Transport Canada Requires Online Vehicle Recall Information by 2026

In a significant move to enhance vehicle safety, the Canadian government has amended regulations to require all automakers and vehicle equipment manufacturers to publish safety recall information on their websites. Previously, manufacturers were only obligated to mail recall notices, which could be lost or unread, leaving many vehicles with unresolved issues—estimates indicate over 20% of vehicles on Canadian roads fall into this category. The new regulations also mandate the implementation of a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) lookup tool, allowing owners to quickly check for applicable recalls. Transport Minister Anita Anand emphasized the importance of easy access to recall information, urging Canadians to stay informed about potential safety issues with their vehicles. The amendment is part of the Strengthening Motor Vehicle Safety for Canadians Act and will be fully enforced by mid-2026. This initiative aims to reduce the risks posed by unresolved safety recalls and ensure better protection for road users.