Consumer Alert: 3.5 Million Recalled Cars Sold Online In 2013

News provided by

Feb 11, 2014, 11:01 ET

CENTREVILLE, Va., Feb. 11, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Carfax today released new data suggesting online shoppers may have unknowingly purchased millions of used cars with unfixed recalls in 2013. The company's annual research on the issue shows more than 3.5 million cars were listed for sale online with an open safety recall.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20080507/CARFAXLOGO )

Texas, California, Missouri, Florida and Ohio led the nation with the most recalled cars for sale online last year. While every state has unfixed recalled cars for sale, nearly one-third of the total were in just those five states.

"Open recalls are still a major public safety issue," said Larry Gamache, communications director at Carfax. "In fact, our research indicates that more than one in ten used cars for sale online has an open recall. It's another reminder that consumers, especially those shopping online, need to know as much as possible about a used car before they buy. This includes if an open recall or other potentially dangerous issue exists. It helps make our roads safer for everyone."

Ignoring or not knowing about open recalls can impact a vehicle's safety, performance and resale value. To help find open recalls, consumers should shop where used cars for sale come with free Carfax Vehicle History Reports. VIN-specific open recall information is reported to Carfax directly from the auto manufacturers and is included on Carfax Reports.

"The most important thing about open recalls is knowing there is one," continued Gamache. "We found that in 42 states, consumers shopping online for used cars in March and April stand the greatest chance of buying one with an open recall. Whenever and wherever you shop, make sure to look for open recalls and have them fixed. Almost every recall will be fixed for free at your local franchise dealer."

Editor's note: Used car expert Chris Basso is available anytime for interview via satellite, phone, Skype or in-person. Contact him at 703-304-7727 to schedule.

About Carfax (www.carfax.com)
Carfax is the vehicle history expert for used car buyers, sellers and the automotive industry. Carfax created the Vehicle History Report in 1986 and maintains the largest vehicle history database ever assembled, comprising over 12 billion vehicle records from more than 81,000 sources across North America. A Carfax® Vehicle History Report™, the most trusted resource for vehicle history information, is an essential step in the used car buying process. Get free Carfax® Reports from dealers wherever used cars are sold online or look for Carfax Advantage™ dealers in your area and say 'Show Me the Carfax'. For used car buying tips or to purchase a Carfax® Report, visit www.carfax.com. Carfax was recently acquired by IHS Inc. (NYSE: IHS).

Connect with us on Facebook, Google+, LinkedIn and Twitter @CarfaxReports, read our Blog and Customer Stories, and watch us on YouTube. Friend Car Fox on Facebook and follow him on Twitter @TheCarFox. Download the 'Carfax Reports' mobile app from the App Store^SMand Google Play^SM.