The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is encouraging vehicle owners to check for and address any outstanding recalls during Vehicle Safety Recalls Week, taking place from March 2-8, 2026. According to CTDOT, nearly 500,000 vehicles in Connecticut currently have open safety recalls. These recalls often involve essential components such as airbags, brakes, steering systems, and tires.
Recent data from CARFAX indicates that more than 54.5 million vehicles across the United States have at least one unresolved safety recall. Of these, over 14 million vehicles have two or more open recalls, which raises the risk that critical safety issues may not be fixed. CARFAX also reports that almost one million vehicles nationwide have open recalls related to defective child seat LATCH connectors—a system required in most cars manufactured since 2003—that could prevent proper securing of child seats.
“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.”
Drivers are advised that checking for open recalls is both free and straightforward. By visiting NHTSA.gov/Recalls and entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or license plate number, owners can determine if their car is subject to any recall notices. Repairs for these safety issues are always provided at no cost by authorized dealerships.
Connecticut residents can also use CheckToProtect.org—an initiative led by the National Safety Council—to see if their vehicles have an open recall and schedule free repairs. The platform offers instructions and resources for arranging repairs and allows users to sign up for alerts about future recalls.
Additionally, motorists can download NHTSA’s SaferCar app to receive automatic notifications if a new recall affects their registered vehicles or equipment such as car seats or tires.
Although manufacturers send recall notifications by mail or email, officials recommend checking for outstanding recalls at least twice each year as an extra precaution.
CTDOT continues its commitment to road safety through various initiatives such as work zone awareness campaigns and support for community infrastructure via grants. The department maintains its headquarters in Newington but manages transportation services statewide throughout Connecticut (source). Under Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto’s leadership (source), CTDOT works toward providing a safe intermodal transportation network that supports economic vitality while improving quality of life (source).
More information on how to check for vehicle recalls is available at nhtsa.gov/recalls.