Consumer Safety Complaints
Search 2,215,138 safety complaints filed by vehicle owners with NHTSA — including 138,663 crashes, 56,255 fires, and 8,561 deaths.
What is a NHTSA consumer complaint?
A consumer complaint is a free-form report filed by a vehicle owner directly to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) describing a safety concern about their vehicle. NHTSA collects these reports through its Vehicle Owner Defect Report (VOQ) system and publishes them publicly. Each complaint includes the affected component, the date and circumstances of the incident, whether the failure caused a crash or fire, and any reported injuries or deaths. The owner's full narrative description is included verbatim — NHTSA does not edit or moderate the descriptions.
The database below contains over 2,215,138 individual complaints. NHTSA's investigators monitor it for clusters of similar reports — when enough owners describe the same failure mode on the same vehicle, NHTSA may open a Preliminary Evaluation that can lead to a recall. Many of the largest recalls in U.S. history, including the Takata airbag recall and the Hyundai/Kia engine fire recalls, started as patterns visible in this complaint database years before they became formal recalls.
How to interpret what you read
A few principles for reading consumer complaints usefully:
- One complaint is anecdote; a hundred similar complaints is data. NHTSA does not investigate the truthfulness of any individual report — that's the job of the Office of Defects Investigation, which looks at the full pattern. When evaluating a vehicle, look for whether multiple owners describe the same chain of events.
- Crash, fire, injury, and death flags are owner-set. They are not verified by NHTSA. They are still useful as a filter, because owners who tick those boxes are typically reporting more serious incidents than those who don't.
- Component categories are NHTSA-assigned, not owner-assigned. NHTSA standardizes the component field so that complaints can be aggregated. The owner narrative often goes into more detail than the component category captures.
- Complaint volume scales with sales volume. A best-selling model will accumulate more raw complaints than a niche model even at the same defect rate. To compare across vehicles, look at complaints per 100,000 units sold, not raw counts.
If you've experienced a defect
File a complaint. NHTSA's investigators rely on this database to detect emerging defects, and useful complaints — specific, concrete, with dates and mileage and clear descriptions of what happened — feed directly into the agency's pattern detection. The form takes about 10 minutes and is at nhtsa.gov/recalls under "Report a Safety Problem." Your complaint becomes part of the same public record that this page is built from. Owners filing detailed VOQs are how recalls get triggered.
Read more from our blog
Showing 187,860 complaints — component: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
FORD
F-150 LIGHTNING BEV
(2023) — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jun 3, 2026
Incident date: Mar 31, 2026
Ford Motor Company has failed to remedy NHTSA Safety Recall 25V863 (Ford recall number 25C69, Integrated Park Module / Park Pawl Engagement) on my vehicle within the timely manner required, and the recall remains in "Recall Incomplete" status more than four months past Ford's own stated remedy availability deadline. The recall was announced on January 26, 2026. The defect — the Integrated Park M... Read more
Incident date: Mar 1, 2026
My 2021 Tesla Model Y experienced a critical failure resulting in the vehicle displaying diagnostic code BMS_079. After the fault appeared, I was informed that the vehicle's High-Voltage (HV) Battery requires replacement at a cost exceeding $10,000. As a result of this failure, the vehicle is no longer drivable and has been effectively rendered unusable. The High-Voltage (HV) Battery Management S... Read more
Incident date: Jun 4, 2025
Battery dies all the time. Parasitic drain from the Starlink program in the car. There is/was a lawsuit. It involves some DCW fuse or something. Ive had to prematurely replace my battery. It also seems to be affecting the radio. It switches stations randomly.
Incident date: May 19, 2026
am reporting a serious safety concern involving a 2025 Tesla Model Y, VIN [XXX] . On [XXX], the vehicle was being driven on [XXX] in Columbus, Ohio while the driver was traveling to Columbus Preparatory Academy. During the trip, the steering reportedly stopped responding properly, and the driver struggled to control the vehicle. Witnesses at the scene reported that the driver appeared to be fight... Read more
Crash
MERCEDES-BENZ
GLS 450
(2020) — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jun 3, 2026
Incident date: Mar 18, 2026
AMENDMENT TO ACTIVE CASE 11723015. CRITICAL AIRBAG & SAFETY DEFECTS. This files a safety defect amendment to open case 11723015. Diagnostic scans confirm central data bus network collapse on VIN [XXX] has migrated into safety-critical occupant restraint and visibility modules, violating 49 U.S.C. § 30118. I. AIRBAG & RESTRAINT HAZARDS Scans from [XXX], document active faults: DTC U042782: "Im... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Jun 2, 2026
Our 2015 Kia Sedona VIN [XXX] developed CAN Bus fault codes U0001 U0100 U0101 rendering it completely undrivable following an incomplete warranty extension repair under WTY019 by Kia of Des Moines on [XXX] RO# [XXX]. The power sliding doors have been a persistent safety concern. The incomplete warranty extension repair left the sliding door not closing properly creating a safety hazard. The vehic... Read more
Incident date: May 27, 2026
purchased a 2014 Chevy Equinox from Direct Auto Sales on 03/07/26, and I am currently experiencing serious issues with the vehicle after only 2 months of purchase I noticed the vehicle is making a clicking and grinding sound the vehicle powers down when driving. The problem still exists even after multiple oil changes.
Incident date: May 7, 2026
New car, only 800 miles, 12V battery drained and is dead. Needed to be replaced. Internal process draining battery. Multiple similar complaints online
Incident date: Jun 2, 2026
My car has shut off for a second time without warning. This time was in a busy chic [XXX] drive through line in [XXX] . The car read “low power steering” and the battery and engine light came on. These have both been checked before in addition to the alternator and they cannot find an issue. I am having it taken back to the dealership tomorrow for further investigation. Given I purchased this... Read more
Incident date: Jun 2, 2026
Upon starting my truck, the Service Power Steering light came on, and my steering wheel was locked, rendering me unable to move the truck and stranded. The system was scanned and reported that the internal EPS module had failed.
CHEVROLET
SILVERADO 1500
(2022) — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jun 2, 2026
Incident date: Jun 1, 2026
The vehicle experiences a recurring electronic and sensor failure where critical advanced safety systems completely shut down while driving. The dashboard displays active failures for the Front Collision Detection System, Automatic Headlights, and Lane Keeping Assistance. These sudden defects directly compromise the vehicle's crash avoidance features, nighttime visibility, and lane safety, creatin... Read more
Incident date: Jun 2, 2026
While driving on the freeway, the vehicle’s battery shut down. I received the following text as this happened, so there was no way I could react in a timely manner as to exercise safety and any precautions: “Diagnostic Alert: Low 12V battery detected in your vehicle. To recharge, try and start in a well-ventilated area. If it won't turn on, try to jump start or call 1-888-4-ONSTAR. Text STOP t... Read more
Incident date: Dec 31, 1969
Deconosco por que fue este en el sistema
VOLKSWAGEN
ID.4
(2022) — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jun 2, 2026
Incident date: May 26, 2026
What happened: On XXX at approximately 6:49 PM, shortly after departing, the vehicle displayed error and warning messages, entered neutral, and would not engage Drive or Regenerative Brake mode. The vehicle remained inoperable in this condition for approximately one hour near the intersection at approximately [XXX] , during rush hour traffic. The vehicle recovered without mechanical intervention. ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 2, 2026
Auto Idle Stop (AIS) system fail to restart: The engine fails to restart on its own after a complete stop at a traffic light or intersection with the Auto Start/Stop function engaged, putting the driver in dangerous and panic situation.
VOLKSWAGEN
ID.4
(2022) — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jun 2, 2026
Incident date: May 11, 2026
Component/System: Electrical system / electric drive control system. Available for inspection upon request. What happened: On XXX at approximately 5:45 PM, shortly after departing, the vehicle displayed error and warning messages, entered neutral, and would not engage Drive or Regenerative Brake mode. The vehicle remained inoperable in this condition for approximately one hour at approximately [XX... Read more
VOLKSWAGEN
ID.4
(2022) — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jun 2, 2026
Incident date: Feb 23, 2026
Component/System: Electrical system / electric drive control system. Available for inspection upon request. What happened: On XXX at approximately 3:43 PM, shortly after departing, the vehicle displayed electrical system warning and error messages, entered neutral, and would not engage Drive or Regenerative Brake mode. The vehicle remained inoperable in this condition for approximately one hour at... Read more
Incident date: Dec 31, 1969
Subject: 2019 Jaguar XE – Recall H535 Did Not Restore Rear Camera Function I own a 2019 Jaguar XE that experienced rear-view camera failure consistent with Recall H535 regarding rear camera wiring issues. My rear camera stopped functioning before recall service, which is why I brought the vehicle to the dealer. After performing the recall repair, the dealer advised that the camera itself may h... Read more
Incident date: Apr 15, 2026
The vehicle has an unresolved electrical/propulsion failure involving sudden shutdowns while driving and CAN C bus/lost-communication faults. Since the high-voltage battery was replaced through a recall-related repair, the vehicle has had repeated shutdown/loss-of-communication events, occurring dozens of times. In the most serious incidents, while driving at speed, the dash flickered, windshield... Read more
Incident date: Nov 20, 2025
The contact owns a 2022 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving the vehicle on many occasions, the vehicle would start up and display odd error messages. For example, if the vehicle was plugged in, it stated to go to the owner's manual. The vehicle would not move and caused the vehicle to go into park. Clearing the messages and restarting the vehicle caused it to work again. The contact... Read more
Incident date: Jun 2, 2026
Before I begin my commute, I’m greeted by a persistent message within the center infotainment display from the satellite radio service provider SirusXM. The message will not go away until manually closed out, as the exit button is farther away from the drivers reach (more accessible from the passenger side). This can lead to distracted driving, especially if you’ve already expressed no interes... Read more
Incident date: May 22, 2026
The Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU) on this vehicle produces loud whirring noises when charging at 80% or above. This has been documented in writing to the service department. The ICCU defect is a known systemic issue across the Hyundai and Kia EV platform. The vehicle is currently scheduled to return to the dealer for this and other defects. This is the second major service visit on a... Read more
Incident date: May 22, 2026
I go to turn on the car on a Friday night and it won’t turn on. I got multiple failures and it said fatal errors take to dealer immediately. I brought the car to the dealer and they said the control panel needs to be replaced and they’re estimating at least a month. I’m one of four cars on a lot that need work for the same exact issue.
Incident date: Jun 1, 2026
Many controls are integrated within the main infotainment screen on the 2024 Outback. Every month or so, a SiriusXM advertisement will randomly pop-up on the screen, taking up the entire screen, rendering all screen controls/buttons useless. This is a safety concern, as not only screen controls are blocked when this ad appears, but air and comfort controls are blocked until the ad pop-up is closed... Read more
Incident date: May 29, 2026
Component: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/LOW VOLTAGE BATTERY, PROPULSION system:Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU) Description: This vehicle previously had the mandated safety recall software update (Campaign SC327) applied by an authorized Kia dealership in December 2024 to protect the Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU). The corporate recall remedy failed. In January 2026, the vehicle suffered... Read more
Incident date: Jun 1, 2026
I pulled my car out of the garage and proceeded to drive up the street. I suddenly heard a weird sound and an emergency warning appeared on my dashboard stating to check vehicle electrical system. I immediately stopped the car and returned it to the garage. Upon turning the car on a second time to check the message a second message appeared saying “stop vehicle and check power supply”. I calle... Read more
Incident date: Apr 26, 2026
I own a 2020 Lincoln Aviator. After starting the vehicle, I exited without intentionally placing the vehicle in gear. The vehicle began rolling backward unexpectedly after I exited. I was struck and injured by the vehicle, resulting in a laceration to my shin requiring eight stitches. At no point did I intentionally place the vehicle in a position that would allow it to move. The vehicle did not a... Read more
Incident date: May 17, 2026
On three separate occasions — May 17, May 20, and May 29, 2026 — the vehicle's Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) / Collision Mitigation Braking System activated without cause while traveling at highway speed (one of these occasions was on an interstate). On each occasion, no vehicles, pedestrians, or obstructions were present ahead of or around the vehicle. The road was clear. The activation p... Read more
Incident date: May 28, 2026
During low speed driving, mainly stop and go traffic the truck will randomly lunge forward when the brake pedal is engaged. It happens when accelerating and the truck will shift in to second gear, then if you apply the brake the truck will act like it is going to stall, the engine rpm will spike and the truck will launch forward. If you dont force the brake pedal to the floor, the truck will con... Read more
Incident date: May 31, 2026
The contact owns a 2019 Porsche MACAN. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact noticed an abnormal loud sound. In addition, the contact stated none of the safety features functioned as intended. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed power control module. The contact was informed that the power control module needed to be replace... Read more
Incident date: May 28, 2026
The contact owns a 2026 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated that while driving at 65 MPH, with the autopilot feature engaged, the vehicle approached a lane closure as big, metal arrow road signs where on the road indicating the road closure. The contact, who was distracted at the time, expected the vehicle to acknowledge the road closure and switch lanes. The vehicle failed to recognize the Chevron ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 2, 2026
Body Control Module failure. Car starts on its own in accessory mode, draining battery. Not able to start car. Very common issue. But could cause fire from battery.
Incident date: Jan 1, 2019
Front turn indicator lights have gone out. Unfortunately, due to Chevy's vehicle design, the bulbs can only be replaced by pulling the bumper off in total and replacing bulbs. Then, putting entire bumper system back. This information was given to me by Chevrolet of Issaquah AND confirmed by Bonita Point Repair in Chula Vista California.
Incident date: May 30, 2026
While operating the vehicle, I began to hear a metallic grinding noise originating from the center of the engine compartment. The sound was clearly audible within the cabin. Approximately one mile before the vehicle ultimately failed, the engine began to malfunction. As I slowed to a stoplight, the vehicle started to shake before shutting off abruptly and entering a coasting state. All electrical ... Read more
Incident date: May 20, 2026
The horn on my vehicle activates (blows) when I turn the steering wheel to certain positions. I believe this to be a road hazard. Especially since I had to remove the horn relay to prevent the horn from blowing in traffic until I can get it repaired. Several other Ford vehicles have been recalled for this exact problem. Just to diagnose this problem at the Ford dealer is $170.00. Help!
Incident date: Nov 15, 2025
The vehicle experienced a thermal event that was caused by a defective fan motor. The vehicle has been inspected by stellantis and a third party investigator. Report attached
Fire
Incident date: Oct 14, 2025
The vehicle experienced a thermal event that was caused by a defective fan motor. The vehicle has been inspected by stellantis and a third party investigator. Report attached
Fire
Incident date: Jan 6, 2026
One day, the bright headlamps stopped working. The light on the dashboard indicating that they are on still works but the lights themselves, do not turn on. Yes, it is available for inspection. There was and has been no warning. It has not been looked at by a dealer or anyone else.
Incident date: May 1, 2026
Automatic CVT failure confirmed by Future Nissan of Roseville CA. No warning prior to failure. Replaced by Kirkwood Autoworx Mechanical since Nissan Corporate denied a good-will replacement. Reason: 15k miles over warranty - 75081odometer reading at replacement on 5/27/26. CVT failed while on a busy street [XXX] ). I had only reverse and had to back my way out of traffic. Extremely dangerous si... Read more
FORD
MAVERICK HYBRID
(2024) — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jun 2, 2026
Incident date: May 21, 2026
My 2024 Ford Maverick (VIN [XXX] ) has had three sudden losses of drive power while driving. Each time the accelerator stopped delivering power with NO warning lights, no error messages, and no dashboard indicators before, during, or after. Each time I pulled over, shut off the vehicle, and restarting fully restored normal function. Incident 1 — Aug 2024, two-lane highway, New Mexico. Clear, ~80... Read more
Incident date: May 28, 2026
The contact owns a 2015 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact noticed an unusual burning odor in the interior of the vehicle. The contact's wife, who was seated in the front passenger's seat, noticed a fire in the power switch area of the rear driver's door. The contact then parked the vehicle. The contact extinguished the fire with a jug of water tha... Read more
Fire
Incident date: May 31, 2026
My 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Premium Plus has experienced repeated hybrid system failures. The vehicle currently has an active "Hybrid System Malfunction" warning light. This is the latest in a series of 17 recalls and recurring defects since purchase in July 2023. Most recently, the vehicle was out of service from February 14, 2026 to approximately March 18, 2026 due to a severe transmission fluid le... Read more
Incident date: May 13, 2026
The contact owns a 2022 Nissan Sentra. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the forward collision assistance sensor independently deactivated and the warning light illuminated. The contact stated electrical failures with the sunroof, radio, the heating and air conditioning. The contact stated that the failures occurred intermittently. In addition, the battery drained unusuall... Read more
Incident date: Mar 14, 2025
one morning randomly multiple warnings turned on on the dashboard of my 2020 honda odyssey . the following warnings turned on and have stayed on since: Adaptive Cruise Control Problem, Lane Keeping Assist Problem, Collision Mitigation System Problem, Road departure Mitigation Problem, Auto High-beam problem, and Brake System. This appears to be a common issue when searching online and appears to b... Read more
MERCEDES-BENZ
E 350 4MATIC
(2024) — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jun 2, 2026
Incident date: Jun 1, 2026
The contact owns a 2024 Mercedes Benz E. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, and started, the instrument panel and infotainment screen became blank. No warning indicators or audible assistance and other vehicle assistance were not able to display due to the failure. The dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of ... Read more
POLESTAR
POLESTAR 3
(2025) — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jun 2, 2026
Incident date: May 30, 2026
On-Board Charger not working on L2 charge
Incident date: May 16, 2026
Went from 65 and dropped down to 40 going up grades on the freeway. Started shaking, check engine light went on and electric battery disappeared from dash. Got to top of grade, went back to normal. Problem repeated on next grades. Car had just left dealership lot an hour prior where it was safety inspected and they said all was fine. Took back to dealership for inspection and they said that the... Read more
Incident date: May 15, 2025
this is about a recreational vehicle safety recall 24V-234 safety advisory 24-452 Suburban stove LED backlight printed circuit boards that were defective and should have been fixed or replaced under warranty. What good is a warranty if they just want to cut and terminate the circuit? Would it be ok to cut and terminate wires to a defective air bag in a vehicle? I would like to know why. We bough... Read more
Incident date: Apr 16, 2026
This is the second time the ICCU failed. The car is waiting for a full EV battery replacement. The first time the failure happened on 12/11/25, at 9,165 miles, the alert happened just before the car came to a full stop as we were driving along the road near our house, it was very difficult to steer, we were sort of stopped in the road and had to get it towed. The second time the alert came on 4/1... Read more
Incident date: Apr 14, 2026
Following a coolant rapid mate replacement performed by an authorized Tesla service center, the vehicle experienced a complete shutdown on a public road the same evening it was returned. The high-voltage cooling system was not properly purged of air following the service. This caused low coolant flow to the rear drive unit during a 63-mile drive in record heat. The fault cascade included a HIGH VO... Read more