The federal government says 6.6 million unsafe vehicles are likely on the road amid numerous unresolved safety recalls.

Transport Canada estimates that one in five of the 33.3 million vehicles registered as of 2019 have outstanding recalls, but continue to to be driven on the streets and highways, potentially endangering occupants and other road users.

The department is proposing new rules that would require companies that issue a safety recall to quickly post related information on their website in order to boost awareness and fix the defect.

Ian Jack, vice-president of public affairs at the Canadian Automobile Association, says only a minority of owners find out about recalls, especially if the car is second-hand with the new owner beyond the reach of the dealership.