Car Recall Process in Texas: VIN Check, Disclosure & Free Repair
If your vehicle has an open recall, you have specific rights — and the manufacturer has specific obligations. Here's how the process works in Texas.
Quick Reference
How to Check for Recalls
NHTSA.gov VIN lookup
Check recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls — free, real-time. Texas DPS does not maintain a separate recall database.
Manufacturer's Free-Repair Obligation
Free repair for recalls under 15 years old (NHTSA federal rule)
Federal NHTSA rule: free recall repair for vehicles under 15 years old. Texas doesn't extend this further.
Registration Restrictions
No Texas registration block for open recalls
Texas does NOT block registration for open recalls. However, dealers face DTPA liability if they sell without disclosure.
Disclosure at Sale
Texas DTPA requires disclosure of known recalls; failure = treble damages
Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act requires disclosure of known material defects, including open recalls. Failure to disclose = DTPA claim.
Reimbursement for Past Repairs
Yes — federal rule: manufacturer reimburses pre-recall paid repairs
Federal rule applies in Texas. If you paid for a repair later subject to recall, manufacturer reimburses. File with manufacturer + NHTSA.
Loaner Vehicle During Repair
Not required by state law, but most manufacturers provide voluntarily
Texas doesn't require manufacturers to provide loaner cars. However, most major brands voluntarily provide loaners for 4+ hour repairs.
Texas Standout Rule
Texas-Specific Facts for Car Recall Process
Texas Vehicle transfer fees and requirements
In Texas, the title transfer fee is $33 and registration costs $50.75 per year. Vehicle sales are subject to 6.25% motor vehicle sales tax on purchase price. Texas does not require notarization for private-party vehicle transfers. Emission testing is required in Texas — verify the vehicle passes before completing the sale.
- Annual safety inspection required; emissions testing in select counties
- Title transfer within 30 days at county tax office
- Form 130-U required for title transfer
- Standard Presumptive Value (SPV) used for tax assessment on private sales
Official Texas bill of sale form
The official Texas bill of sale form is Form 130-U (Application for Texas Title and/or Registration). BillOfSaleNow generates a document that meets all Texas requirements and can be used in place of the official form.
Texas sales tax on vehicle purchases
Texas has a 6.25% state sales tax rate. Flat 6.25% motor vehicle sales tax statewide. Private-party vehicle sales in Texas are subject to sales tax. Tax based on Standard Presumptive Value (SPV) or purchase price, whichever is higher. The title transfer fee is $33.
Texas bill of sale statistics
BillOfSaleNow has generated 10,842 bill of sale documents for Texas transactions, with 292 generated this month alone. The most popular vehicle type is car.
More Texas Vehicle Guides
- Dealer Fraud Claim in Texas
- Dealer Prep Fees in Texas
- Dealer Surety Bond in Texas
- Vehicle Deposit Refund in Texas
- Sell Car With Suspended License in Texas
- EV Tax Credit in Texas
Each guide is written specifically for Texas laws, agencies, and procedures. Bookmark for future reference.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I check for car recalls in Texas?
NHTSA.gov VIN lookup. Check recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls — free, real-time. Texas DPS does not maintain a separate recall database.
Must the manufacturer fix the recall for free in Texas?
Free repair for recalls under 15 years old (NHTSA federal rule). Federal NHTSA rule: free recall repair for vehicles under 15 years old. Texas doesn't extend this further.
Will Texas block my registration for an open recall?
No Texas registration block for open recalls. Texas does NOT block registration for open recalls. However, dealers face DTPA liability if they sell without disclosure.
Must a Texas dealer disclose open recalls at sale?
Texas DTPA requires disclosure of known recalls; failure = treble damages. Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act requires disclosure of known material defects, including open recalls. Failure to disclose = DTPA claim.
Can I get reimbursed for a recall repair I already paid for in Texas?
Yes — federal rule: manufacturer reimburses pre-recall paid repairs. Federal rule applies in Texas. If you paid for a repair later subject to recall, manufacturer reimburses. File with manufacturer + NHTSA.
Selling a Vehicle With Open Recalls?
Disclose open recalls in writing on your Texas bill of sale. Protects you from buyer disputes and complies with consumer protection laws.
Generate Bill of SaleSource: Texas Department of Motor Vehicles + NHTSA. Always check NHTSA.gov for the latest recall information using your VIN.