According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), improvements in the automobile recall process is the direct result of better communication between the regulators and manufacturers. He also added that substantial increases in fines for not reporting a recall promptly was also a big factor in encouraging manufacturers to be more pro active with recalls

In 2008, when Toyota was experiencing problems involving sticky accelerator pedals and poorly fitting floor mats, the NHTSA was criticized for their handling of the investigation. The National Academy of Science (NAS) said that the NHTSA lacked the understanding of increasingly complex automobile hardware and software which lead to the investigation being carried out poorly. Since then the NHTSA have restructured their investigation and recall process, increased fines, and developed better communication with manufacturers by meeting regularly to discuss safety and technology. According to David Strickland, lead administrator at the NHTSA, “We have always worked hard to make sure manufacturers recognize their responsibility and get the recalls out as quickly as possible. Everyone recognizes in this environment that everybody benefits by having the customers assured of the safest vehicle possible.”