Auto Recall Search Tool Hits 100 Millionth Vehicle In Less Than 18 Months

Joint Effort with Carfax, Auto Alliance and Global Automakers Helps Boost Recall Awareness

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Aug 19, 2019, 09:53 ET

CENTREVILLE, Va., Aug. 19, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- One hundred million vehicles have now been processed through a search tool aimed at creating greater consumer awareness of auto recalls. The Vehicle Recall Search Service (VRSS) reached the milestone this month after launching in March 2018. The program was developed jointly by Carfax, the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers and the Association of Global Automakers, which collectively accounts for 99 percent of automobile production. Approved commercial and government entities, like state departments of motor vehicles (DMVs), auto insurers and finance companies, are able to search for open recalls for thousands of autos at once, free of charge.

"The Alliance is extremely pleased that 100 million VINs have been searched through our Vehicle Recall Search Service," said David Schwietert, Interim President and CEO of the Alliance. "This milestone highlights the value of providing supplemental notification to vehicle owners about open recalls that are addressed free of charge. Simply put, our industry collaboration means that more vehicle recalls are remedied."

Currently there are six state DMVs signed up for the tool, with New York being the first DMV to fully implement checks for open recalls during the vehicle inspection process to help improve public safety. Since the New York DMV started using VRSS 10 months ago, they've checked 9.4 million vehicles and identified more than 1.6 million vehicles with open recalls. Drivers of vehicles that have open recalls are notified at the time of inspection and recall details are included on the state inspection report.

The California Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) is also working to implement VRSS into their emissions inspection process. "BAR is actively working to integrate data provided by Carfax and provide vehicle specific safety recall information to every consumer who receives a Smog Check," said BAR Chief Patrick Dorais. "BAR is committed to consumer protection and is excited about the opportunity to positively influence safety recall compliance rates in California."

The VIN search tool supplements efforts by automakers and is aimed at informing the public so they can address recalls at no cost to the vehicle owner and improve safety. To learn more about the recall search tool and apply for access, visit www.freeautorecallsearch.org.

About the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers
The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers is a trade association representing 12 automakers. Together, our mission is to promote policies that allow automakers the freedom and control to build cars and light trucks that are safe, reliable, energy-efficient, clean and smart — all so our customers can enjoy greater peace of mind as they go about their daily lives. Visit www.autoalliance.org.

About the Association of Global Automakers
The Association of Global Automakers represents the U.S. operations of international motor vehicle manufacturers, original equipment suppliers, automotive technology companies and other automotive-related trade associations. Global Automakers' mission is to educate and advocate for policies that help foster a vibrant, growing, free and open U.S. auto industry for all stakeholders. The Association collaborates with industry leaders, legislators, regulators, and other players in Washington, DC and 50 state capitals to create the kind of public policy that promotes innovation, vehicle safety and environmental responsibility. Visit us at www.globalautomakers.org.

About Carfax
Carfax, a unit of IHS Markit (Nasdaq: INFO), helps millions of people every day confidently shop, buy, own and sell used cars with innovative solutions powered by Carfax vehicle history information. The expert in vehicle history since 1984, Carfax provides exclusive services like Carfax Used Car Listings, myCarfax, Carfax History-Based Value and the flagship Carfax® Vehicle History Report™ to consumers and the automotive industry. Carfax owns the world's largest vehicle history database and is a nationally recognized top workplace by The Washington Post and Glassdoor.com. Shop, Buy, Own, Sell – Show me the Carfax™. Based in London, IHS Markit is a world leader in critical information, analytics and solutions.

SOURCE Carfax