Finding Your Jack Stand's Recall Status

You can check whether your jack stand has been recalled by looking up the model number on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website or by contacting the manufacturer directly. The NHTSA maintains a searchable database of all vehicle equipment recalls, including jack stands, and you can search by brand name or model number in minutes.

The fastest route is the NHTSA database at safercar.gov. Go to the "Recalls" section, select "Equipment" from the dropdown, then search by the jack stand's brand name or the specific model number printed on the stand itself. The database will show you whether that model has an active recall, what the hazard is, and what the manufacturer is offering as a remedy.

If you cannot find the model number or the NHTSA search returns no results, contact the jack stand manufacturer directly. Most major brands — including Torin, Craftsman, Sunex, and Arcan — have customer service lines that can tell you in one call whether your specific model is under recall. You will need the model number, which is usually stamped on the base or side of the stand.

Key Takeaways

  • The NHTSA database at safercar.gov is the official source for all equipment recalls and can be searched by brand name or model number.
  • The model number on your jack stand is usually stamped on the base or side and is required to search most recall databases.
  • If the NHTSA database shows no recall, you can contact the manufacturer directly to confirm the stand is not under recall.
  • Active recalls typically offer a free replacement, repair, or refund, and the manufacturer will usually cover shipping.
  • Recalled jack stands should not be used until the remedy is completed, as the hazard usually involves sudden collapse or slipping.

Locating the Model Number on Your Jack Stand

The model number is the key to any recall search. On most jack stands, it is stamped or printed on the base plate, the side of the stand, or on a label near the hydraulic cylinder. Look for a number that starts with letters (like "T" for Torin or "SUN" for Sunex) followed by numbers.

If the label is worn or missing, check the original packaging or receipt — the model number is usually printed there. You can also take a photo of the stand and email it to the manufacturer's customer service; they can often identify the model from the design alone. Write down the exact model number before you search, because even a single digit difference can point to a different product.

Searching the NHTSA Database

Go to safercar.gov and click on "Recalls" in the main menu. You will see a search box with several filter options. Select "Equipment" from the product type dropdown — this narrows results to tools and accessories rather than vehicles themselves.

Type the brand name (Torin, Craftsman, Sunex, etc.) or the full model number into the search field and click "Search." The results will show any recalls associated with that brand or model, the date the recall was issued, the hazard description, and the remedy offered. If your model appears, the page will also show you how to contact the manufacturer to request the remedy.

If no results appear, your model is not currently under recall in the NHTSA database. This does not mean the stand is completely safe — it means no federal safety hazard has been identified and reported — but it does mean there is no active recall requiring action.

Contacting the Manufacturer Directly

If you cannot find a model number or the NHTSA search returns nothing, call the manufacturer. Most jack stand makers have toll-free customer service lines and can confirm recall status in one conversation. Have the model number ready, or be prepared to describe the stand's color, size, and any visible markings.

When you call, ask directly: "Is this model under recall?" If the answer is yes, ask what the remedy is (replacement, repair, or refund), whether it is free, and how long it takes. If the answer is no, ask them to confirm that in writing via email — this creates a record in case a recall is issued later.

Major manufacturers like Torin and Sunex also post recall information on their websites. Search "[brand name] recall" in your browser to see if the company has a dedicated recall page. Some brands list recalls by year or product line, which can be faster than calling.

Understanding What a Recall Means

A recall means the manufacturer has identified a safety defect in that model and is offering to fix it at no cost to you. The defect is usually something that could cause the stand to collapse, slip, or fail while supporting a vehicle. Common jack stand recalls involve welds that crack, hydraulic seals that fail, or locking mechanisms that do not hold properly.

If your stand is recalled, you should stop using it until the remedy is complete. Using a recalled stand puts you at serious risk of injury — a collapsing jack stand can cause the vehicle to fall and cause severe injury or death. The remedy is almost always free and usually involves mailing the stand to the manufacturer or dropping it at a retailer, receiving a replacement or repaired unit in return.

What to Do If Your Jack Stand Is Recalled

Once you confirm a recall, contact the manufacturer using the information on the NHTSA recall page. They will give you instructions for sending in the stand or picking up a replacement. Most manufacturers cover return shipping and send the replacement within two to four weeks.

If you need a jack stand in the meantime, purchase a different model that is not under recall. Do not attempt to repair a recalled stand yourself — the remedy must be done by the manufacturer to may support it meets safety standards. Keep the recall notice and your proof of purchase in case you need to prove you complied with the recall later.

Checking for Recalls on New or Used Jack Stands

If you are buying a jack stand, check the NHTSA database before you purchase. Search the model number on the box or ask the seller for it. This prevents you from buying a stand that is already under recall and cannot be used.

For used stands, the same process applies: find the model number and search the NHTSA database. A used stand may have been recalled years ago and the previous owner may not have completed the remedy. Searching takes five minutes and could save you from buying a dangerous tool.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is the model number on a jack stand?

The model number is usually stamped or printed on the base plate, the side of the stand near the hydraulic cylinder, or on a label affixed to the stand. If you cannot find it, check the original box or packaging. If those are gone, contact the manufacturer with a photo of the stand and they can identify it.

What if the NHTSA database shows no recall but I still think something is wrong with my stand?

No recall in the database means no federal safety defect has been reported for that model. If you notice damage, cracks, or unusual behavior (slipping, leaking, difficulty locking), contact the manufacturer directly. They may offer a warranty repair or replacement even without a recall.

Can I use a recalled jack stand if I am careful?

No. A recalled jack stand has a known safety defect that can cause sudden failure regardless of how carefully you use it. The risk of the vehicle falling is too high. Stop using it and contact the manufacturer for the remedy.

How long does it take to get a replacement for a recalled jack stand?

Most manufacturers take two to four weeks from the time they receive the recalled stand to ship a replacement. Some offer expedited shipping if you pay for it, but the remedy itself is free. Ask the manufacturer for an estimated timeline when you contact them.

Do I need to keep the recall notice after I complete the remedy?

Yes. Keep the recall notice and any documentation from the manufacturer showing you completed the remedy. This protects you if the stand fails later and proves you took the required action.