Vehicle recalls are surging, with a record number reported in 2026. Journalist Paul Eisenstein attributes this to a wide range of problems, differing from the mostly mechanical issues of the past. Digital defects in modern vehicles are now a primary cause of recalls.

These digital defects can often be fixed with software updates, many of which can be applied remotely. This is a change from traditional mechanical recalls, which typically require physical repairs.

Further details on the surge in vehicle recalls and their causes are available from discussions with journalist Paul Eisenstein.