Vehicle Recall Lookup & Check by VIN

A recent report shows that for the first quarter of 2024 The Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), revealed 105 recalls affecting 9,697,120 vehicles. Your vehicle might not be safe! A vehicle recall occurs when manufacturers want to fix safety-related issues by repairing, replacing, offering a refund, or repurchasing the vehicle. Run a recall lookup by VIN now to ensure your car is safe.

Recall Check by VIN: A Win-Win-Win for Buyers, Sellers, and Dealerships

Safety recall checks benefit everyone involved in a car deal:

  • Buyers: Get peace of mind knowing the car is free of known safety issues.
  • Sellers: Ensure they're not unknowingly selling a potentially dangerous vehicle.
  • Dealerships: Uphold their reputation for safety and avoid legal complications.
  • Car Owners: Ensure their own safety and compliance with safety regulations
Recalls Vehicle Report Sample

Where can I find my vehicle identification number (VIN)?

Vehicle Recalls Data

How to Check for Recalls

To conduct a VIN recall check  simply follow the steps below:

  • Find your VIN
  • Visit the Detailed Vehicle History Recall check page
  • If you are already on this page use the form field provided at the beginning of the page
  • Enter the VIN and any required information
  • Click on “VIN Check”

Sample Report with Recall Data

This report provides a detailed overview of a 2018 KIA Sportage, VIN: KNDPMCAC3J7364399. The vehicle has undergone multiple ownership changes, with four calculated owners since its purchase in 2018. It has been primarily used for personal purposes. 

The report indicates one accident reported in 2023 in Colorado, resulting in severe damage and airbag deployment. There are no other damage records reported. The odometer readings show consistent usage over time. 

Additionally, the vehicle has been subject to various service and repair events, including routine maintenance and dealership inspections. Two events have been reported, including a manufacturer service bulletin and a collision with another vehicle, leading to the vehicle being titled as salvage in 2024. 3 Open recalls have also been identified, indicating safety-related issues that may require attention.

View Sample

How to Address Open Safety Recalls: A Step-by-Step Guide

Keeping your car safe starts with staying informed about open recalls which can be achieved by running an auto recall by VIN. Here’s what to do if you discover your vehicle has one:

Notifying Vehicle Manufacturer (if not already done):

While manufacturers typically reach out to owners directly, you can confirm by contacting their customer service department. They'll provide details and the next steps.

Scheduling Recall Repair:

  • Contact your local authorized dealership for the manufacturer.
  • Mention the recall and schedule a service appointment for the repair or replacement.
  • Remember, these repairs are usually free of charge.

Following Up on Recall Notices:

  • Keep copies of all communication regarding the recall, including service records after the repair.
  • If you don't hear back from the manufacturer after a reasonable time, reach out again to confirm they have your contact information.
  • In rare cases, a recall remedy might require additional steps. The manufacturer will guide you through them.
  • Staying informed about recalls is crucial. By following these steps, you can ensure your vehicle is safe and road-worthy.

Check Recall By Manufacturer

Car Recall Questions

Absolutely! The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is your key to checking for recalls. You can use it on the VIN to learn about open recalls on this page.

Technically, no. Once a safety issue is identified, the recall remains open until repairs are completed on all affected vehicles. However, some parts may become unavailable over time, limiting repair options.

There are three main ways:
  • Recall VIN Check:  This is the most accurate method. Use your VIN at the NHTSA website or your manufacturer’s website.
  • Manufacturer Notification:  Car manufacturers are required to contact registered owners by mail if their vehicle is under recall.

    • In most cases, the manufacturer will reach out to you by mail. However, it’s not guaranteed.  Regular recall checks using our tool are your best bet.

    Recalls remain valid indefinitely until repairs are completed on all affected vehicles.