Understanding TSBs and Recalls: Free Fixes You Might Be Missing

Here's something most car owners don't know: manufacturers find problems with vehicles all the time, publish fixes, and... often don't tell you about it. Unless it's a safety recall, they're under no obligation to reach out. You have to look yourself.

Recalls vs. TSBs: The Difference

Safety Recalls

A recall happens when the government or manufacturer identifies a safety defect. Key things to know:

Manufacturer has to fix it free. By law.
No mileage or age limit. A 20-year-old car can have an open recall.
They're supposed to mail you. (But not everyone gets the letter.)

Recalls are serious. The Takata airbag recall involved airbags that could explode and kill you. Don't ignore recall notices.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

A TSB is an internal notice from manufacturer to dealers: "Hey, we're seeing this problem a lot. Here's how to fix it."

They're NOT required to fix it free (though sometimes they will).
They usually don't notify owners at all.
Dealers know about them. You might not.
Can save you diagnostic time and money—the fix is already figured out.

How to Check for Recalls

NHTSA.gov

The official source. Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls, enter your VIN. Shows every incomplete recall for your specific vehicle. Takes 30 seconds. Do this at least once a year.

Manufacturer Sites

Most brands have their own recall lookup. Sometimes has more detail about parts availability and scheduling.

Carfax

Free at carfax.com/recall. Also shows if previous recalls were completed—useful when buying used.

Getting Recall Work Done

Where

Any franchised dealer for your make. Doesn't have to be where you bought it. Any Ford dealer anywhere in the country has to honor a Ford recall.

If Parts Aren't Available

Some recalls have backordered parts. The dealer will put you on a waiting list. For serious issues (like the airbag recall), manufacturers sometimes offer loaner cars, buybacks, or interim remedies while you wait.

Already Paid for the Fix?

If you paid to fix something before it was recalled, contact the manufacturer for reimbursement. Keep your receipts. There's usually a process and a time limit.

Finding TSBs

NHTSA Database

NHTSA publishes TSBs at nhtsa.gov/vehicle. Search by year/make/model under "Technical Service Bulletins." Not all TSBs are here, but many are.

Forums

Enthusiast forums for your car often discuss TSBs extensively. People share TSB numbers, experiences getting them applied, etc. Google "[your car] [your problem] TSB forum."

CarCodeFix

We aggregate TSB information in our repair guides. When there's a known TSB for a problem, we mention it.

Using TSBs Strategically

Within Warranty

If there's a TSB for your problem and you're in warranty, the repair should be covered. Print the TSB, bring it to the dealer. Sometimes the service advisor hasn't heard of it, but the tech will look it up.

Out of Warranty

No guarantee of free repair, but...

Sometimes manufacturers extend coverage for TSB issues (especially if there's been bad publicity)
Dealers have "goodwill" programs for common problems
It doesn't hurt to ask

At Independent Shops

A TSB gives your mechanic the exact diagnostic steps and proven fix. Instead of trial-and-error, they go straight to the solution. Saves time (and labor cost).

Real Examples

TSBs aren't exotic—they're common. Some examples from recent years:

Certain Ford trucks: TSB for transmission shudder, fix involves a software update and fluid change
Some Honda Civics: TSB for AC condenser leaks, goodwill coverage extended
Various GM vehicles: TSB for infotainment screen going black, requires module replacement

In each case, knowing the TSB exists gets you to the fix faster.

If the Dealer Says No

Ask to speak with the service manager (not just the advisor)
Call manufacturer customer service directly
Try a different dealer—they have discretion on goodwill repairs
For safety issues, file a complaint with NHTSA (this can prompt investigations)

Bottom Line

Check your VIN for recalls at least once a year. Before paying for any repair, spend 5 minutes searching for TSBs. This information is out there—manufacturers just don't volunteer it. Being proactive literally saves money.