Turn Any VIN into Technical Service Bulletins
Access technical service bulletins by VIN in seconds using a reliable API built for real automotive use. Retrieve OEM-issued TSB data with clean JSON responses and integrate accurate repair insights directly into your platform.
What Makes The TSB API Easy to Work With
Most APIs list features. This one focuses on what actually helps when you’re working with real vehicle data. Some features of the Technical Service Bulletins API are:
99.9% Uptime SLA
Reliable infrastructure built for platforms running continuous vehicle lookups.
Fast Response Times
Get results in seconds, ready to use without delays in your workflow.
100% Accuracy
Matches bulletins to the exact vehicle configuration for more reliable results.
VIN and YMM Lookup in One Endpoint
Submit a VIN or year, make, and model. Both return the same structured response.
Structured JSON Output
Consistent JSON with bulletin number, title, date, summary, and PDF link.
PDF Documents Included per Bulletin
Each TSB includes a direct link to the original manufacturer PDF.
Full Coverage from 1981
Supports all major makes and models sold in the U.S. since 1981.
Bulk Processing Available
Run lookups across multiple vehicles without building custom batching logic.
Reliable Developer Support
Get the help you need with clear documentation and responsive support when it matters.
What Is a Technical Service Bulletins API?
A Technical Service Bulletins API gives you direct access to manufacturer-issued repair bulletins without needing to search multiple sources manually.
These bulletins come from automakers and are used by technicians every day. They describe known issues, recommended fixes, and sometimes even updated repair procedures.
Instead of digging through different websites and forums, the API delivers everything in a structured format your system can use instantly, including the full repair summary and a direct link to the original manufacturer PDF for each bulletin.
What the TSB API Returns for Each Vehicle
Each response includes real bulletin data pulled directly from manufacturer sources. Here’s what the API provides:
Vehicle Information
- Year
- Make
- Model
Bulletin Identification
- Bulletin number
- Manufacturer reference
Issue Overview
- Bulletin title
- Make
Publication Details
- Issue date
- Release timeline
Official Documentation
- Direct PDF link
- Manufacturer-issued bulletin
Try the Technical Service Bulletins API Instantly
Not sure what you’re getting? Enter any VIN below and see every manufacturer-issued bulletin on file for that vehicle. No account or credit card needed!
How the Technical Service Bulletins API Works
You don’t need a complex setup to get started. Send a VIN or vehicle details, and the API handles the rest. The steps to follow are:
Step 1: Submit the VIN or Year, Make, and Model
Pass a 17-character VIN or a year, make, and model combination to the endpoint using a standard GET request. These are the two supported input methods.
Step 2: We Find Exact Technical Service Bulletins
The system queries the vehicle manufacturer bulletins database and identifies every bulletin issued for that vehicle matched against make, model, and year.
Step 3: Receive Structured TSB Data Instantly
Your response is a JSON array including the bulletin number, title, issue date, full repair summary, and a direct link to the original manufacturer's PDF document.
Supported Vehicle Coverage
The technical service bulletin database covers all major makes and models sold in the US from 1981 forward, with no brand exclusions.
Supported Regions
United States
Model Year Coverage
1981 to current model year
Supported Makes
Our TSB API supports a wide range of manufacturers, including but not limited to:
Get Technical Service Bulletins For All Makes and Models
Acura
Audi
BMW
Buick
Cadillac
Chevrolet
Chrysler
Dodge
Ford
GMC
Honda
Hyundai
Infiniti
Jaguar
Jeep
Kia
Land Rover
Lexus
Mazda
Mercedes-Benz
Mini
Mitsubishi
Nissan
Porsche
RAM
Subaru
Tesla
Toyota
Volkswagen
Volvo
Start Pulling Technical Service Bulletins Without Writing Any Code!
Sign up and you can start pulling technical service bulletins right away from your Vehicle Databases dashboard. Enter a VIN or year, make, and model and every manufacturer-issued bulletin for that vehicle comes back instantly.
Connect it to your platform whenever you are ready.
Example TSB API Response
See how the request works and what the response looks like:
{
"year": 2015,
"make": "Volkswagen",
"model": "CC",
"data": [
{
"number": "VWP-19-07",
"title": "Airbag Control Module Limited Warranty Extension",
"date": "11/14/2019",
"summary": "For vehicles applicable to the 69Z5 campaign, Volkswagen is extending warranty coverage for the Airbag Control Module in certain 2015-2016 model year Tiguan and CC vehicles for a time period of 10 years, unlimited mileage from the vehicle's original in-service date. The vehicle's original in-service date is defined as the date the vehicle was delivered to either the original purchaser or the original lessee; or if the vehicle was first placed in service as a \"demonstrator\" or \"company\" car, on the date such vehicle was first placed in service.",
"pdf": "https://vhr.nyc3.digitaloceanspaces.com/tsb-data/vwp-19-07/airbag-control-module-limited-warranty-extension.pdf",
},
{
"number": "WLA-22-15",
"title": "ACC Calibration Process",
"date": "11/16/2022",
"summary": "For Adaptive Cruise Control repairs, Dealer must validate the ACC calibration is required for Warranty reimbursement. To determine if the calibration is required, the Dealer must always refer to the Repair Manual in Elsa for each VIN to validate if repair meets one of the qualifying conditions. Qualifying conditions may vary by model. Refer to the example below. Once it's determined the calibration is necessary, the Dealer must complete the calibration using VW Approved ODIS Scan Tool. Claims may be subject to cancellation if the calibration was not required for repairs or if a non-VW Approved Scan Tool is used to complete calibration. The use of Aftermarket Scan Tools are not permitted per Policy and the Repair Manual.",
"pdf": "https://vhr.nyc3.digitaloceanspaces.com/tsb-data/wla-22-15/acc-calibration-process.pdf",
},
{
"number": "VWM-14-02",
"title": "Volkswagen Carefree Maintenance Program - Gasoline Engines Model Year 2015 and Newer",
"date": "6/25/2014",
"summary": "This communication contains important information and SAGA claim entry requirements for the Volkswagen Carefree Maintenance Program for all Model Year 2015 and newer VW models with Gasoline Engines. Scheduled Maintenance Interval - 10,000 miles or one year from the original vehicle in-service date, whichever occurs first (Applicable for all MY 2015 and newer Volkswagen models equipped with Gasoline Engines.)",
"pdf": "https://vhr.nyc3.digitaloceanspaces.com/tsb-data/vwm-14-02/volkswagen-carefree-maintenance-program---gasoline-engines-model-year-2015-and-newer.pdf",
},
{
"number": "VWP-20-02",
"title": "Volkswagen CC Tire Class Action Settlement",
"date": "3/2/2020",
"summary": "For applicable 2009-2017 Volkswagen CC Settlement Class Vehicles, Volkswagen will provide current owners or lessees with up to two tire rotations, at no charge to the customer, to be performed at the recommended tire rotation intervals by the manufacturer of the vehicle's tires, performed by an authorized Volkswagen Dealer until the Settlement Class Vehicle reaches an original odometer mileage of 110,000 miles or both complimentary tire rotations have been redeemed, whichever occurs first.",
"pdf": "https://vhr.nyc3.digitaloceanspaces.com/tsb-data/vwp-20-02/volkswagen-cc-tire-class-action-settlement.pdf",
},
{
"number": "VWP-20-03",
"title": "Intake Manifold Limited Warranty Extension",
"date": "3/23/2020",
"summary": "Volkswagen has extended the Warranty coverage for the intake manifold to 10 years or 120,000 miles, whichever occurs first, from the vehicle's original in-service date, for certain 2015 Model Year Volkswagen Tiguan, CC and EOS with engine codes CBFA and CCTA. The vehicle's original in-service date is defined as the date the vehicle was delivered to either the original purchaser or the original lessee; or if the vehicle was first placed in service as a \"demonstrator\" or \"company\" car, on the date such vehicle was first placed in service.",
"pdf": "https://vhr.nyc3.digitaloceanspaces.com/tsb-data/vwp-20-03/intake-manifold-limited-warranty-extension.pdf",
},
{
"number": "VWP-22-03",
"title": "Takata Airbag Inflator Limited Warranty Extension",
"date": "4/25/2022",
"summary": "For vehicles applicable to the Takata Airbag Inflator Recalls, Volkswagen has extended the Warranty coverage for the Driver and Passenger Takata Airbag Inflator.",
"pdf": "https://vhr.nyc3.digitaloceanspaces.com/tsb-data/vwp-22-03/takata-airbag-inflator-limited-warranty-extension.pdf",
},
{
"number": "VWP-23-01",
"title": "Emergency Repairs",
"date": "2/6/2023",
"summary": "3.5.1 Emergency Repairs Emergency warranty repairs may be necessary at a time or place where the customer is unable to have repairs performed by an authorized Volkswagen Dealer, and has no other recourse but to have them performed by an independent/non-franchise repair shop.",
"pdf": "https://vhr.nyc3.digitaloceanspaces.com/tsb-data/vwp-23-01/emergency-repairs.pdf",
}
]
}
Real Problems The Technical Service Bulletins API Solves
Most teams don’t realize they’re missing TSB data until it starts costing time, money, or accuracy. Here’s what that looks like in real workflows and how this API fixes it.
Repair Shops and Service Platforms
Diagnostics Taking Too Long
Technicians spend time chasing issues that already have known fixes.
Use technical service bulletins by VIN to surface known problems instantly and go straight to the correct repair.
MarketPlaces & History Tools
Vehicle Listings Missing Key Details
Buyers see specs and history, but not known issues tied to the vehicle.
Integrate a technical service bulletin API to show relevant bulletins and give buyers a clearer picture before purchase.
Warranty Providers
Warranty Claims Being Misjudged
Without access to a full technical service bulletin database, valid claims can be missed or processed incorrectly.
Check TSB records for each vehicle to confirm repair conditions and improve claim accuracy.
Fleet Management
Fleet Issues Showing Up Too Late
Issues are only fixed after something breaks, instead of being caught early.
Use the API to track known issues and plan maintenance before breakdowns happen.
Parts Platforms
Parts Demand Catching Suppliers Off Guard
Demand for certain parts rises quickly when common vehicle issues start showing up.
Monitor TSB trends to anticipate which components will be needed and adjust inventory ahead of time.
Insurance Companies
Claims Lacking Technical Context
Insurance decisions are made without knowing if an issue is already documented by the manufacturer.
Use a TSB API to surface known issues during claim evaluation and improve decision accuracy.
Vehicle Databases’ TSB API vs. the NHTSA Database
| Feature | NHTSA Database | Vehicle Databases API |
|---|---|---|
| All makes in one place | Partial | Yes |
| Full API access | No | Yes |
| PDF documents included | Partial | Yes, via API |
| Coverage back to 1981 | Partial | Yes |
| Bulk / batch lookup | No | Yes |
| Structured JSON output | No | Yes |
| Built for integration | No | Yes |
| Cost | Free, limited | Free trial before payment |
APIs That Pair Naturally with the TSB API
If you’re building something larger, this API works even better with others. The top picks are:
Open NHTSA recall data by VIN. Pairs directly with technical service bulletins by VIN for a complete vehicle safety and service history in one stack.
Year, make, model, trim, engine, and drivetrain from any VIN. The foundational layer for any vehicle-facing application.
Factory owner’s manual by VIN. A natural complement for repair platforms and post-purchase service tools.
Original Monroney label data including factory MSRP, installed options, and EPA figures.
Current retail, trade-in, and wholesale values by VIN. Useful alongside TSB data for accurate used vehicle assessment.
Full technical specs by year, make, model, and trim. Engine output, dimensions, towing capacity, and more.
Need something more specific? We also provide custom automotive data solutions. If your platform requires a unique dataset or customized API integration, our team can build it.
Hear From Teams Using Our APIs Every Day
From small platforms to large automotive systems, teams use our APIs because they work reliably and fit into real workflows. Here’s what they have to say about us:
Start Pulling TSB Data in Seconds!
Send your first request and get structured technical service bulletins by VIN instantly. No complex setup, just clean data ready to use. Need the full dataset without an integration? You can easily download the complete technical service bulletin database as a flat file. Make a request now!
FAQs About the Technical Service Bulletins API
Where can I find technical service bulletins for my car?
The most complete way to access auto technical service bulletins for your car is through a dedicated TSB lookup tool or API. NHTSA publishes some bulletins on their website, but coverage is incomplete, and pre-2012 records are frequently missing.
The Vehicle Databases TSB API lets you retrieve every matching bulletin for any vehicle by entering the VIN or year, make, and model.
What's the difference between a TSB and a recall?
A recall is issued when a safety defect is identified. It is overseen by NHTSA, owners must be notified, and all repairs are done at no cost to the owner. A technical service bulletin is issued by the manufacturer alone to document a known issue and its recommended fix.
No government agency is involved; owners are not required to be notified, and repair costs depend on whether the vehicle is still under warranty.
Is there a free database for technical service bulletins?
Yes, NHTSA provides free access to some TSBs through their website, but the database is incomplete, difficult to query programmatically, and missing many pre-2012 records.
The Vehicle Databases technical service bulletin database provides full structured access via API across all makes from 1981, with PDF documents included per bulletin.
How do repair shops use TSB information?
Repair shops use TSBs to skip unnecessary diagnostic time on issues the manufacturer has already identified and documented a fix for. When a technician searches for relevant bulletins before starting a repair, they can go directly to the approved procedure rather than diagnosing from scratch.
Can I get TSBs for my car by using the VIN number?
Yes. The find TSB by VIN endpoint accepts a 17-digit VIN and returns every matching bulletin for that vehicle. If you do not have the VIN, you can also query by year, make, and model.
How often are TSB databases updated?
New bulletins are issued by manufacturers on an ongoing basis. The Vehicle Databases technical service bulletin database is updated regularly as manufacturers release new bulletins, ensuring the data reflects the latest available records for each make and model.
What kind of information is included in a technical service bulletin?
Each TSB record in the API response includes the bulletin number, title, issue date, a full repair summary describing the problem and the manufacturer’s recommended procedure, and a direct link to the original manufacturer PDF document.
Are TSBs available for all car makes and models?
Yes. The vehicle service bulletins API covers all major makes and models sold in the US from 1981 forward with no brand exclusions. See the full manufacturer coverage list on this page.
How can a TSB API help my auto repair business?
The technical service bulletins API lets your platform surface relevant bulletins for any vehicle automatically, without manual lookups on NHTSA or individual OEM portals.
For shop management software, this means technicians see open TSBs alongside every work order. For parts platforms, it means predicting demand from new bulletin activity. For warranty tools, it means correctly identifying coverage before a claim is processed.
Do TSBs apply to used cars?
Yes, TSBs apply to used cars. A TSB applies to any vehicle that falls within the affected make, model, year, and production range, regardless of how many times it has changed hands.
If the vehicle is no longer under the original warranty, the owner will typically pay for any TSB-related repair out of pocket unless the manufacturer has issued a warranty extension alongside the bulletin.