Repair 7

How to Search Recalls by VIN Number

Manufacturer car recalls can range from serious mechanical failure such as brake or engine issues to less severe problems like a faulty knob or light. Nevertheless, keeping your car current with recalls is important to maintain the vehicles safety. Manufacturers will send out a recall notice and there are searchable databases on the Internet to check on recall statuses, but the only way to check recall information using the vehicle identification number (VIN) is to search the manufacturer database.

Instructions

1

Write down your VIN. The 17-digit VIN will be located on the dashboard of the drivers side near the windshield. You can also find the VIN on the front of the engine block or the front of the vehicles frame in the wheel base.

2

Contact your local dealerships service department or a repair shop certified by the manufacturer of your car.

3

Ask the associate in the service department to run your VIN through the manufacturer database for any outstanding recall information. Running the VIN through the manufacturer database will provide specific information for your vehicle.