Increase in vehicle recalls by the Federal Motor Vehicles Agency

In the automotive world, 2024 saw a significant increase in the number of vehicles recalled due to safety-related defects. According to the Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA), approximately 2.84 million vehicles were recalled, marking a 48% increase from the previous year (2023), when around 1.9 million cars and motorcycles were affected.

The rise in recalls in 2024 was not limited to a single issue. Recall statistics show fluctuations in the systems most affected from year to year. In 2021, driver assistance systems, airbags, and electrical components were the primary focus of vehicle recalls. On the other hand, in some years, engine and exhaust problems have been the primary focus.

The Takata airbag recalls, which began affecting vehicles from 2015 and continued over the years, still have smaller recalls occurring currently. Although the peak of these recalls ended in 2019, they continue to this day, albeit on a smaller scale.

Between 2018 and 2022, nearly three to three and a half million vehicles were recalled annually. This trend continued into 2024, with smaller recalls also occurring for vehicles initially considered less risky.

Interestingly, the automotive new registration balance for 2024 shows a 1% shrinkage in the car market. Despite this, the GW-TRENDS Used Car Year 2024 shows significant growth in the used car market, suggesting a shift in consumer behaviour towards used vehicles.

The increase in recalls in 2024 also coincides with a trend indicating Germans are driving more. However, there are no specific search results indicating which automobile brand caused the most safety-related recalls in 2024.

It's important to note that recalls are a necessary part of the automotive industry, aimed at ensuring the safety of drivers and passengers. If you own a vehicle and receive a recall notice, it's crucial to get the necessary repairs done as soon as possible.

As we move forward, it will be interesting to see how the automotive industry addresses these safety concerns and continues to improve the vehicles on our roads.