Do you have to be the original owner of a vehicle for recall stay in effect?

In the United States, safety recalls generally apply to all affected vehicles regardless of ownership history, including ones purchased used. Manufacturers must notify current and previous owners of any open safety recalls, and dealers are required to perform the necessary repairs free of charge.

It's important to note, however, that certain state laws or specific recall campaigns may have additional requirements or limitations regarding recall repairs for subsequent owners.

For example, in some jurisdictions, if the vehicle has been registered to a different owner when the recall is issued, the responsibility to inform the new owner and provide remedy lies with the state's department of motor vehicles rather than the manufacturer. In such cases, the new owner may be required to initiate the recall process.

To ensure your safety and to comply with legal obligations, it's advisable to check the vehicle identification number (VIN) for any outstanding recalls with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website or with the vehicle's manufacturer before or after purchasing a used car.