BOISE – It’s nearly the end of Vehicle Safety Recalls Week, and AAA is joining the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in reminding vehicle owners to take care of any recalls before tragedy strikes.
In 2024 alone, NHTSA reports that there were 1,073 safety recalls affecting more than 35 million vehicles in the U.S.
“If a vehicle has a defect or deficiency that increases the risk of harm, a recall is issued to notify the public and to provide guidance for automakers to address the problem,” says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. “Even if you don’t personally have a vehicle that’s been affected by a recall, it’s wise to remind friends and family members to keep up on needed repairs.”
Vehicle owners can search for open recalls at NHTSA.gov/recalls. Simply enter your VIN or license plate number to ensure your car has a clean bill of health (the VIN is located on the lower portion of the car windshield and may also appear on your insurance card).
Drivers can also download the free SaferCar app. Once in the app, enter your VIN. If a safety recall is issued for that vehicle, you’ll receive a notification through the app. You’ll also be directed to a list of local dealerships that can schedule an appointment to complete the repair.
SaferCar app users can also add other vehicle-related equipment just in case, including tires, trailers, and car seats.
“Remember, if your car is under recall, vehicle manufacturers will take care of it quickly and for free,” Conde said. “Fixing any issues that may arise is a partnership – automakers want to do it, the driving public needs it done, and the benefits are clear for everyone involved.”