How to look up automobile recalls by VIN?

August 13, 2008 3:22 PM

I have searched and searched for a website that will allow me to enter my car's VIN to determine if a particular Honda recall (for 2002 Civic EX) applies specifically to my car. Honda's website has a service that seems to include a VIN lookup but they want a ridiculous amount of information including leinholder information, etc. Is there a website out there to find important recall information specific to a car's VIN?
posted by originalboo to law & government (10 comments total)

Correction...is there a FREE search engine to find recall information specific to a particular VIN?
posted by originalboo at 3:26 PM on August 13, 2008

Possibly on this DOT page?
posted by fixedgear at 3:43 PM on August 13, 2008

Why not just call Honda? Their CSRs would be able to tell you this in about three seconds.
posted by dirtynumbangelboy at 3:59 PM on August 13, 2008

Seconding DNAB, with the addition that you should be able to call your local Honda dealership (or your regular mechanic, if you have one) and ask them about it. I know my mechanic (who is not Honda affiliated) was able to just look this up for me.
posted by !Jim at 4:13 PM on August 13, 2008

In addition to your dealership, your insurance company may have recall information. If you have an online account with them check there.
posted by booticon at 4:29 PM on August 13, 2008

I just found out via internet search about 4 recalls on my model year Dodge. I called my dealership and they looked up the information for me, for free. They were very courteous.
posted by phytage at 4:30 PM on August 13, 2008

Although not searchable by VIN, you might try the Edmunds website. It gives both service information and technical service bulletins.
posted by bengilbert at 5:07 PM on August 13, 2008

Go to NHTSA

You can look up all recalls and product defects based on model and year for any vehicle.
posted by sanka at 7:11 PM on August 13, 2008

Err, NHTSA = exactly what I posted.
posted by fixedgear at 7:32 PM on August 13, 2008

Thanks, all, for the suggestions. I have been a little reluctant to go to the dealer where I bought the car simply because I've already been given the runaround from a mechanic on this recall. The problem I'm having is with the headlights and though not exactly what the recall info says might happen, I still want to be sure my vehicle is or is not included in the recall. Guess I tend to be less than trusting when it comes to car issues.
posted by originalboo at 3:16 PM on August 15, 2008