Technology

A recall is the legally defined process to address a safety issue. From NTSHA’s documentation.

Manufacturers voluntarily initiate many of these recalls, while others are either influenced by NHTSA investigations or ordered by NHTSA via the courts. If a safety defect is discovered, the manufacturer must notify NHTSA, as well as vehicle or equipment owners, dealers, and distributors. The manufacturer is then required to remedy the problem at no charge to the owner. NHTSA is responsible for monitoring the manufacturer's corrective action to ensure successful completion of the recall campaign.

There was a safety issue and it was addressed by the manufacturer: huzzah!

Even physical mechanical changes don’t usually require the car to go back to the factory, they’re often addressed as part of routine maintenance.

The term may feel misleading, but it exists and is used in a specific context.