You'll need the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the car to perform a precise recall check. The VIN is a 17-character code usually found on the driver's side dashboard, near the windshield.
Once you have the VIN, go to the NHTSA website (nhtsa.gov) and use their recall lookup tool. This will give you the most accurate and up-to-date information about any outstanding recalls for that particular vehicle.