Things you should know about your new car.   

Your technician uses Technical Service Bulletins, or TSBs, when diagnosing and repairing your vehicle. TSBs are notifications from vehicle manufacturers intended to advise their new car dealer’s service departments. TSB content may range from diagnostic and repair procedures for a known vehicle problem or condition to notifying dealerships about new and improved parts, warranty and service manual updates, or to update company policies and procedures.

Usually, TSB repairs are paid for by the manufacturer only if the vehicle is still within its factory warranty period. If the vehicle is out of warranty, the customer is responsible for the repairs. Often “extended warranty” policies will pay for a TSB related repair.

There are two basic types of motor vehicle recalls - Mandatory and Voluntary. Mandatory recalls are mandated by either the National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In other words, the manufacturer is forced by one of these governing agencies to recall the affected vehicles to remedy a defect. A Voluntary recall is when a manufacturer recalls vehicles for a defect not necessarily related to safety. These types of recalls are rare. Recall repairs are always paid for by the manufacturer.

Some TSBs and Recalls are sent by the manufacturer to dealers to repair manufacturing defects before the affected vehicles are sold. These “in stock” fixes are usually performed before you buy the vehicle.

AutoZone offers a free resource to help you stay on top of the TSBs and Recalls for your vehicle. You can use the Find A Shop feature on www.autozone.com to locate a shop in your area and register for free web services including a personal car page. Your page will feature recommended services based on mileage, an easy-to-use online appointment feature, listings of specials available at your shop, and detailed safety recall and TSB information about your car. It’s a great quick reference guide to help you be more knowledgeable about your vehicle investment!

For the most comprehensive source of diagnostic and repair information available for your vehicle, including current TSBs and Recalls, you can subscribe to ALLDATA® DIY. Visit www.alldatadiy.com for more information. It’s also important to make sure your technician uses a comprehensive resource such as ALLDATA’s professional product for TSB and Recall information.

The information contained in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal or professional advice.