This year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recognizes March 4 through March 10 as Vehicle Safety Recalls Week. Staying aware of safety recalls is key to ensuring your motor vehicle is safe to operate on our state roadways, and there are many ways to keep yourself informed. NHTSA urges motorists to check twice per year for safety recalls for their vehicles or automotive equipment (such as airbags, bike racks, roof racks, etc.).

In 2022, there were 1,050 safety incident recalls that affected more than 31 million vehicles and other motor-vehicle-related equipment in the United States.

To help keep yourself and loved ones safe inside and outside your vehicle, use NHTSA’s free user-friendly recall look-up tool. At nhtsa.gov/recalls, motorists can check if there are open safety recalls for their vehicles by entering their 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This tool can provide details on any unrepaired recalls for your vehicle for at least the past 15 calendar years. This includes details on unrepaired safety recalls from major auto makers and manufacturers.

Need help finding your VIN on your vehicle?

• Look for the 17-character VIN on the lower left of your car’s windshield.
• Check the label inside your driver-side doorjamb.
• You may also find your VIN on your vehicle’s registration or your insurance documents.

You can also sign up for recall alerts at odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/nhtsa/subscriptions, which will alert you via email if your vehicle is included in a future recall. NHTSA is hosting this week to coincide with daylight saving time, which begins on March 10, as this is the perfect time of year to remember to check your vehicle for safety recalls. Be sure to spring forward, check for recalls, and remember that safe cars save lives.