What to Do If Your Car Is Recalled

If you discover your vehicle has an open recall, follow these steps. Confirm the campaign and repair eligibility with the manufacturer.

Step 1: Read the Recall Notice

If you received a recall notice by mail, read it carefully. It will describe the defect, the safety risk, and the manufacturer's remedy (usually a free repair, replacement, or refund). If you found the recall online, look up the NHTSA campaign number for the full details.

Step 2: Check If It's a "Do Not Drive" Recall

Some recalls are severe enough that NHTSA or the manufacturer advises owners to stop driving the vehicle immediately. These are rare but serious - typically involving fire risk or sudden loss of steering/braking. If the recall notice says "do not drive" or "park outside," follow that guidance and contact your dealer for a tow.

Step 3: Contact an Authorized Dealer

Call any authorized dealer for your vehicle's make (it does not have to be the dealer you bought from) and schedule a recall repair appointment. Have your VIN ready - the dealer will verify the recall applies to your specific vehicle.

Step 4: Arrange the Recall Remedy

Follow the manufacturer's remedy instructions and confirm which repair, replacement, or refund applies to your campaign.

• Ask which parts and labor are covered by the recall remedy.
• If the repair is unavailable or unsuccessful, ask the manufacturer about the next step.
• Keep receipts for earlier related repairs and check the campaign's reimbursement conditions.

Federal law generally requires a recall remedy without charge, subject to exceptions. Under 49 U.S.C. 30120(g)(1), that requirement does not apply when the first purchase was more than 15 calendar years before the earlier recall notice or order. Tires have separate rules. This is not an automatic expiration when a vehicle turns 15. Confirm your campaign's remedy and eligibility with the manufacturer. See 49 U.S.C. 30120.

Your Rights

• Check eligibility: An older vehicle may still qualify. Age alone does not establish the remedy available for a particular campaign.
• Confirm charges: Ask the manufacturer to explain any proposed charge and distinguish the recall remedy from unrelated repairs.
• Reimbursement: If you paid for a repair before the recall was announced, contact the manufacturer to check reimbursement eligibility. Keep your receipt.
• Loaner vehicle: Some manufacturers provide a loaner vehicle or rental car reimbursement while your car is being repaired. Ask the dealer.

If the Dealer Won't Help

If you have trouble getting a recall repair, you can:

1. Contact the manufacturer's customer service directly (phone number is on the recall notice)
2. File a complaint with NHTSA at nhtsa.gov/report-a-safety-problem
3. Call NHTSA's Vehicle Safety Hotline: 1-888-327-4236