Can a dealer sell a used car with an open recall?

In many cases, yes. Federal law bars dealers from selling new vehicles with open safety recalls until they are fixed, but there is generally no federal ban on selling used cars with open recalls, though some state rules and dealer policies differ. That is why it is smart to check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls before buying and ask the seller to complete any repairs. Recall repairs remain free at a franchised dealer even after you buy.