How to Check a Used Car for Open Recalls in Texas

I’m Deborah at Testarossa Motors in League City. Before anyone signs for a car, I want them to know whether it has an open safety recall. It takes about two minutes and it’s free.

Find the VIN

The 17-character VIN is on the driver-side dash (look through the windshield), the driver door jamb sticker, and the title. Make sure all three match.

Run the free NHTSA recall lookup

Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls, enter the VIN, and you’ll see any unrepaired recall from the last 15 years. “0 unrepaired recalls” means the repairs on file are done. You can also check the brand’s own owner site with the same VIN.

Who pays to fix an open recall?

Safety recall repairs are done free at a franchise dealer for that brand, no matter who owns the car or how old it is. Call the service department with the VIN to book it, and ask how long parts will take.

Can a used car be sold with an open recall in Texas?

Yes. Independent dealers and private sellers can legally sell a used car with an open recall, so checking is on you. At our lot, ask me and I’ll run the VIN with you.

Other free VIN checks worth running

• NICB VINCheck (theft and total-loss records)
• Texas title check through TxDMV

Paid history reports add accident and service records; we don’t offer free history reports, so ask what’s available.

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