What a recall is
NHTSA explains that 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. Manufacturers must fix the problem by repairing it, replacing it, offering a refund or, in rare cases, repurchasing the vehicle. NHTSA notes that most recall decisions are made voluntarily by manufacturers.
How the check works
NHTSA offers a search by VIN on its recalls page. The VIN identifies the exact vehicle, so the result is more specific than a search by make and model. NHTSA says its VIN lookup can show recall information provided by the manufacturer that may not yet be posted on its own site. See VIN.
Why shops run it
- Safety. An open recall may affect brakes, steering, fuel or other safety systems.
- Customer service. Fleets want to know about open recalls on their units.
- Records. Noting the check on the work order shows the shop looked.
- Right repair path. Recall remedies are normally done by authorized dealers at no charge to the owner, so the shop can refer the work instead of billing for it.
When to run it
At first visit for a new unit, at each PM service, and before major repairs on a system that may be covered by a recall. Record the date of the check and the result.
Limits
NHTSA describes questions about what the license plate and VIN search will not show, so a clear result is not a guarantee. Some equipment, such as aftermarket components, may be covered by separate equipment recalls. Owners should also register vehicles and equipment for recall notices. NHTSA states that manufacturers notify registered owners by first class mail within 60 days of notifying NHTSA of a recall decision.
Good practice
Capture the VIN accurately from the vehicle, run the check, note the result on the work order, and tell the customer in writing about any open recall.
MetaFleet supports VIN photo scan and work orders. Get a walkthrough.