DETROIT — General Motors and Carfax entered into an agreement this week to aid dealers, owners and potential buyers about rectifying unrepaired safety, non-compliance and emission recalls.

GM executives explained that they're providing millions of vehicle identification numbers to Carfax for units with open recalls. Brands include Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac as well as ones the automaker no longer sells, Hummer, Saab, Pontiac and Saturn.

Buyers and sellers can access this information through Carfax Vehicle History Reports and at www.carfax.com/recall by May 1.

Carfax research indicated that consumers utilizing these resources can help significantly increase completion rates on open recalls. The data also revealed that about four out of five GM owners complete recall repairs within 18 months of being notified of a recall.

"We know some people do not take their vehicles in for recall repairs when they get their letters. Carfax makes it easy for consumers to find out whether a vehicle they are considering has an open recall and increases the chances of that repair being made," stressed Jamie Hresko, GM's vice president of global quality.

"If that recall is handled well in the dealership, it can lead to more satisfied customers," Hresko continued.

In addition to regular mail required for safety recalls, the automaker reiterated that GM's OnStar operators alert owners of open recalls. The company added that they also are included on monthly OnStar diagnostic reports e-mailed to owners who opt for the service.

Gerry Bayer, vice president of Carfax, highlighted how this recall arrangement with GM is beneficial to owners, buyers and dealers.

"Open recall information is important for any used-car buying decision," Bayer insisted.

"Carfax continues to work with automotive leaders like GM to make this and other important details readily available to car buyers and sellers through Carfax Vehicle History Reports," he concluded.