What to do if you bought a car with an open recall

Author: Mariano · Last updated: October 12, 2026

If you found out the car you bought has an unrepaired recall, don’t panic: in most cases the fix is free and any dealer of the brand can do it. Here are the steps.

1. Confirm with the VIN

The model having recalls doesn’t mean your car has them open. Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls, enter your VIN and you’ll see whether that unit has any unrepaired safety recalls. You can also search on the manufacturer’s website.

2. Check whether it’s urgent

Some recalls carry special warnings:

“Park It” / do not drive: the manufacturer and NHTSA advise not using the car until it’s repaired. Ask for it to be towed to the dealer; many manufacturers cover that.
“Park Outside”: there’s a fire risk even when the car is off. Park it away from your home and other buildings until it’s repaired.

Air bag recalls (such as Takata inflators) are also high priority.

3. Book the repair at a dealer

Call any authorized dealer of the brand (it doesn’t have to be where the car was sold).
Give them the VIN and the campaign number.
Ask whether parts are available, how long it takes, and whether they offer a loaner or a ride.
The repair is free: it doesn’t matter that you’re not the first owner or that the warranty expired. The legal exception is for vehicles first sold more than 15 years ago, and even then many manufacturers still fix them.

4. Get the car in your name to receive notices

Recall notices are mailed to the registered owner. After transferring the title and registering the car in your name, you can also update your details on the manufacturer’s website so they notify you of future recalls.

5. Keep the receipt

When it’s done, ask for the repair order showing the recall was completed. It’s good for peace of mind and for when you sell the car.

6. If you paid for a repair before the recall

If you had already paid to fix that same problem before the recall came out, ask the manufacturer about its reimbursement plan. Have the invoice ready.

If you’re turned away

Insist that it’s a safety recall and give the campaign number.
Call the manufacturer’s customer service (the number is in the official recall text).
If it’s still not resolved, contact NHTSA’s hotline: 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or file a complaint at nhtsa.gov/report-a-safety-problem.

Frequently asked questions

Can I go after the seller for not telling me about the recall?

Federal law doesn't prohibit a dealer or private party from selling a used car with an open recall. What matters is that the repair is still free for you at the brand's dealer.

Will I get recall notices if the manufacturer doesn't have me as the owner?

Notices go to the registered owner. That is why you should get the title and registration in your name and update your details with the manufacturer.