NHTSA sets reimbursement rules for prerecall consumer expenses

WASHINGTON (Nov. 1)—The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued a final rule requiring tire, auto and auto parts makers to reimburse consumers for repairs or replacements made before the recall of a defective product. As the Rubber Manufacturers Association requested, the rule allows manufacturers to deny reimbursement without proof of purchase of the recalled item and its replacement or repair. However, there are certain points the RMA disagrees with, according to Ann Wilson, the association's senior vice president. The RMA and its members are studying the regulation to see if they will file formal objections before the Dec. 2 deadline, Wilson said. The rule goes into effect Jan. 15.