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MOTORINDIA
l
August 2012
SIAM
code on vehicle recall
comes into force
In a significant development to ensure safety and cus-
tomer satisfaction, SIAM member-companies have im-
plemented the “Voluntary Code on Vehicle Recall” with
effect from July 1.
Last year the Indian automobile industry sold about
17.3 million vehicles which included about 2.6 million
passenger cars, about 13.4 million two-wheelers and 1.3
million commercial vehicles and three-wheelers. The
volume has grown significantly over the years from a
modest number of about 5.3 million in 2001.
This initiative is one more step taken by the industry
to reinforce its commitment to the society to ensure ve-
hicle safety for the occupants as well as to others.
For the Indian auto industry, which has already taken
several steps to make vehicles safer, this voluntary re-
call code is a reinforcement of its commitment towards
consumers and the society at large by ensuring that ve-
hicles continue performing effectively during operation.
The recall code is a uniform framework for recalling
vehicles by manufacturers. The code is applicable to
registered passenger cars, two-wheelers and commercial
vehicles. For CBU imports by member-companies or
independent im-
porters, the con-
cerned importers
should bear the
responsibility of
enforcement of
the code.
The code cov-
ers various topics
like notification
to vehicle own-
ers, action(s) for
recall, publica-
tion of informa-
tion and listing
down what should the vehicle owner do in case of miss-
ing recall.
The decision on recall takes into account the degree
of seriousness or severity of occurrence of any possible
hazard involved.
The code ensures that the recall information will also
be posted on the company website and the communica-
tion will be received by vehicle owners. The reported
vehicle will be rectified by the manufacturer through its
dealers at no cost to the customer.
Further, in case a manufacturer fails to announce re-
call where “clear evidence” is available as per the recall
definition and the above guidelines, then the Govern-
ment/Ministry may issue appropriate directions to vehi-
cle manufacturers for such violation.
w
AUTO INDUSTRY
Mr. S. Sandilya, SIAM President
The voluntary code will address potential issues related
to the safety due to manufacturing defects and the re-
medial action taken in this regard. The vehicle would be
covered under safety recall for a period of seven years.