Consumer Safety Complaints

Search 2,245,377 safety complaints filed by vehicle owners with NHTSA, including 140,173 crashes, 56,794 fires, and 8,580 deaths.

2,245,377 Total Complaints

140,173 Reported Crashes

56,794 Reported Fires

8,580 Reported 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 2,245,377 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

How to Read NHTSA Consumer Complaints › How NHTSA Investigations Work › Used Car: 7 Recall Checks to Run First › The Takata Airbag Recall: Full Story › OBD-II Codes Explained › All Articles ›

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Showing 169,480 complaints - component: ENGINE

Incident date: Jul 14, 2026

I am submitting a safety complaint regarding our 2022 Chevrolet Suburban equipped with the 6.2L L87 engine. The vehicle is subject to GM Product Safety Recall N252494000 / NHTSA Recall 25V-274. Our Suburban underwent GM's required recall inspection, including the Picoscope inspection. The engine passed the inspection and the engine oil type was changed in accordance with GM's recall procedure. Sin... Read more

Incident date: Jul 28, 2026

My check-engine light recently illuminated, and diagnostic testing identified fault code P06DA00, relating to the oil pump control valve circuit. I have been quoted over $5,000 to replace the oil control valve and oil pump harness. I was quoted the following by Mercedes Servuce in Manchester, NH- Oil Pressure Regulator Valve: need to remove lower oil pan only to access oil control valve and replac... Read more

Incident date: Aug 31, 2026

When shifting into reverse to pull out of my garage, with my foot firmly on the middle of the brake pedal, the truck suddenly accelerated, squealing the tires until I pumped the brake to make it stop. It was a very frightening experience. I drove it around town, including stopping and reversing and could not replicate it. It happened on a cold engine and it hadn’t been driven in three days. I’... Read more

Incident date: Jul 30, 2026

I was driving on the interstate and lost my engine power

Incident date: Nov 3, 2025

Had a engine failure at 93,000 miles and upon doing a vin report found out it also had a engine put it at 7,800 miles so it now has its third engine in it and also had the high pressure pump fail and the gauge cluster fail and had to be replaced

Incident date: Aug 5, 2026

I just had to put my 4th engine in my 22 Sierra at4 with the 6.2 V8. I currently have 103k miles

Incident date: Aug 20, 2026

Car began making loud rattling noise which proceeded to a larger grinding noise in the engine. Car sudden wouldn’t accelerate and had to be shut off. It wouldn’t restart and once it did get jumped produced an intensely loud grinding rattling noise. Car had to be towed to Honda which upon diagnosis was found to have metal shards in the oil pan and diagnosis to replace entire engine. Honda is de... Read more

Incident date: Aug 30, 2026

My 2024 Cadillac Escalade had the 6.2 v8 engine recall done in 6/25. I’ve put less than 8k miles on it since and just rolled 32400 miles total. While driving with my family in the car on 8/30 on the highway, it lost all power and just shut off while driving highway speeds. I was able to safely stop but very dangerous. Vehicle would not restart and had to be towed to dealer.

Incident date: Nov 27, 2025

The engine has been using atleast 1 quart of oil every 2000 miles. This is put my maintenance cost way above the estimated maintenance cost projected by the manufacturer This oil usage is also causing premature engine wear as it's a quart low every 2000 miles. Dealer responses was this is normal for this engine. I went back and forth with the about estimated maintenance cost and ofcourse there r... Read more

Incident date: Apr 1, 2026

My 2021 Kia Seltos SX Turbo (1.6L Turbo engine) is experiencing severe, excessive oil consumption, burning (and heavy smoke ) approximately 1 to 2 quarts, (Kia dealer oil change standard amount) of oil every 1,000 miles without any external visual leaks. A formal diagnosis by a certified Kia dealership confirms that heavy carbon buildup has accumulated around the piston rings, causing severe ring ... Read more

Incident date: Oct 7, 2024

Acceleration is sluggish and vehicle struggles to maintain freeway speeds. Engine stalls (engine turns off, ACC still on) during normal operation. When reducing speed approaching a stop and for making a right angle turn, only the engine shuts off, all accessories (i.e. lights, climate control, radio and navigation screen) remain on. Tachometer intermittently indicates significant increase in RPM n... Read more

Incident date: Aug 26, 2026

There have been multiple instances where the engine has locked up in the middle of me driving (usually at stop lights) where the only fix is to completely shut the car off and on again which has resulted in me almost being in an accident. This poses an extreme safety risk.

Incident date: Feb 9, 2026

First engine failed (6.2L) at 4900 miles and the was replaced. The second engine failed at 6000 miles and I am on my third engine now.

Incident date: Aug 9, 2026

This vehicle was subject to NHTSA Recall 22V-767 / Stellantis Recall Z96 for a defective Bosch CP4.2 high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) known to fail and release metal debris into the fuel system. The recall remedy (HPFP replacement) was performed at an authorized Stellantis/Ram dealership on 3/29/2024. On 8/9/2026, while driving the vehicle suddenly lost engine power and blocked the road in the left... Read more

Incident date: Jun 27, 2026

I purchased the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado with a 6.2L motor "new" from the dealer with 5700 miles on XXX. Roughly a month and 2500 miles later, my family and I were in the vehicle, 750 miles from home, returning from a vacation to [XXX] from the [XXX]/[XXX] area. It was around 8:30 in the morning and we had been on the road since the 6 o'clock hour. We were towing our our 20' fishing boat at the t... Read more

Incident date: Mar 1, 2026

The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the engine was idling rough and the vehicle vibrated violently. The contact stated that while accelerating, the vehicle hesitate while responding. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer to be diagnosed; however, no cause for the failure was found. The vehicl... Read more

Incident date: Aug 27, 2026

Took it to the dealer for the L87 recall back at the end of April 2026. GM stated that my truck passed the inspection and “upgraded” my oil to the new 0w-40 oil. Now 8-27-2026, 6500miles after the inspection. Driving to work in the morning, and my engine failed. What I believe happened was a lifter got stuck and the engine shook and all lights on the dash were flashing. Vehicle is currently... Read more

Incident date: Aug 13, 2026

6.2 motor failed in cylinder number 2

Incident date: Jul 10, 2026

On or about XXX, my KIA Sorento LX FWD Auto 2.4-liter engine with an approximate mileage of 36,000, began having drivability problems, none of which occurred before that date. On XXX the vehicle was serviced at Ourisman Chantilly Kia (VA051) for a Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign (SC340) THETA II 2.4L GDI ECM S/W Upgrade. Records reflect that it was a Theta II Emissions Logic Improvement 250A2... Read more

Incident date: Aug 26, 2026

Car stalled while driving in traffic XXX. Engine died. Warning lights ON. Restarted. Stalled 3 more times in traffic but luckily had space to pull off & engine restarted. Made it into my garage. Restarted, Check Engine Light was ON, but went OFF after time. Car would NOT move in gear. Retried several times. Presently (XXX) will crank but WON'T start. Battery good. Looking for anything else obviou... Read more

Incident date: Jun 9, 2026

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Rear Exhaust System How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Fire hazard as it was similar to a blowtorch, melted several rear panels, lights and trim while driving. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? The dealership (Elyria Hyunda... Read more

Incident date: Jun 18, 2026

Total engine failure at 81,000 miles due to coolant intrusion. This is due to a known defect by FORD as outlined in the Technical Service Bulletin #19-2346. Engine light and codes PO316 and PO304 promoted spark plug replacement, which did not clear the codes. 1 day later, the coolant intruded into the cylinder and the engine block failed. FORD stated they would extend warranty if this happens wi... Read more

Incident date: Aug 19, 2026

Subject: 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee – Sudden Loss of Power, PCM Failure, Electrical Failures, and Concern Regarding Recall-Related Symptoms I am filing this complaint because my 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee experienced a sudden and unexpected loss of power while I was driving, and I am very concerned about the safety implications and the possible connection to the recall-related electrical problems a... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2026

Cam Shaft and Lifter failure. Lifters were replaced 3 times

Incident date: Mar 12, 2026

Catastrophic internal engine failure Metal shavings throughout oil

Incident date: Aug 6, 2026

2024 Chevrolet Trax 1RS, approximately 66,000 miles. I was driving on the interstate at approximately 77 mph when I suddenly heard a very loud bang from the engine area. Immediately afterward, the vehicle began smoking both inside and outside, and there was a large black cloud of smoke behind the vehicle. The engine stalled and I lost propulsion while traveling at highway speed. I was able to mo... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2025

The contact owns a 2011 BMW 328I. The contact stated that the headlights and taillights remained illuminated after the vehicle was turned off. Additionally, the vehicle intermittently failed to start up. The contact stated that AAA jump-started the vehicle, and it was determined that the battery was in good working condition. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or ... Read more

Incident date: Aug 21, 2026

The contact owns a 2025 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while driving 15 MPH, there was an abnormal grinding sound coming from the engine. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer to be diagnosed, and the contact was informed that there was a catastrophic engine failure caused by the thrust bearing. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be ... Read more

Incident date: Jul 31, 2026

Engine went out very devastating $10k out of pocket

Incident date: Aug 3, 2026

the engine started knocking and vehicle shaking while on interstate. vehicle was towed to service center and they determined that one valve was stuck and another one turned 90 degrees and the cam shaft was also ruined. It was required to replace the engine as that was a less costly option than replacing the damaged parts. A dash light came on and was flashing while my daughter was driving it to... Read more

Incident date: Aug 21, 2026

This vehicle is a 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 featuring a 6.2L V8 engine and a 10 speed transmission, currently at 58,136 miles. The vehicle was experiencing a severe shudder. An official GM Technical Assistance Case (TAC) engineering case was opened on July 30, 2026 confirming a verified DFM cylinder deactivation or valve train malfunction. However, on August 21, 2026 the dealership falsified ... Read more

Incident date: Aug 31, 2026

After engine passed check for possible replacement because of recall, engine failed 5000 miles after. Even though I have a new engine now, there is no warranty coverage other than the lower part of the engine. I am already having misfire issues.

Incident date: Aug 22, 2026

I heard a loud popped sound from the back of my car while driving home. The car lost power and eventually died on the street. The war displacy came on to tell em to check electrical system. I originally bought th car from Capitol Huyndai in San Jose on September 2025 and it has 5992 miles. I towed the car to Dublin Hyundai for repair and confirmed the DTCP1A9096 for ICCU computer failing to cha... Read more

Incident date: Dec 31, 2022

The contact owns a 2019 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the vehicle shuddered, stalled, and there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The contact turned off and restarted the vehicle, and the vehicle returned to normal operation. The failure occurred on several occasions. The check engine and the active traction control warning lights were illuminate... Read more

Incident date: Aug 13, 2026

The engine required a short block replacement at approximately 40,000 miles. There was a severe knocking sound and the dealer diagnosed heavy scoring and abnormal wear present on the front bank cylinder walls. The result was excessive internal engine clearance and cylinder wall damage. Engine cylinder piston block holes were worn beyond spec. After 33 days the vehicle was returned and developed a ... Read more

Incident date: Aug 31, 2026

My 2021 Infiniti QX50 has suffered a catastrophic internal engine failure. This vehicle is explicitly covered under active federal safety recall NHTSA Campaign 25V437000 (Infiniti Campaign R25A8/A9 / R25B1/B2) for defective, failing main and link bearings. The Infiniti dealership is actively refusing to honor the mandated federal recall remedy. The service department is attempting to illegally b... Read more

Incident date: Apr 30, 2026

The engine shuts off to accessory mode when the car is parked or idle for more than 1 minute or so, and the “engine auto” is turned off (light illuminated)— this is our observed correlation. To clarify, the engine auto is automatically turned on when the car starts— the engine will automatically turn off for a short period of time and restart on its own. When the “engine auto” button i... Read more

Incident date: Jun 28, 2026

Engine (L87) blew up on I-80 in passing lane with no warning 14,635 miles. Almost got hit by several cars trying to get off the interstate. Sat alongside the road for 1 1/2 hours until tow truck arrived in 101 degree weather. GM provided no roadside assistance since it was a Sunday. They were incorrect with their information which caused us to walk to nearest Walmart several miles. We were 5 1/2 h... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2026

I own a 2018 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost with approximately 93,000 miles. I am experiencing a repeated cold start cam phaser rattle. This is a known issue addressed by Ford in several TSBs, including 19-2365, yet no recall has been issued. It has been "repaired" once at approximately 40,000 miles only to have the same issue reoccur at which time I was told that rattling at startup is "normal" and "si... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2026

Engine cooling system has a known leak. It is rather expensive out of pocket and although there is now a tsb the tsb does not cover the danger of overheating an engine and being stranded on the side of the road. Also the coolant leaking causes an unseen hazard by polluting water supplies with one of the more known toxins to the water and environment.

Incident date: Oct 16, 2025

I am reporting ongoing safety concerns with my 2023 Cadillac Escalade involving unexpected acceleration and loss of propulsion while driving. On XXX, while traveling to [XXX] in slow-moving traffic with Super Cruise engaged, my vehicle unexpectedly accelerated forward. I immediately applied the brakes to avoid striking the vehicle ahead. I reported the incident to the Cadillac dealership and conta... Read more

Incident date: Aug 22, 2026

While driving on a bridge at under 20 mph, the vehicle's head gasket failed, causing the engine to overheat and coolant to leak from within the engine. The vehicle threw diagnostic trouble code P2601 and immediately entered "limp mode," severely cutting engine power and vehicle speed. Because this happened on a bridge with no shoulder to safely pull over, the sudden loss of power created a serious... Read more

Incident date: Aug 31, 2026

Engine failure shut off on idle. Engine bay shakes. It unsafe to drive no indication of engine failure

Incident date: Aug 28, 2026

I have purchased brand new a 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee The engine is the new 4 cylinder hurricane engine with turbo I have had multiple incidents of flat to dull pick up when in motion between the speeds of 15-30 mph resulting in multiple near misses for serious accidents. I submitted a ticket with Jeep, had the vehicle reviewed by my dealer only to be told this is within normal limits Two days... Read more

Incident date: Aug 29, 2026

The contact owned a 2021 Nissan Leaf. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V655000 (Electrical System). The contact stated that while at a dealer charging the vehicle for approximately 15- 20 minutes, there was a fire coming from the front of the vehicle. The fire was extinguished by the fire department after several hours. A Police report was not filed. No injuries, medic... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Jul 26, 2026

I am reporting a severe, repeating, and life-threatening safety defect involving the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis on my 2020 Entegra Qwest motorhome. The vehicle intermittently and without warning drops into "limp mode" while traveling at highway speeds. When this occurs, the vehicle suffers a sudden, drastic loss of propulsion, forcing the motorhome down to dangerously low speeds on active, hig... Read more

Incident date: Aug 2, 2026

I was driving home from a road trip with my family of four, and I noticed that when I accelerated, the engine made a knocking noise. Prior to this, I had driven the car about 300 miles that day with no issues. While I was driving, my wife asked if we could record the noise so we could take it to a mechanic to diagnose the issue. While filming, I revved the engine a few times, and the noise would g... Read more

Incident date: Jul 29, 2026

ABS Traction control and Brake light displays on the dash, Mechanic retreived code C2200-49 Also causes Service Trailer Brake system to be inoperative.

Incident date: Oct 1, 2025

The contact owns a 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated that on several occasions while driving and accelerating, the vehicle stalled and jolted forward. Additionally, while driving at undisclosed speeds, the vehicle lost automotive power with the check engine warning light flashing on and off. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed; however, the contact was infor... Read more

Incident date: Aug 20, 2026

Currently receiving it's 4th engine (it has shut down on me while driving down the road, twice) onStar module has been replaced, radiator has been replaced (i think twice), sway bar has been replaced, front suspension problems multiple times (i don't remember all of them), coolant leak, for some reason eats up front tires in about 10K miles and nobody can explain why (discount tire says they have ... Read more

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Consumer Safety Complaints

What is a NHTSA consumer complaint?

How to interpret what you read

If you've experienced a defect

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