How to check car recalls by VIN on NHTSA
Find your VIN, search NHTSA, and know what the search does not show.
Find your VIN
NHTSA says to look on the lower left of your windshield for your 17-character VIN. It says the VIN is also on your registration card and may be on your insurance card.
What the search shows
NHTSA says a search by license plate or VIN tells you if a specific vehicle needs to be repaired as part of a recall.
What it does not show
NHTSA says the search does not show recalls already repaired, some recently announced recalls where not all VINs are identified yet, recalls more than 15 years old unless a maker offers more coverage, recalls by some small manufacturers, non-safety campaigns, or international vehicles. NHTSA says VINs are added continuously, so check regularly. A search with no open recalls is not a guarantee. Always follow a recall notice from the maker.
How the repair works
NHTSA says manufacturers are required to fix the problem by repairing it, replacing it, offering a refund, or in rare cases repurchasing the vehicle. It says to contact your local dealership to fix the recalled part for free.
Notices by mail
NHTSA says manufacturers notify registered owners by first class mail, and to follow any interim safety guidance the manufacturer provides.
How often to check
NHTSA says to register your vehicle, tires, car seats, and equipment and to check recalls twice a year.
This is general information, not mechanical or legal advice. Your owner's manual and a qualified technician come first.
Sources: NHTSA, Check for Recalls.
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