Your Car Has an Open Recall – Now What? Steps to Get It Fixed

Ignoring a recall is like neglecting a weird noise in your house at night—sure, it might be nothing, but do you really want to take that chance? Check recalls by VIN to reveal if your car has a lurking safety issue, so you can fix it before it turns into a real-life horror story on the highway.

Run a Free VIN Recall Check Now – check recalls by VIN to stay safe on the road!

Step 1: Check Recalls by VIN

Before fixing a recall, you need to know if your car is affected. A recall VIN check gives you the latest recall info. Here’s how to do it:

1. Locate Your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number):

Look on the dashboard near the windshield, inside the driver’s door frame, or in your vehicle paperwork (registration, title, insurance card, owner’s manual, or bill of sale).

2. Use an Online Recall Check Tool:

Go to a reliable recall lookup site like VinCheck.info and enter your VIN.

You can also check directly on the manufacturer’s website for recall details and repair options.

• GM (Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, Buick) – GM.com
• Ford – Ford.com
• Toyota – Toyota.com
• Honda – Honda.com
• Nissan – NissanUSA.com
• Hyundai – HyundaiUSA.com
• Mazda – MazdaUSA.com
• Subaru – Subaru.com
• Volkswagen – VW.com
• BMW – BMWUSA.com
• Mercedes-Benz – MBUSA.com
• Chrysler (Stellantis) (Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat) – Mopar.com
• Kia – Kia.com
• Mitsubishi – MitsubishiCars.com
• Tesla – Tesla.com
• Jaguar Land Rover – JaguarUSA.com | LandRoverUSA.com
• Volvo – VolvoCars.com
• Porsche – Porsche.com
• Audi – AudiUSA.com
• Lexus – Lexus.com
• Acura – Acura.com
• Infiniti – InfinitiUSA.com
• Mini – MiniUSA.com
• Genesis – GenesisMotorsUSA.com
• Rivian – Rivian.com
• Polestar – Polestar.com
  

3. Review the Recall Details:

Spot the problem, find which parts are affected, and determine if it’s a serious safety hazard or just an inconvenience.

Step 2: Contact Your Dealership for Free Repairs

If your car has a recall, don’t wait—get it fixed for free as soon as possible. Here’s how:

Find the Right Dealer – First, check your recall notice or search online for an authorized service center nearby. Only certified dealers can complete recall repairs, so be sure to choose the right one.

Book Your Repair – Next, call the dealership and provide your VIN to confirm they have the necessary parts in stock. If they do, schedule an appointment. Many dealers also offer easy online booking for added convenience.

No Charge, No Exceptions – Best of all, recall repairs are always free, even for older cars or those without a warranty. If a dealer tries to charge you, ask for written proof and immediately contact the manufacturer.

Get Proof of Repair – Before leaving, always ask for a repair receipt. This document helps with future maintenance and even increases your car’s resale value.

Check for More Recalls – Finally, some cars have more than one recall, so be sure to check again. Ask the dealer to look up any additional recalls, or search online by VIN to avoid missing anything.

Step 3: Understand Recall Types & Safety Risks

Not all recalls require immediate action, but some can be serious safety hazards. Recalls generally fall into these categories:

If your recall falls into the safety recall category, prioritize getting it fixed as soon as possible. A recall VIN check can help determine if your vehicle has any unresolved recalls.

Step 4: Things to Do While Waiting for Repairs

If repairs are delayed due to part shortages or scheduling issues, take these extra precautions:

✅ Avoid Dangerous Driving – Do not drive if the recall affects brakes, airbags, or steering. It’s too risky.

✅ Follow Manufacturer’s Advice – Use any temporary safety steps the automaker suggests to lower your risk.

✅ Check for Part Availability – Stay in touch with your dealer to see when replacement parts arrive.

✅ Ask About Loaner Cars – Some brands offer free rental cars for safety-related recalls. Always check with the dealer.

✅ Park If Necessary – If your car could catch fire or suddenly stall, park it until it’s safe to use.

✅ Track Recall Updates – Visit the NHTSA website or your carmaker’s recall tool for the latest repair status.

✅ Watch for Warning Signs – If your car starts acting up, stop driving right away and call your dealer.

✅ Review Your Warranty – Check if your warranty or extended coverage includes extra repairs during the recall.

Step 5: Keep Records of the Recall Repair

After your recall is completed, maintain documentation for future reference:

Verify the Recall Repair

• After service, inspect the repaired component to ensure proper function.
• Test-drive the vehicle to confirm that the issue has been resolved.
• Report any lingering problems to the dealership immediately.

Understand Warranty Coverage Post-Recall

• Ask the dealership if the recall repair includes an extended warranty on the affected component.
• Keep documentation of any additional coverage provided by the manufacturer.

Check for Outstanding Recalls Regularly

• Use your VIN to check recalls by VIN on the NHTSA website or manufacturer’s recall lookup tool.
• Sign up for recall notifications from the manufacturer or government agencies.

Schedule Recall Repairs Promptly

• Contact the dealership as soon as you receive a recall notice to avoid delays.
• Be flexible with appointment scheduling to ensure timely service.

Confirm Recall Completion with Manufacturer

• Request verification from the manufacturer that the recall has been completed.
• Some automakers update online recall records after repairs are done—check their website for confirmation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Fix a Car Recall at Any Repair Shop?

No. Recall repairs must be done at an authorized dealership to be covered under the manufacturer’s recall policy.

What If My Car Has Multiple Recalls?

You can have multiple recall repairs completed at once if the parts and services are available. Check recalls by VIN when running a VIN recall lookup.

Do Recalls Expire?

Most manufacturer recalls do not have an expiration date, but some older recalls may become difficult to service due to discontinued parts. Act promptly to ensure free repairs.

Can I Get a Rental Car While My Vehicle Is Being Repaired?

For severe safety recalls, some automakers provide free loaner vehicles. Check with your dealer for availability.

Final Thoughts

Got an open recall? Don’t wait—act now! A quick recall VIN check can reveal any safety issues, letting you book a free repair with an authorized dealership. Protect yourself, your passengers, and your car’s value by staying ahead of recalls. 

Don’t risk it—check it! Check recalls by VIN now to see if your car has an open recall. It’s fast, free, and could save lives.