I think the point being missed is that recalls are not just made on safety grounds. Goods must be fit for their intended purpose and must be of merchantable quality.

It is not reasonable to have to spend large amounts of money to refurbish the vehicle so that it can be operated. The purchase price of the vehicle does not matter. It is not acceptable to have to repair something like a gearbox repeatedly at very low kilometres. Neither is it reasonable for a manufacturer or their representatives to brush complaints off by suggesting that such requirements are standard for that type of vehicle.