Environmental Products: EPA Veicle Recalls

Vehicle manufacturers are required to design and build their vehicles to meet emission standards for the useful life of the vehicle specified by law. Under Section 207 of the Clean Air Act, if EPA determines that a substantial number of vehicles in a class or category do not meet emission standards in actual use even though they are properly maintained and used, EPA can require the manufacturer to recall and fix the affected vehicles.

EPA conducts emissions testing on randomly procured in-use vehicles at the National Vehicle and Fuels Emission Laboratory in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The vehicles are screened for proper use and maintenance, and then tested for emissions compliance in the laboratory. If problems are found, discussions begin with the manufacturer on possible remedies, which may include a recall of the affected vehicles.

Manufacturers are required to report certain defects they find to EPA if they affect emission-related parts. Many times the discovery of these defects leads to voluntary recalls or service campaigns. Manufacturers are also required to report to EPA all emission-related voluntary recalls.

Recalls and other remedies are usually conducted voluntarily by the manufacturer, although EPA has the authority to order a manufacturer to recall and fix noncomplying vehicles. Most recalls are initiated voluntarily by manufacturers once a potential noncompliance is discovered. These voluntary actions could be influenced indirectly by the potential for EPA action. Some voluntary recalls are directly influenced via EPA in discussions with manufacturers.

• Diazinon: Phase Out of all Residential Uses of the Insecticide
• EPA Orders ‘Stop Sale’ of Product that Claims To Neutralize Anthrax
• EPA Veicle Recalls

Recalls and Class Action Topics

• Boats and Boating Safety
• Consumer Products
• Environmental Products
• Foods Medicines Cosmetics
• Meat and Poultry Products
• Motor Vehicles Car Seats
• Product Recalls
• Recalls and Class Action Verdicts

Recalls and Class Action Videos

• Class Action Litigation
• Mass Torts
• Recalls and Class Actions

Recalls and Class Action Links

• Recalls and Class Action - U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Includes the most significant product actions of the last 60 days, based on the extent of distribution and the degree of health risk.