When purchasing a used vehicle, it’s really important to check the recall history of the car and the tires.

Charles was aware of a recall of tires for the used SUV he purchased. He assumed, however, that all of the defective tires had been replaced since the recall had been issued several years earlier.

The vehicle passed the Virginia state inspection with no mention that it had faulty tires. A week later his pregnant wife and two small children were in the auto when the tread separated from the tire. The car swerved, spun out of control, and slammed into the median. Fortunately, neither his wife nor children were injured.

This incident points out the importance of checking for all recalls against a used vehicle before buying it. You can go to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for a list of recalls. Call 1-800-424-9393, or go to www.nhtsa.dot.gov and use the quick link to recalls. Be sure to check both the car and the tires for recalls. You may also report safety concerns to the NHTSA.