Consumer group calls for car recall overhaul

The car safety recall system is putting drivers' lives at risk and is need of major reform, it has been claimed.

According to Which? Car, the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) is not fit for purpose and is failing in its duty to safeguard British motorists.

Last year, the VOSA instigated no recalls, while it US equivalent the National Highway Traffic System Administration initiated 118.

In the UK, it is car makers who determine when a recall is necessary and Which? Car plans to meet VOSA representatives soon to discuss the issue and propose bringing the system more in line with that of the US.

Richard Headland, editor of the magazine, said that VOSA needs to improve for the benefit of UK drivers.

"VOSA is a toothless organisation that appears to pander to the car industry. Which? Car believes it is providing a substandard level of protection to British motorists. In contrast, America's NHTSA leads the way as an example of how a safety recall organisation should operate," he added.

Earlier this year, VOSA seized two stretch limousines from a company and crushed them because they failed to meet the required safety standard.

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