Over 40 million cars are recalled every year in America, according to AutoInsurance.com. In 2025, there were roughly 3.2 million recalls per car manufacturer.
Cars, trucks, and SUVs are recalled for everything from small tech nuisances to major mechanical defects — from software glitches to faulty engine components that could cause fires.
What should you do if you think a recall impacts your vehicle? Here’s a step-by-step guide to searching for recalls on your car and addressing them as quickly as possible.
What Should You Do if You Think Your Car Is Being Recalled?
If you think your car is part of a recall, you should immediately verify using the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s recall database. Once you enter your VIN (vehicle identification number) or the year, make, and model of your vehicle, pressing search will populate recall results on that vehicle.
If you click the blue number of recalls for a vehicle, the NHTSA site will display all recalls on the model, including descriptions. You can then identify the severity of the issue and determine whether it requires an immediate fix through an authorized dealer.
The NHTSA’s recall description includes a remedy section that often provides contact information for drivers to receive guidance on next steps from manufacturers. You can also contact your local authorized dealer directly to see if it handles recall repairs to your vehicle.
Recall repairs are generally free of charge and covered by the manufacturer.
What Happens if You Don’t Repair Your Car Following a Recall?
There are several serious consequences you can face if you ignore a recall on your vehicle.
Safety risks are a major reason why drivers should promptly schedule repairs once they are aware of a recall. Issues with mechanical components can cause crashes or immobility. Additionally, airbag-related recalls can lead to serious injuries if left unaddressed.
You can be held legally liable for damages or injuries to other motorists or pedestrians if your vehicle does not operate properly because of an issue for which it has been recalled. To stay on the safe side, get your vehicle repaired as quickly as possible, even if the issue seems minor at first.
Does Every Car Recall Require a Trip to the Dealership?
OTA (Over-The-Air) software updates have changed the game for recalls. Since modern cars are so heavily reliant on software for displays and operational actions, automakers can issue recalls via wireless updates.
Tesla is an example of a car brand that regularly issues software patches, updates, and upgrades wirelessly, so drivers don’t have to take their vehicles to a dealership service center in some cases. The more advanced modern cars get, the more problems automakers can remotely solve for drivers.
Aside from OTA updates, car brands also offer mobile repair services in some cases, sending factory-certified technicians to service your vehicle instead of you having to drive it to a service center. Some dealerships also offer delivery services so you can get your recall repair done without ever leaving your home.
When it comes to car recalls, it can be extremely dangerous to delay repairs. Staying up to date with fixes is a great way to ensure your vehicle is in the best driving condition possible.
Add a Comment