Safety & Recall Guides
Expert, step-by-step instructions and comprehensive articles to help you navigate vehicle safety issues.
Are recall repairs really free? The 15-year rule explained
Safety recall repairs are free under federal law, but only for 15 years. Learn how the window works and what to do if a dealer tries to charge you.
What to do if your car has a recall: a step-by-step guide
Got a recall notice? Confirm it's your car, book the free repair, and handle back-ordered parts with this step-by-step safety recall guide.
How to check if your car has a recall by VIN
Find your VIN, run a free recall check in two minutes, and learn exactly what your results mean, including what a 0 unrepaired recalls result tells you.
Can I keep driving a car with an open recall?
Usually yes, but two warnings change everything. Learn when an open recall is safe to drive with and when to stop driving immediately.
Can a dealer sell or rent a car with an open recall?
New cars and rentals usually can't have open recalls, but used cars are a loophole. Know the rules and protect yourself before you buy.