Being a dutiful car owner means keeping up with regular maintenance and staying informed about potential issues specific to your vehicle. One way to do the latter is to read technical service bulletins, often known by the abbreviation TSBs, concerning your make and model. Here, we’ll discuss what those bulletins are, why they’re issued, how they differ from recalls, and how to find them.
- What Is a Technical Service Bulletin?
- Why Do Automakers Issue TSBs?
- Are TSBs the Same as Recalls?
- Finding TSB Information
- Implications for Buyers and Owners
What Is a Technical Service Bulletin?
Issued by vehicle manufacturers to dealership service departments, repair shops, body shops, and other vehicle maintenance businesses, a technical service bulletin (TSB) is an official notice outlining a known problem with a particular model and how to fix it.
They’re for non-safety-related problems, often addressing specific mechanical or electrical concerns.
Everyone from Ford to Toyota to Hyundai works with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to track these problems and release appropriate TSBs.
TSBs are often created when service departments, customers or the vehicle manufacturer’s own data reveal a recurring issue with a specific vehicle.
For example, a TSB might relate to a software issue or a common problem with a vehicle’s infotainment system. Each TSB includes a specific troubleshooting guide, the repair procedure, required parts, and labor time to ensure consistency across all affected vehicles. Authorized repair shops and dealerships rely on these details to ensure vehicles are repaired accurately, efficiently, and according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
TSBs do not automatically mean free repairs for the owner, and whether they are covered often depends on the vehicle’s warranty status. However, if a TSB issue is identified while the car is still under warranty, the manufacturer may cover the cost. It is a good idea to check for TSBs before your vehicle’s warranty runs out to see if your vehicle is eligible for a free-of-charge repair.
Why Do Automakers Issue TSBs?
TSBs offer multiple benefits for car manufacturers, customers, and technicians by addressing specific recurring issues and streamlining repair processes. Key reasons why car companies issue TSBs include:
Customer loyalty: By acknowledging and managing known issues, automakers improve customer satisfaction and loyalty. A positive experience with the service department can boost customer trust in both the dealership and the brand.
Proactive problem-solving: TSBs allow manufacturers to address common problems efficiently by documenting them and prescribing a standardized solution. This ensures consistent repairs, allowing shops to follow the same procedure across all affected vehicles.
Data-driven improvements: Data from warranty claims, service records and customer reports help manufacturers detect patterns and identify recurring issues. TSBs allow manufacturers to address these problems in real-time, while also using the information to improve future vehicles and reduce the number of issues in new models.
Are TSBs the Same as Recalls?
While TSBs and recalls both address vehicle issues, they have different purposes and requirements. A recall is issued when a vehicle has a safety-related defect or a significant safety issue that requires immediate correction. Recalls mostly involve safety-related components such as airbags, brakes, or fuel systems. Car manufacturers are legally obligated to inform vehicle owners of safety recalls and provide free repairs for vehicles up to 15 years old, regardless of the warranty status.
Recalls can also be requested or mandated due to non-safety-related issues. For instance, the EPA may issue a recall for emissions violations, such as when Volkswagen violated the Clean Air Act with certain diesel cars that circumvented emissions standards from the 2009 to 2015 model years.
In short, safety-related recalls must be filed with the NHTSA, are mandatory, and handled at no cost to the owner. TSBs do not carry these requirements. Again, this makes it important for car owners to inquire about TSBs during their warranty period to potentially avoid paying for the repair.
Finding TSB Information
Knowing where to find TSBs can help car owners stay informed about potential issues and address them before they become serious. Here are some ways to locate TSBs for your vehicle:
NHTSA website: The NHTSA website allows car owners to search for TSBs by entering the make, model, and vehicle identification number (VIN). The NHTSA is an authoritative source for TSBs, providing access to up-to-date information.
Dealership service department: Service departments at authorized dealerships are usually the first to know about TSBs for the brands they represent. Dealership technicians may automatically address any applicable TSBs during regular service visits, especially if they are covered under warranty. Checking with your dealership’s service department is a great way to stay informed.
Automotive forums and repair shops: Online automotive forums and independent repair shops often discuss TSBs for various models. Enthusiast communities for specific brands or vehicle types share information on TSBs, including personal experiences with repairs, but it’s always a good idea to verify the TSB details with the NHTSA or a dealership for accuracy.
Manufacturer websites and customer support: Some car manufacturers make TSBs available on their websites or provide them upon request via customer support. Checking directly with the manufacturer is another way to access up-to-date information on TSBs and any ongoing service campaigns.
Implications for Buyers and Owners
TSBs can affect both car owners and prospective buyers. Here are some of the key implications:
Cost savings: If your vehicle is still under warranty, TSB repairs may be covered at no cost, making it beneficial to check for TSBs before the warranty expires. TSBs can also prevent minor issues from escalating, saving owners money in the long run.
Efficient repairs: TSBs contain specific instructions for technicians to address known problems efficiently. By referring to a TSB, technicians follow a structured repair procedure, saving time and ensuring the issue is resolved accurately. This can lead to better repairs and reduce the likelihood of repeat visits for the same problem.
Informed purchasing decisions: For car buyers, reviewing TSBs for certain models can provide insight into recurring issues, helping to gauge the long-term ownership experience. TSBs reveal repair patterns for components such as transmissions and electronics systems, giving prospective buyers a better understanding of potential maintenance needs. Buyers may even use this information to negotiate a purchase price or prepare for potential future repairs.
Proactive ownership: Staying up to date on TSBs helps car owners manage their vehicles effectively. By addressing known issues early, owners can prevent small problems from growing into costly repairs and extend their vehicle’s longevity. Regularly checking for new TSBs also allows owners to follow the manufacturer’s recommended updates, maintaining optimal performance and preserving the vehicle’s resale value.
