Checking your vehicle for recalls
How NHTSA describes its recall search and the recall process.
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The NHTSA search
NHTSA says its recall page lets you "Search vehicles, car seats, tires and other equipment for safety recalls, investigations, complaints and manufacturer communication."
Where NHTSA says to look
NHTSA says: "Look on the lower left of your car's windshield for your 17-character VIN." It says your VIN is also on your registration card.
What a recall is
NHTSA says: "A recall is issued when a manufacturer or NHTSA determines that a vehicle, equipment, car seat, or tire creates an unreasonable safety risk or fails to meet minimum safety standards."
How owners hear
NHTSA says: "Manufacturers will notify registered owners by first class mail within 60 days of notifying NHTSA of a recall decision."
What the search will not show
NHTSA lists what the search will not show, including a safety recall that has already been repaired, safety recalls conducted by small vehicle manufacturers, and safety recalls that are more than 15 years old, "except where a manufacturer offers more coverage."
Report a problem
NHTSA says you can file a complaint about a possible safety defect, and that "Your complaint will be added to a public NHTSA database after personally identifying information is removed."
Sources: NHTSA, Check for Recalls.
FAQ
General information only. We are not a glass shop, insurer, or agent, and we do not schedule, quote, or refer. Whether your policy covers glass damage, and what you would pay, depend on your policy and your insurer; read your policy and ask your insurer or agent. If your vehicle has driver assistance features, follow your vehicle maker's instructions and owner's manual on any calibration after glass work.
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