In such cases it can be prudent to order your own copy from an updated NHTSA bulletin. Another option might be to visit certain websites which offer full text service; ideally for free.
Now you have the information you need and you feel that you have diagnosed your car problem. Why is that important? As the saying goes, knowledge is power. With the TSB number and complete description of the problem in hand you will be able to present a stronger case, which is in turn more likely to yield the results you are looking for, i.e. car repairs or part replacement.
You can request a meeting with the service manager and discuss the problem and outline possible solutions. Usually, a service manager maintains contact with the manufacturer's representative (a field technician) whom they can contact for analysis – determining what would be the next best step for your car.
Alternatively, print the full text of the TBS related to your car problem, take it to your mechanic and ask “where should we go from here?”
Now that you and your service manager / mechanic have come to an understanding of your car problem you can advance to the next step. Generally, the car manufacturer will offer financial help for known problems as a gesture of goodwill; but be warned this is only a token sum. Rarely does it match costs related to the whole amount of required repairs.
Finally, when you experience mechanical problems with your car be sure to approach the right entity to get the best results. Be aware that only the cost of recall-related repairs will be covered in the event of a recall, which is unrelated to a TSB. Any other problems will not be covered.
Also understand that recall work is a separate matter from warranty work. Recalls repairs are not covered by your warranty. It does not matter if your warranty has expired; the car manufacturer has to account for the recall work, not the consumer.
