Recalls' shortcomings
A 2011 report by the Government Accountability Office explains why U.S. recall completion rates range from a lackluster 55% to 75%.
- Many owners don't maintain up-to-date addresses with state vehicle registration offices.
- The accuracy of customer addresses erodes as vehicles change hands.
- Some states require the vehicle owner's signature before contact information can be released.
Stephanie Erdman’s tragic car crash starkly illustrates the biggest recall headache for dealers and automakers: old cars.