What is a recall?
A product recall is an action taken to remove an unsafe product from the market and, where possible, to fix or replace it. Recalls can be initiated voluntarily by a company, or ordered by a government agency after identifying a safety risk. In the U.S., recalls are overseen by the FDA (food and drugs), NHTSA (vehicles), USDA (meat and poultry), and CPSC (consumer products).
What should I do if I have a recalled product?
Stop using the product immediately. Check the recall notice for the specific lot numbers, model numbers, or date codes that are affected — not every unit of a brand is always included. Then follow the remediation instructions: this could mean returning it for a refund, contacting the manufacturer for a free repair, or disposing of it safely. Never donate or sell a recalled product.
How serious is a Class I recall?
Class I is the most serious recall classification, used when a product has a reasonable probability of causing serious adverse health consequences or death. Examples include food contaminated with Listeria or E. coli, medications with incorrect dosages, or vehicles with defects that can cause loss of control. Class II and Class III recalls involve lower risk levels.
Are recall repairs free?
For vehicle recalls, yes — federal law requires manufacturers to fix safety defects at no cost to the owner, regardless of the vehicle's age or warranty status. For consumer products, the remedy (refund, replacement, or repair) is also typically free but varies by recall. For food and medication recalls, retailers and pharmacies generally accept returns for a full refund, often without a receipt.
Data sourced from the FDA, NHTSA, USDA, and CPSC. Recall Radar is not affiliated with any government agency. Learn more →