New Jersey Drivers Must Check for Open Recalls Before Registration Renewal

Starting April 1, 2026, New Jersey will require vehicle recall checks before registration renewals, emphasizing safety amid millions of unrepaired recalls.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 3:50am

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A new law in New Jersey will require the Motor Vehicle Commission to check for open recalls on vehicles before issuing or renewing vehicle registrations, starting on April 1, 2026. This is aimed at addressing the millions of unrepaired recalls nationwide, including the dangerous Takata airbag issue. Drivers can also check for open recalls on their own using the VIN number and the NHTSA's SaferCar app.

Why it matters

Unrepaired vehicle recalls can pose serious safety risks, as seen with the Takata airbag issue that has resulted in 28 confirmed deaths nationwide. This new law in New Jersey aims to raise awareness and encourage drivers to address open recalls, which are always free to repair at dealerships.

The details

The new law will require the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission to issue a notice about any open recalls when issuing or renewing a vehicle registration. This won't affect the ability to renew the registration, but it could prompt drivers to get the necessary recall repairs done. Drivers can also check for open recalls on their own using the VIN number and the NHTSA's SaferCar app, which covers not just cars but also vehicle equipment like trailers, tires, and car seats.

  • The new law will go into effect on April 1, 2026.

The players

New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission

The state agency that oversees vehicle registrations and will be required to check for open recalls before issuing or renewing registrations.

National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA)

The federal agency that maintains a webpage and app dedicated to vehicle recalls, which New Jersey drivers can use to check for open recalls on their vehicles.

Shani Jarvis

AAA Northeast Outreach Manager, who provided information about the new law and the importance of addressing open recalls.

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What they’re saying

“Simply enter your VIN and registration card number. The VIN is located on the driver's side corner of the windshield.”

— Shani Jarvis, AAA Northeast Outreach Manager

“What happened was that when the airbags deployed, shrapnel and other things were coming out as well, so NHTSA had a major campaign dedicated to helping people understand that these airbags were recalled and they could get fixed.”

— Shani Jarvis, AAA Northeast Outreach Manager

What’s next

Drivers in New Jersey should check their vehicles for any open recalls using the NHTSA's SaferCar app or website, and schedule the free recall repairs at a dealership as soon as possible.

The takeaway

This new law in New Jersey highlights the importance of addressing open vehicle recalls, which can pose serious safety risks if left unrepaired. By requiring recall checks during registration renewals, the state aims to raise awareness and encourage drivers to take action, ultimately improving road safety for all.