BUSINESS BRIEF

Database to let drivers check for recall repairs

8/14/2013

 

DETROIT — Starting next summer, U.S. consumers will be able to search a giant database without charge to find out if recall repairs have been made to their cars or motorcycles.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says it will require major auto and motorcycle makers to make it possible for customers to search online data by vehicle identification number.

Only about 70 percent of recalled vehicles are taken to dealers for repairs, leaving thousands of cars on the road with critical safety flaws.