Toyota Lexus Subaru Recall

How to Check if Your Car Has a Recall and What to Do Next? 

Car recalls happen more often than you may realize, and ignoring them can put your safety at risk. A recall is issued when a manufacturer or safety authority identifies a defect that could affect performance, compliance, or driver safety. The good news? Most recall-related repairs are completely free. Here’s a step-by-step guide to check for recalls and make sure your car stays road-safe.

Step 1: Locate Your VIN

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is your car’s unique fingerprint. It’s usually found on the driver’s side dashboard (visible through the windshield), inside the driver’s door frame, or on your registration documents. You’ll need this number to search for recalls.

Step 2: Use Official Recall Portals

Instead of relying on third-party websites, always check through your manufacturer’s official recall pages. Simply enter your VIN, and you’ll instantly see if your vehicle is affected:

Toyota: www.toyota.com/recall

Lexus: www.lexus.com/recall

Subaru: www.subaru.com/recalls.html

These portals also provide details about the recall and instructions on what to do next.

Step 3: Confirm Through NHTSA

For drivers in the United States, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) maintains a central database of recalls. Visit nhtsa.gov/recalls, enter your VIN, and see if your car is listed. This is especially useful if you own a pre-owned vehicle or recently imported one.

Step 4: Contact Your Local Dealership

If your car shows up on the recall list, don’t delay. Call your nearest authorized dealership and provide your VIN. They will:

Verify the recall status

Schedule a free repair appointment

Explain how long the fix will take

Important: Recall repairs are always free of charge, no matter the car’s age or warranty status.

Step 5: Sign Up for Recall Alerts

New recalls can happen anytime, even years after you purchase your car. To stay informed, sign up for free alerts through NHTSA:

Visit nhtsa.gov/alerts

Enter your email and vehicle information

Get notified automatically if future recalls affect your car

This way, you’ll never miss a safety update.