Quick answer: Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your 17-character VIN. The tool shows any unrepaired safety recalls from the last 15 years. Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer for that brand.
Key Takeaways
- Enter your 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer
- The tool covers the last 15 model years
- Always run the VIN before buying a used car
Where to find your VIN
- Driver-side dashboard, visible through the windshield
- Driver-side door jamb sticker
- Registration card and insurance documents
How to run the check
- Visit nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Type the VIN (letters I, O, and Q are never used, so read carefully).
- Review the results. “0 unrepaired recalls” means you are clear.
You can also download the free NHTSA SaferCar app to get alerts for your vehicles.
What to do if a recall is open
Call a dealer for the vehicle’s brand, give them the VIN, and schedule the repair. Parts are sometimes back-ordered; ask to be put on a list and whether the vehicle is safe to drive meanwhile.
Buying a used car
Always run the VIN before buying. Sellers are not always required to fix open recalls, so factor repair time into your decision.
Not just cars
NHTSA also tracks recalls for tires, child car seats, and motorcycles. Register your car seat with the manufacturer to receive recall notices.
FAQ
Do recalls expire? Safety recall repairs remain free indefinitely, though the lookup only shows the last 15 model years.
Will a recall show up on a Carfax report? Often, but the NHTSA tool is the authoritative source.
Can I be reimbursed if I already paid for the repair? Sometimes; manufacturers offer reimbursement programs for repairs done before the recall was announced. Ask the dealer.
Sources
Last updated: August 16, 2026. Written by the InfoBrief Editorial team. We link to official government and company sources and update articles when facts change. See our disclosure.