A government will make an investigation into complaints received, e.g., by consumers, and there will be a preliminary evaluation and engineering analysis. Preliminary evaluations, also known as PEs, are commenced based on information submitted to the government. This is not the only basis upon which they can be opened, but the most common. The government then obtains information from the manufacturer and makes an independent determination based on all the information they have, whether or not there is an issue with the car which might warrant a recall.  The manufacturer has the opportunity to present its various views with regard to the supposed defects. Again, this investigation comes after the petition analysis, wherein the government makes the initial consideration if a further investigation is warranted.  There is then an engineering analysis where the government conducts a more detailed and complete analysis of the type and nature of the alleged defect. The government attempts to resolve all of the engineering investigations within one year if possible, but it is likely that they would extend if they are complex. At the conclusion of the engineering analysis, the investigation might be closed but a recall might be issued through a letter to the manufacturer.