Large Recall NHTSA · 97E005000 Reported February 20, 1997

Directed electronics/remote start units

Q: What is recall 97E005000?

NHTSA recall 97E005000 was issued by Directed Electronics, Inc. on February 20, 1997. It addresses: Directed electronics/remote start units. The recall affects approximately 200,000 vehicles , with the defect involving the Visibility component.

Q: Is my vehicle included in this recall?

The only way to confirm is to look up your 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls . NHTSA's tool will tell you if VIN-by-VIN this exact recall applies.

Q: How long do I have to get a recall repair done?

There is no expiration on most federal safety recalls. Even if your vehicle is years old and you bought it used, the manufacturer is required to perform the repair at no cost.

Directed Electronics, Inc. · Visibility · 200,000 vehicles potentially affected

NHTSA ID

97E005000

Manufacturer Campaign

NR (Not Reported)

Manufacturer

Directed Electronics, Inc.

Component

Visibility

Vehicles Affected

200,000

Recall Type

Equipment

Report Received

February 20, 1997

Defect Summary

Improperly installed remote start units can permit remote engine start while the vehicle is in gear.

Safety Consequence

If the vehicle is started in gear, the vehicle can move forward unexpectedly causing property damage or personal injury.

Corrective Action

Dealers will inspect vehicles having the remote start units and, if necessary, appropriate adjustment will be made to prevent remote starting in gear.

What you should do

Look up your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm this recall applies to your vehicle.
Contact an authorized Directed Electronics, Inc. dealer and reference recall ID 97E005000 or campaign NR (Not Reported).
Schedule the free repair. By federal law, the manufacturer must remedy the defect at no cost.

View Official NHTSA Notice →

Similar Recalls

Other recalls from Directed Electronics, Inc. or involving Visibility.

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FAQ: Recall 97E005000

Your rights, the repair process, and what each field on this page means.

What is recall 97E005000?

NHTSA recall 97E005000 was issued by Directed Electronics, Inc. on February 20, 1997. It addresses: Directed electronics/remote start units. The recall affects approximately 200,000 vehicles, with the defect involving the Visibility component.

How do I get this recall repaired?

Contact any authorized Directed Electronics, Inc. dealer and reference NHTSA recall ID 97E005000 or the manufacturer campaign number NR (Not Reported). Under federal law, the repair is completely free regardless of vehicle age or owner history.

Is my vehicle included in this recall?

The only way to confirm is to look up your 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. NHTSA's tool will tell you if VIN-by-VIN this exact recall applies.

How long do I have to get a recall repair done?

There is no expiration on most federal safety recalls. Even if your vehicle is years old and you bought it used, the manufacturer is required to perform the repair at no cost.

Where does the data on this page come from?

All information on this page is sourced directly from the U.S. Department of Transportation public dataset for NHTSA recalls. Last refreshed: 2026-05-22. For the most current official notice, visit nhtsa.gov/recalls.