Guides / Safety
Safety ratings and recalls
Where to find crash test ratings and check a car's open recalls.
Two independent sources test new cars in the US, and a free federal tool tells you if any car has an unrepaired recall.
Crash tests
- NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, from the federal government
- IIHS ratings and its Top Safety Pick awards, from the insurance industry-funded Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
- Compare the same model year; tests change over time
Recalls
- Enter the VIN at NHTSA.gov/recalls to see unrepaired safety recalls
- Recall repairs are free at authorized dealers
- Ask a seller to show proof that recalls were completed
General information for car buyers, not financial advice. Costs vary by location, driving and market. Easy Auto Compare isn't a dealer, lender or insurer and takes no referral fees.