Comments on: How to look up automobile recalls by VIN?

Question: How to look up automobile recalls by VIN?

originalboo — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 15:22:18 -0800

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?

By: originalboo

originalboo — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 15:26:08 -0800

Correction...is there a FREE search engine to find recall information specific to a particular VIN?

By: fixedgear

fixedgear — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 15:43:37 -0800

Possibly on this DOT page?

By: dirtynumbangelboy

dirtynumbangelboy — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 15:59:36 -0800

Why not just call Honda? Their CSRs would be able to tell you this in about three seconds.

By: !Jim

!Jim — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 16:13:37 -0800

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.

By: booticon

booticon — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 16:29:51 -0800

In addition to your dealership, your insurance company may have recall information. If you have an online account with them check there.

By: phytage

phytage — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 16:30:35 -0800

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.

By: bengilbert

bengilbert — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 17:07:55 -0800

Although not searchable by VIN, you might try the Edmunds website. It gives both service information and technical service bulletins.

By: sanka

sanka — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 19:11:15 -0800

Go to NHTSA

You can look up all recalls and product defects based on model and year for any vehicle.

By: fixedgear

fixedgear — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 19:32:17 -0800

Err, NHTSA = exactly what I posted.

By: originalboo

originalboo — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 15:16:05 -0800

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.