From March 2nd to March 8th, the United States will observe National Vehicle Safety Recalls week, emphasizing the necessity of monitoring vehicle recalls. The initiative, led by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), encourages drivers to be vigilant about recalls throughout the year, although it coincides with spring cleaning.
In 2024, there were over 35 million vehicles impacted by 1,073 safety recalls, according to NHTSA data. Vehicle owners can easily check for open recalls by entering their VIN on the NHTSA website. This 17-character number can typically be found on the driver’s side dashboard, on registration documents, or insurance cards. Additionally, the SaferCar app is available for both iOS and Android users, providing notifications for new recalls.
Those considering purchasing a used vehicle can utilize the NHTSA database to search by year, make, and model for any relevant recalls, investigations, or complaints. The NHTSA also offers resources for reporting safety defects, which can be submitted via an online form or a dedicated hotline.