicle is equipped with defective Takata airbag inflators, you may be driving around with an explosive device capable of inflicting grave injuries or causing your death if they deploy.

In this article, you discovered the reason for the recent Takata airbag recall, which vehicles are affected, how to verify whether or not your vehicle is included in it, and the answers to some frequently asked questions.

Your delay in getting a defective Takata airbag inflator replaced can result in severe harm or death of those traveling in your vehicle.

Sources:
https://www.audiusa.com/about/takata.html
https://www.vw.com/takata-recalls/
http://web.audiusa.com/recall/
https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/takata-airbag-recall-everything-you-need-to-know/
https://www.safercar.gov/staticfiles/rulemaking/pdf/Recalls-FAQ.pdf

Autobahn Performance

6476 Buford Hwy Norcross, GA 30071
(770) 409-8288