How to Check for Recalls on Your German Car

You can check for open recalls on your German car for free by entering your 17-character VIN on the NHTSA recall lookup. If your car has an open safety recall, the brand's authorized dealer will fix it for free. It's smart to check at least twice a year, and always before buying a used car.

Here's how it works.

How do I check my car for recalls?

1. Find your VIN. It's on your registration, insurance card, and the lower corner of the windshield on the driver's side.
2. Enter it on NHTSA.gov/recalls. The tool shows open safety recalls from roughly the last 15 years.
3. Check the brand's own site too. BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, VW, MINI, and Porsche each have owner sites where you can look up your VIN.

Keep in mind that the newest recalls may take a little time to show up. NHTSA also offers recall alerts by email and an app.

What happens if my car has a recall?

Call a dealer for your brand and schedule the recall repair. Safety recall repairs are done at no cost to you. Sometimes parts aren't available right away, and the dealer will let you know when they are.

Read the recall notice carefully. Some recalls say to park outside or do not drive until the repair is done. Take those warnings seriously.

What's the difference between a recall and a service bulletin?

• A safety recall is issued when a car or part has a safety-related defect or doesn't meet safety standards. The repair is free.
• A technical service bulletin (TSB) is guidance from the manufacturer to help shops fix a known issue. It's not a recall, and the repair isn't automatically free unless you're still covered by a warranty.
• Extended warranty programs from the manufacturer sometimes cover a specific part for longer than normal. Your dealer can tell you if one applies.

A shop that knows German cars keeps up with common bulletins and known issues, which can make diagnosis faster.

Should I check recalls on a used car?

Yes. Open recalls can stay with a car through multiple owners. Check the VIN before you buy and ask the seller about any open recalls. Safety recall repairs are generally free no matter how many owners the car has had. It's also a great time for a pre-purchase inspection.

Can an independent shop do recall work?

No. Free recall repairs are done by authorized dealers. But an independent shop can help you spot whether a problem is related to a recall, and handle all your other maintenance and repairs.

Frequently asked questions

Is it free to check for recalls?

Yes. The NHTSA recall lookup is free, and you only need your VIN.

How often should I check for recalls?

NHTSA recommends checking at least twice a year. Also keep your mailing address up to date with the DMV so recall letters reach you.

Do I have to be the original owner to get a recall fixed?

No. Safety recall repairs are generally free for later owners too. If your car is older, confirm the details with the dealer for your specific recall.

Will a recall repair cost me anything?

Safety recall repairs at an authorized dealer are free. If you paid for a repair before a recall was announced, ask the manufacturer about reimbursement.

Questions about a recall or a problem? Call us

If something feels off with your car, we're happy to take a look and help you figure out whether it's a recall item or something we can fix. German Autowerke has been family-owned in Oceanside since 1989.

Call (760) 721-3321.