To add to Dave's post;
In addition to recalls, there are service bulletins that are created to address issues that for some reason are kept a secret from vehicle owners and are not subject to mandatory repairs from the manufacturer. I personally experienced an issue with my 07 Toyota Tacoma 4X4. The rear springs were weak and when towing or carrying cargo it was a problem. Toyota upgraded the springs ($1400+) at no charge, but only because I complained. It was not serious enough for a recall, and by keeping the information secret, Toyota saved a lot of money by not informing owners of this issue.
I found out about this at the
rally at Champoeg SP a few year ago. Another Tacoma owner and I were discussing our trucks and he had already had the upgrade. I researched the issue on the internet and there was lots of information. It is a good idea to do an internet search for both recall and service bulletins on any vehicle you own or are thinking of buying.