Vehicle Reliability & Lemon Check Tool
Check any vehicle for recalls, reliability scores, and common problems in seconds. Avoid buying a lemon!
Check Your Vehicle
Over 42,851 vehicles checked this week!
Analyzing your vehicle... Checking recalls, reliability databases and common failure points
Your Vehicle Report
84/100
RELIABILITY SCORE
VERY GOOD - Better than 89% of similar vehicles
LEMON RISK
Low (12%)
AVG. REPAIR COST/YR
$210
ACTIVE RECALLS
1
Key Findings
• No major recurring issues reported
• Minor complaints about infotainment system
• 2019 model has outstanding recall for fuel pump
• Minor complaints about infotainment system
• 2019 model has outstanding recall for fuel pump
Active Recall Notice
NHTSA Recall #20V240000: Fuel pump may fail causing stalling
Affected: 2018-2020 models built before March 2019
Solution: Free replacement at dealership
Affected: 2018-2020 models built before March 2019
Solution: Free replacement at dealership
Recommended Actions
1 Check Recall Status
Verify if recall applies to your VIN
2 Get Full History Report
Unlock accident/service records
Disclaimer: This tool provides estimates based on public data sources. Always verify critical information with authorized dealers or official sources before making purchasing decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is this reliability check tool?
Our tool uses data from NHTSA recalls, consumer complaint databases, and reliability studies to provide highly accurate assessments. We cover over 95% of vehicles on the road today with an accuracy rate of 92% based on user feedback and industry verification.
What makes a car a "lemon"?
A lemon is a vehicle with recurring, unfixable defects that substantially impair its use, value, or safety. Most states require that:
• The problem occurs within 18 months of purchase or 18,000 miles
• The manufacturer has made at least 3-4 unsuccessful repair attempts
• The car has been out of service for 30+ days for repairs
• The problem occurs within 18 months of purchase or 18,000 miles
• The manufacturer has made at least 3-4 unsuccessful repair attempts
• The car has been out of service for 30+ days for repairs
Do I need the VIN to use this tool?
While VIN provides the most accurate results, you can still get a comprehensive reliability report using just the year, make, and model of the vehicle. The VIN allows us to check for specific recalls affecting your exact vehicle configuration.
How often is your database updated?
We update our databases daily with the latest recall information from NHTSA and weekly with new reliability data from industry sources. Common problem reports are updated in real-time as we receive new information from mechanics and vehicle owners.
Precautions When Buying Used Vehicles
Pre-Purchase Inspection
- Always get a professional inspection before buying
- Check for signs of flood damage or accidents
- Verify mileage with service records
- Test all electronic features and controls
- Inspect tires, brakes, and suspension
Documentation Check
- Verify the VIN matches on all documents
- Check for liens against the vehicle
- Review maintenance and service history
- Ensure title is clean (not salvaged)
- Confirm ownership transfer process
Test Drive Essentials
- Test drive in various conditions (city/highway)
- Listen for unusual noises from engine/suspension
- Check acceleration and braking performance
- Test steering responsiveness
- Verify transmission shifts smoothly
Lemon Warning Signs
- Multiple owners in a short period
- Inconsistent service records
- Fresh paint or body work on older vehicles
- Warning lights that disappear during test drive
- Seller unwilling to allow inspection
Essential Vehicle Maintenance
Fluids & Lubrication
- Engine oil change every 5,000-7,500 miles
- Transmission fluid every 30,000-60,000 miles
- Coolant flush every 30,000 miles or 2 years
- Brake fluid replacement every 2 years
- Power steering fluid check at each service
Tires & Brakes
- Tire rotation every 5,000-7,500 miles
- Brake pad inspection every service
- Check tire pressure monthly
- Wheel alignment annually
- Replace tires when tread depth below 3/32"
Engine & Electrical
- Replace air filter every 15,000 miles
- Spark plugs every 30,000-100,000 miles
- Battery check every 6 months
- Serpentine belt inspection annually
- Check engine light diagnosis immediately
Seasonal Maintenance
- Spring: Detail interior/exterior
- Summer: Check AC performance
- Fall: Inspect heating system
- Winter: Check battery and antifreeze
- Seasonal: Wiper blade replacement
About This Tool
Our Vehicle Reliability Check Tool was developed by automotive experts with over 20 years of industry experience. We combine data from multiple authoritative sources to provide accurate vehicle assessments.
Data Sources
- NHTSA recall database
- Consumer complaint reports
- Technical service bulletins
- Reliability surveys
- Mechanic repair data
NHTSA
Consumer Reports
RepairPal
4.8M+
Vehicles Checked
98%
User Satisfaction
24/7
Updated Data
How It Works
- Enter your vehicle information
- Our system scans multiple databases
- Algorithms analyze reliability factors
- Generate comprehensive report
- Receive actionable recommendations
Reliability Trends
Most Reliable Brands (2025)
- Toyota - 92% reliability score
- Honda - 89% reliability score
- Mazda - 87% reliability score
- Subaru - 85% reliability score
- Kia - 84% reliability score
Least Reliable Brands (2025)
- Land Rover - 62% reliability score
- Jeep - 65% reliability score
- Alfa Romeo - 67% reliability score
- Chrysler - 69% reliability score
- Mercedes-Benz - 72% reliability score
Most Common Problems
- Electrical system issues (32%)
- Transmission problems (28%)
- Engine performance (24%)
- Suspension noise (19%)
- Climate control (17%)
Pro Tips
Negotiation Strategies
- Use reliability report as negotiation tool
- Point out upcoming maintenance needs
- Highlight recall repairs needed
- Compare with similar vehicles' pricing
- Factor in repair costs from common issues
Lemon Law Protection
- Understand your state's lemon law
- Keep detailed repair records
- Notify manufacturer in writing
- Know time/mileage limitations
- Consult consumer protection attorney
Warranty Check
- Verify remaining factory warranty
- Check for extended warranty transfers
- Research certified pre-owned benefits
- Understand powertrain coverage
- Confirm recall repair coverage