What do you do if you have a recalled product?

There are a few things you should know when a product has been recalled.

If you have a recalled product, the first thing you should do is stop using it. Next, try to find out more information about the recall and how to return it for a replacement.

Below are a few things to know about recalls and what you can do when something you have has been recalled.

What is a recall?

A recall is a request from a manufacturer to return a product after a discovery has been made that might endanger the consumer or put a company at risk of a lawsuit.

What types of products can be recalled?

Several products are the most often recalled and include:

  • Food — these recalls typically involve contamination, undeclared ingredients and foreign objects.
  • Medications — medications can be recalled for improper storage before distribution, unstated side effects or manufacturing errors that could put someone at risk.
  • Automobiles — vehicles are frequently subject to recalls for a variety of issues that are considered safety risks. In newer cars like Teslas, “over-the-air” updates to the car’s software are used to fix some recall issues.
  • Child products — toys, furniture and clothing may be recalled due to choking hazards or other safety risks.

How to find out if a product has been recalled

There are a few ways to learn more about a recall or if a product you have has been recalled.

Home Products

Nearly all other product recall information can be found on the Consumer Product Safety Commission website.

Automobiles

For most automobile recalls, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration sends a notification to the owner or the dealership where you bought the car.

You can enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on this page to see if any recalls are related to your vehicle.

Everything Else

Recalls.gov is also an excellent resource for finding recall information which includes recalls of automobiles, boats, food, medication, cosmetics and more.

What do I do if I have a recalled product?

If you have a product that you think may have been recalled, the best thing to do is check the Consumer Product Safety Commission website. You can search by product name or type, and the website will provide information on what to do next.

If you can’t return the item, be sure to dispose of it properly according to the manufacturer or government instructions. In most cases, you may be able to return the product for a refund or exchange. Make sure to stay up to date with any news on the recall to see if there are any new developments.

Remember — just because a product is recalled doesn’t mean it’s unsafe. Sometimes, products are recalled due to manufacturing issues and not because there’s anything wrong with them. If you’re unsure about a product, contact the manufacturer to get more information.

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