Check Recall by VIN: Find Out If Your Ford Has an Open Recall

Check Recall by VIN: Find Out If Your Ford Has an Open Recall

White Pickup Truck Parked on Side of the Road

Ever notice how your morning coffee tastes better when your car isn’t randomly stalling due to an unresolved recall? Check recall by VIN to ensure your ride stays safer than a cat landing on its feet—because nobody wants unexpected surprises on the road.

This guide will show you how to check recall by VIN, what to do if your vehicle has an open recall, and why recall checks are crucial for every Ford owner.

Protect yourself! Don’t Wait—Check Ford Recalls by VIN!

Why Checking Ford Recalls by VIN Is Important

When Ford or NHTSA identifies a safety defect, they issue a recall to fix the problem before it turns into a serious hazard. Ignoring these recalls isn’t just a gamble—it puts you, your passengers, and everyone else on the road at risk.

Ford has had its fair share of recalls over the years, with some standing out more than others. Notable among these are:

Powertrain Problems Since 2010, Ford has issued 545 safety recalls, with powertrain issues—encompassing engine and transmission defects—being the most prevalent (Source: Visual Capitalist).
Airbag Defects Ford has been significantly impacted by the Takata airbag recall, the largest in U.S. history. In August 2024, the company issued “Do Not Drive” warnings for over 457,000 vehicles equipped with these defective airbags. And these have been linked to injuries and fatalities (Source: Axios).
Brake System Failures In October 2024, NHTSA initiated an investigation into approximately 360,000 Ford Edge vehicles from model years 2015 to 2017. The probe focuses on potential brake hose defects that could lead to brake fluid leaks and increased stopping distances. And they heighten the risk of crashes (Source: The Sun (Source: The Sun).
Electrical System Malfunctions Electrical issues have also been a concern. In March 2025, Ford recalled over 35,000 vehicles due to faulty LED lights in exterior mirrors (Source: Reuters).
Fuel System Leaks In May 2024, Ford recalled nearly 43,000 SUVs due to gas leaks that could lead to engine compartment fires. The remedy provided, however, did not address the actual leaks, raising safety concerns (Source: AP News). 

By using a check recall by VIN tool, you can figure your Ford has been affected by any recalls. This will help you take the necessary steps to get it fixed for free.

How to Check Recall Status for Your Ford Using a VIN Lookup

The process to check recall by VIN is simple. Here’s how:

Step 1: Locate Your Ford’s VIN

Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique 17-character identifier assigned to your vehicle. You can find it in the following locations:

  1. Dashboard: Peek through the windshield on the driver’s side.
  2. Driver’s Door Jamb: Open the door and check the sticker or metal plate inside the frame.
  3. Vehicle Documents: It’s printed on your registration, insurance card, and title.
  4. Owner’s Manual: Some Ford models include it here.
  5. Under the Hood: Look for a plate or sticker in the engine bay or on the firewall.
  6. Spare Tire Well: Some models have it under the trunk’s spare tire cover.
  7. Frame & Chassis: Older models may have the VIN stamped on the chassis.

Step 2: Use an Online VIN Recall Check Tool

Once you have your VIN, you can check Ford recalls by VIN using these methods:

  • Ford’s Official Recall Lookup: Visit Ford recall page and enter your VIN.
  • NHTSA Recall Lookup: Go to NHTSA.gov/recalls and enter your VIN.
  • Free VIN Recall Checks: Websites like VinCheck.info can also provide recall details instantly.

What to Do If Your Ford Has an Open Recall

If your Ford is recalled, don’t ignore it—here’s how to get it fixed quickly and hassle-free:

Step 1: Check Recall by VIN via Local Ford Dealership

Authorized Ford dealerships handle recall repairs for free. Call your nearest Ford service center to schedule an appointment.

Step 2: Get the Recall Repair Completed

Take your Ford to the dealership at the scheduled time. The dealership will:

  • Inspect your vehicle for the recall issue.
  • Get the repair or replacement done at no cost to you. If that’s not an option, you should receive a refund based on the car’s or part’s value.
  • Conduct a post-repair check to ensure the issue has been resolved.

Step 3: Keep Records of the Recall Repair

After your recall repair is complete, ensure the following:

  • Getting a repair receipt.
  • A confirmation that the recall has been resolved.
  • Receiving any additional service recommendations from the dealership.

The repair receipt is useful for:

  • Future resale, as buyers may ask for proof of recall compliance.
  • Service history tracking in case of related issues later on.

Step 4: Monitor for Future Recalls

Even after addressing a recall, stay proactive by:

  • Regularly checking your VIN for new recalls.
  • Signing up for recall alerts on the NHTSA or Ford website.
  • Keep your contact information updated with Ford and your dealership.

Common Ford Models Affected by Recalls

Ford has recently issued several recalls affecting various vehicle models. Notable examples include:

Model Name & Year Total Units Issue
2020-2021 Ford Explorer  240,510 Recalled due to improperly secured seat belt buckle anchor bolts, which could compromise occupant safety (Source: Reuters). 
2013 – 2016 Ford Fusion 270,000 Recalled due to a potential issue where a bushing holding the transmission lever safety cable could detach. This could potentially lead to rollaway incidents (Source: Detroit Free Press).
2013 – 2014 Ford Escape 692,700 The doors failed to latch properly due to a broken pawl in the door latch. This issue could prevent the doors from closing or cause them to open while the vehicle is in motion (Source: The Globe and Mail).

How Often Should You Check for Ford Recalls?

Stay ahead of potential safety issues. Check recall by VIN regularly:

✔️ Every 3-6 months – Recalls can pop up anytime, so it’s smart to check a few times a year.

✔️ Before buying a used Ford – Run the VIN through Ford’s recall lookup or the NHTSA site to avoid surprises.

✔️ During routine maintenance – Ask your Ford dealer to check for recalls while your car’s already in the shop.

✔️ If you get a recall notice – Don’t wait! Schedule repairs ASAP to keep your car safe and roadworthy.

Benefits of Regular Recall Checks

Staying on top of recalls isn’t just smart—it’s essential. Here’s why:

  • Safety Assurance – Catch hidden dangers like faulty brakes, airbags, or engine flaws before they become a real threat.
  • Cost Savings – Recall repairs are free, sparing you from costly fixes down the road.
  • Vehicle Longevity – Fixing issues early prevents bigger problems and extends your vehicle’s life.
  • Legal Compliance – Ensures your car meets safety standards and keeps you out of legal trouble.
  • Resale Value Protection – A recall-free, well-maintained car is more appealing to buyers.
  • Peace of Mind – No more worrying about hidden defects lurking under the hood.
  • Insurance Considerations – Unresolved recalls can affect claims or even coverage eligibility.
  • Enhanced Performance – Many recalls fix drivability issues, improving how your car handles and runs.

Final Thoughts

Checking Ford recalls by VIN is a quick and effective way to ensure your vehicle is safe and compliant with manufacturer safety standards. With free repair services available at authorized dealerships, there’s no reason to delay addressing an open recall.

Stay ahead of the game—run a Free VIN Recall Check with VinCheck.info and hit the road with peace of mind!