Thanks everyone for the responses so far. RandallNeighbour, already found your article and printed it!
Brucelee, what is a PPI (not familiar with all the abreviations yet)? I'm buying from a trusted relative so I'm not worried about the history or any hidden issues. BUT, if he hasn't taken the car in for ALL of the recall notices (haven't asked him yet), can he still do that as the original owner or are there time limits to these?