By Nuttall Brown & Coutts
How do I check my VIN for a recall?
Find the vehicle identification number (VIN) on the vehicle or its paperwork, then open the CPSC recall notice for that vehicle type. Recall notices usually list who to contact and how to check whether a VIN is included. Write down the result and the date you checked, or save a screenshot.
- Find the VIN on the vehicle or on your title, registration or purchase papers.
- Open the CPSC notice for your type of vehicle on our recalls page.
- Follow the notice's instructions and contact details for checking a VIN.
- Write down what you find and the date you checked, or take a screenshot.
A recall does not mean any one vehicle caused a fire. Some recalled vehicles may already have been repaired. Each CPSC notice describes the remedy and how to check a vehicle.
If the vehicle burned and the VIN plate is damaged, don't try to clean or remove anything. Purchase papers, registration and insurance records often list the VIN.
Where is the VIN on an ATV or side-by-side?
On many off-road vehicles the VIN is stamped into the frame and may also appear on a label. The owner's manual usually shows where your maker puts it. If you can't find it on the vehicle, check the title, registration, purchase contract, insurance card or service invoices.
Take a clear photo of the VIN where you find it, and a second photo showing where it is on the vehicle. Check that the characters match your paperwork. A single wrong character can give you the wrong answer when you look up a recall.
Is NHTSA's VIN lookup the right place to check?
Usually not for off-road vehicles. NHTSA handles cars, trucks and on-road motorcycles, while CPSC covers off-road vehicles such as ATVs and ROVs (CPSC jurisdiction page (opens in new tab)). Off-road recalls are announced by CPSC, and the notice tells you how to check a vehicle with the maker or dealer.
Start with our recalls page or search CPSC recalls (opens in new tab) for your make and model. Each notice has a "Remedy" section and contact details for the company.
What if the recall repair was already done?
A dealer can often tell you whether a recall repair was completed on a VIN. Ask for that in writing, with the date and the work performed. Keep the repair invoice. A completed repair is useful information, but it does not decide on its own whether you have a claim.
What if I bought the vehicle used?
Recalls usually follow the vehicle, not the first owner. A used ATV or side-by-side may be covered even if you never got a recall letter. Check the VIN, and ask the seller for any service records or recall paperwork they kept.
Can I report a problem even if there's no recall?
Yes. CPSC collects reports of harm or potential harm from consumer products at SaferProducts.gov. CPSC says each report is reviewed by its staff, and reports are published in a searchable public database. Businesses can respond, and their comments may be published with the report (SaferProducts.gov (opens in new tab)).
Before you file, think about what you want to say publicly, and keep a copy of what you submit. You can talk with a lawyer first if you are unsure.
Questions after an off-road fire?
Burned in an ATV or side-by-side fire, or caring for someone who was? Tell us what happened and we will review it for free. You decide what happens next.