Don’t Ignore a Recall: Check Your Vehicle

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is urging drivers to check their vehicles and address any outstanding recalls during Vehicle Safety Recalls Week, which is March 2-8, 2026. In Connecticut, there are nearly 500,000 vehicles that currently have open safety recalls - many involving critical systems such as airbags, brakes, steering components, and tires.

Nationwide, more than 54.5 million vehicles have at least one unresolved safety recall, according to the latest data from CARFAX. Of these, over 14 million vehicles have two or more open recalls, increasing the likelihood that serious safety defects may go unrepaired.

Officials are also highlighting the nearly one million vehicles nationwide that have open recalls for defective child seat LATCH connectors, according to CARFAX. LATCH, which stands for Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children, is the child seat anchoring system required in most vehicles manufactured since 2003. Defective LATCH systems can prevent child seats from being properly secured.

"Open vehicle recalls are a serious safety risk," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "It only takes a few minutes to check your vehicle, and addressing recalls promptly can prevent injuries and save lives. We urge all Connecticut drivers to act now during Vehicle Safety Recalls Week."

"Open recalls can compromise the vehicle's performance and safety," said Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner Tony Guerrera. "For the safety of all drivers and passengers, it's essential to ensure that your vehicle has no outstanding recalls."

Checking for Recalls is Free and Easy

Drivers can visit NHTSA.gov/Recallsand enter their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or license plate number to check for open recalls. Repairs for safety recalls are always free at authorized dealerships.

Connecticut drivers can also use CheckToProtect.org, a national campaign led by the National Safety Council, to quickly check if their vehicle has an open recall. Check To Protect provides clear instructions and resources to schedule free recall repairs. Vehicle owners can also sign up for alerts to stay informed about future recalls.

Drivers can also:

• Download NHTSA's free SaferCar app to receive automatic notifications if a recall is issued.
• Save multiple vehicles, car seats, tires, or other equipment in the app for ongoing monitoring.

Although manufacturers send recall notices by mail and email, drivers should check for recalls at least twice a year to ensure their vehicles remain safe.

CTDOT is committed to promoting safe driving practices and protecting all who travel on Connecticut's roadways.

To learn more, please visit nhtsa.gov/recalls.