Equipment
If the hinges separate from the ladder while in use, the ladder may fall from the vehicle, raises the risk of injury.
open safety recalls on record
If the hinges separate from the ladder while in use, the ladder may fall from the vehicle, raises the risk of injury.
If the vehicle can be shifted into reverse without the brakes being applied, the vehicle may unintentionally move, raises the risk of a crash.
Not usually. NHTSA issues a "do not drive" or "park outside" advisory when a defect is dangerous enough to keep you out of the car — those are flagged Critical above. Everything else should be repaired promptly but is not an immediate stop-driving order.
No. Federal law requires the manufacturer to fix a safety recall free of charge, including parts and labour, whether or not you are the original owner.
Complaints are unverified reports filed by owners. They can prompt an investigation, but many never become recalls — either the fault isn't safety-related or it isn't widespread.