How to Check If Your Vehicle Is Part of a Recall

When you buy a car, you expect that it will operate and function as you need it to. Unfortunately, vehicle recalls happen more often than many people realize and are a huge safety concern. In 2020 alone, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued nearly 900 recalls affecting nearly 55 million vehicles, but 25% of these recalls were not fixed.

Below, we discuss how to check whether your vehicle is affected by a safety recall and how to get the defective part fixed.

NHTSA Online Recall Search Tool

No matter how insignificant a part may seem, every recall is significant and should be taken care of immediately. The NHTSA recommends that all vehicle owners proactively check for new recalls at least twice a year. Here are three easy steps you can follow in order to check:

Find Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This is a 17-digit number that identifies your specific vehicle and can be found in several places, including on the lower left of your car's windshield, on the label inside your driver side door jamb, on your vehicle registration, or on your vehicle insurance information.
Search the VIN Online. Visit the website www.NHTSA.gov/Recalls and put in your vehicle number. This will tell you whether there is an open recall affecting your vehicle and what steps you need to take moving forward.
Get the Recall Repaired. If there is a recall affecting your vehicle, you should take it in for repairs at your local dealership. Your vehicle’s manufacturer is required to repair the defect FREE of charge, so you don’t have to worry about paying out of pocket for repairs.

Injured Due to a Defective Vehicle?

You and your family deserve to drive a vehicle that is safe and free of defects. However, if you were injured due to a defective vehicle or an auto part, you may be able to file a product liability claim against the manufacturer or another negligent party. Fowler | Helsel | Vogt can review your case for free and pursue compensation and justice on your behalf.

Contact our Fresno product liability attorneys at (559) 900-1280 to schedule your free case review today!