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.
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
Showing 169,480 complaints - component: ENGINE
TOYOTA
SIENNA HYBRID
(2025) - ENGINE
Apr 14, 2026
Incident date: Oct 11, 2025
Our 2021 Kia SORENTO has been to Elmhurst kia service numerous times . The chief complaint is the Kia Sorrento keeps losing power while in drive reverse middle traffic even on the highway but yeah every time we take it in, they say either it’s the battery .you can’t use it in the Eco mode .turn off the shut off while in drive mode when at stops ! always a different excuse, but yet no recall an... Read more
Incident date: Apr 12, 2026
I have always taken my 2019 Kia Soul to the dealership in Quincy IL, where I had purchased it from as the first and only owner. I have recently drove it to work and it made an awful noise and started to run rough. Upon taking it to the dealership I learned that cylinder number 3 had blown and even melted the coil pack connector boot to the spark plug. It has used more oil than usual over the years... Read more
Incident date: Nov 17, 2025
The vehicle has experienced ongoing and unresolved issues despite multiple service visits. The primary concern is excessive engine vibration. It shakes concerningly when backed into a driveway at an incline and placed in park. This occurs while the vehicle is stationary and idling. The issue has been reproduced and acknowledged by a dealership service advisor during a test drive, who stated the v... Read more
Incident date: Apr 10, 2026
Faulty catalytic converters. Ford has a CSP for the 2018 Lincoln mkx 3.7L engine and only included police driven Mkx's which is totally unfair when they're well aware that Faulty/failing emissions catalytic converters were installed on all of them and they fail and produce p0430 codes regardless of driving habits, I've never driven any of my vehicles harshly and maintain my vehicles, yet since I'... Read more
Incident date: Jan 6, 2026
The Exhaust Heat Recovery System (EHRS) has failed for the second time on this vehicle. The first failure occurred at approximately 35,000 miles and was repaired under Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin 23-EM-009H, which Hyundai issued to address this exact defect across 2020-2023 Sonata Hybrid models. The vehicle has now reached 71,000 miles and is experiencing the identical symptoms: coolant los... Read more
Incident date: Apr 10, 2026
we took it in to be looked at after it had a o2 sensor go bad I changed the sensor and checked fluids I noticed the oil was a touch low and it had metal on the dipstick. I took in to dealership for repair / replacement and Hyundai denied the claim. Even after I have video proof from the dealer technician saying there is metal and bearing material in the oil. I took it to another dealership and the... Read more
Incident date: Jan 1, 2025
My KIA Soul 2018 caught on file while driving. The whole engine was in flames. I didn't want to die because my car has a manufacturing issue that KIA was not aware about. The dealership I've purchased the car from denied to give me a copy of the mechanical inspection done at the dealership Stonebriar Chevrolet in Frisco, TX. The flames started under the car and made its way to the engine, smoke wa... Read more
Fire
GMC
SIERRA 1500
(2023) - ENGINE
Apr 13, 2026
Incident date: Apr 12, 2026
The 2018 Yukon has been at the dealership several timeswaiting for a valve body for the transmission. There are valve body recalls for other year GM vehicles with the same transmission, but not for the 2018 model even though it appears to be the same part number. I don’t understand how this 2018 model apart of the recalls when it’s got the same issues as the newer ones. This is the second Yuk... Read more
INDIAN
CHALLENGER DARK HORSE
(2024) - ENGINE
Apr 13, 2026
Incident date: Apr 1, 2026
Subject: Safety Complaint: 2017 Infiniti Q60 - Recurring P052E Fault (Engine Shared with Mercedes) Vehicle Information: Make: Infiniti Model: Q60 Year: 2017 Engine: (Insert Engine Size, 2.0L) Incident Details: Code: P052E (Crankcase Ventilation Valve Performance) Symptoms: Check engine light, strong burnt oil smell, rough idling, low engine output/lack of acceleration. Problem Description: "I am ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 6, 2025
2026 update Dealer replaced left front brake caliper and both front pad sets due to brake shudder; left brake caliper seized (warranty). Rotors not replaced, installed aftermarket at own expense. Dealer previously replaced left switch cube due to volume up stuck on (warranty). Motorcycles of dulles damaged covers and lost screw; indian of fredericksburg corrected cover issue. Engine experiencing... Read more
Incident date: Apr 9, 2026
Head gasket failed due to bolts stretching allowing coolant to leak into the cylinder on cold starts until the engine warmed and sealed itself. Was confirmed by Honda technician be causing a misfire on cylinder 4 throwing code p0304 and all warning lights on dash going off during cold starts only. Lead to unreliable transportation, slow acceleration, and even random parking brake engagement one ti... Read more
Incident date: Apr 13, 2026
I was told by my mechanic I have a head gasket leak. Turns out there is a class action lawsuit for my 2.3 ecoboost motor for this coolant intrusion problem. It is a known problem. It is a safety issue as I’ve heard of some engine fires. My car only has 56000 miles on it but it is a 2018 so just out of the manufacturer warranty. I’ve reached out to Ford but no definitive answer on whether they ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 7, 2026
I have been trying to get a recall situated with Ford now for almost a year. They say they have no fix. I am making payments on truck and can’t use it like I should be. Even came out of my own pocket and had ford install a new fuel pump however problem came back. Just not fair I purchased a vehicle from A reputable company and they will not help me at all. Not even a loaner.
Incident date: Apr 11, 2026
Coolant control valve failed. Seems to be a known issue with year make and model but not all vin have been approved for special warranty despite occurring on same vehicle.
Incident date: Apr 13, 2026
I had stopped and put gas in for a full tank. Pulled out onto the Hwy heading towards Houston TX and was accelerating up to speed limit of 50MPH when the warning on the instrument panel displayed HYBRID SYSTEMS DISABLED pull over and stop immediately. Which I did, but I could not accelerate and was losing speed in traffic. I got safely parked and turned the vehicle off. I let the car sit for a few... Read more
Incident date: Jan 31, 2026
Check engine light coming on and off with an emissions code, transmission shifting really hard
Incident date: Mar 5, 2026
My truck has harsh shifting and gets to 3,000 RPM sometimes before it shifts. There is a loud rattle when my car is low acceleration or deceleration when coming to a stop.
Incident date: Apr 13, 2026
Failure consistent with known recall defect (NHTSA Recall 17V226) involving premature bearing wear resulting in engine seizure and sudden loss of power while driving.
Incident date: Apr 13, 2026
We believe the evaporative emissions control system (EVAP) / fuel vapor management system on our 2024 Mazda CX-90 MHEV (inline-6 mild hybrid) is malfunctioning, releasing strong raw gasoline vapors. The strong odor occurs everywhere around the vehicle while the engine is running and immediately after shutdown and exit. The problem is intermittent. No visible liquid fuel leaks have been observed. T... Read more
Incident date: Apr 10, 2026
At 30,000 had one blown head gasket and a few thousand miles later another blown head gasket. Regular maintenance and oil changes have been done and maintenance. Then last year my cam Shalf had to be replaced and now again a head gasket again. Several cylinders are missing firing. When I took in and they replaced the cam Shalf, I took it saw it said cylinder 5 was missing firing , now it’s showi... Read more
TOYOTA
HIGHLANDER
(2017) - ENGINE
Apr 13, 2026
Incident date: Apr 1, 2026
Turbo charger failed at 107,000 miles, rendering the car unable to maintain highway speed. This made it difficult to stay with the flow of traffic putting the driver at risk for an accident. There were no warning lights prior to the event. The turbo charger was replaced at owners expense by a dealer in Montana so I am not sure the original part is available for inspection.
Incident date: Mar 21, 2026
The contact owns a 2019 Volvo XC90. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle lurched forward while switching back and forth between electric and gasoline mode. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where an unknown repair was performed; however, the failure recurred while driving three years later. Additionally, the turtle warning light was illuminated with the message "... Read more
VOLKSWAGEN
ID.4
(2021) - ENGINE
Apr 13, 2026
Incident date: Apr 9, 2026
Vehicle experienced white exhaust smoke due to oil entering the exhaust system, caused by turbocharger failure. This led to contamination and failure of all O2 sensors, requiring full replacement, along with replacement of both turbochargers. The radiator also failed and had to be replaced. This appears to be a cascading mechanical failure affecting multiple major systems, including the engine, f... Read more
Incident date: Apr 30, 2024
Oil pressure light would come on and off, dealer said was probably the sensor got it replaced. Came back on the night I picked it back up.
Incident date: Apr 7, 2026
I have a 2019 GMC AT4 and it has stalled on the highway multiple times and smokes every time I started. I have read that the engine in it has been recalled on multiple other years but the one I purchased needs a $25,000 repair and it’s not safe to drive. There is not a current recall, but I’ve read that this engine on almost all the other trucks and SUVs that have it have had problems.
Incident date: Apr 13, 2026
I am reporting a serious engine defect with my 2017 Ford Escape EcoBoost. Coolant has leaked into cylinder number 4, causing engine damage and failure. The dealership confirmed this diagnosis and stated that a full engine replacement is required, with an estimated cost of $9,000–$10,000. I purchased this vehicle new in 2016 and have been the sole owner. This issue is consistent with known defe... Read more
Incident date: Sep 19, 2025
The display is shows a "Check Oil Level" error. It comes on then goes off regularly. I have verified that the oil level is OK. Took it into the dealer and he said that this is a common issue and a software fix is coming. The car only has less than 2K miles. I depend on the engine displaying error messages, but they need to be real ones. Online complaints indicate that this is a common error... Read more
Incident date: Feb 19, 2026
Urgent Safety Concern – 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid Engine Defect: I am writing to report a serious safety concern involving my 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid related to a manufacturer defect that has not been properly resolved. My vehicle experienced an issue where engine oil leaked into the engine and spark plugs due to a defect. As a result, I received a critical dashboard warning instructing me to “sto... Read more
Incident date: Feb 19, 2026
At approximately 35,900 miles, vehicle failed a block test indicating combustion gases in the cooling system. Cylinder head gasket was replaced, cylinder head was machined, and exhaust valves were replaced at an independent shop at a cost of over $5,000. Shortly after, at approximately 36,300 miles, vehicle was towed in with sudden loss of power and would not accelerate. Diagnostic codes P1064 (cy... Read more
Incident date: Apr 13, 2026
CAR STOPPED ON THE ROAD LAST WEEK 4/6/26 COULD NOT START HAD TO GET TOWED MECHANIC SAYS NO OIL IN ENGINE RECEIVED OIL CHANGE LAST MONTH
Incident date: Apr 11, 2026
The issue first began in February 2026, when the vehicle started showing signs of engine malfunction and poor performance, which ultimately led to a full engine replacement by an authorized Nissan dealership. After the engine replacement, the vehicle continued to experience serious and recurring drivability issues. On multiple occasions, including March 16–17, 2026, and most recently on April 1... Read more
Incident date: Jan 5, 2026
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The engine, battery and alternator seem to be failing or not working together. Car will sit in garage for less than 12 hours and will not start the next morning. Take the battery and alternator to get tested and everything passes. Have had the battery tested at multiple times but believe this is due ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 12, 2026
I am reporting suspected odometer fraud on my 2018 Audi Q7 3.0T Prestige (VIN: [XXX] ). Between May 8 and June 13, 2025, while I was the sole driver of the vehicle, Audi dealership service records show an odometer increase of 5,282 miles (from 78,260 to 83,542). However, independently verified GPS trip data from the Audi Connect system confirms I drove only approximately 2,103 miles during this pe... Read more
Incident date: Feb 1, 2026
Ticking sound coming from engine, possible damaged camshaft lobe due to lifter roller failure. It can cause sudden engine failure, significant power loss, and unexpected stalling while driving, increasing crash risks. The issue is linked to AFM (Active Fuel Management) system failures. The problem has been diagnosed by dealer service department. No warning lamp or message, problem first appeared ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 13, 2026
Since the day a bought the car I have had to constantly deal with oil leaks and burning up oil. We had to check the vehicle every Sunday for oil replacement. The vehicle on one day just stopped in the middle of the street. It had a complete engine failure. I had to pay thousands of dollars. I contacted Kia with out help. They claim my vehicle was not part of their class action settlement of engine... Read more
Incident date: Jun 11, 2025
I was driving home I got a message on my dash about engine pressure and then heard a loud boom, pulled off on the shoulder called a tow and the guy used to be a mechanic, he stated there was a hole in my engine and that it looked like a rod broke off and shot through the engine, I did take it to a dealership to get a diagnostic and they called and said something happened internally not sure what a... Read more
Incident date: Apr 9, 2026
The head gasket on the engine is cracked and is leaking oil and causing the oil to burn when car is driven. The problem was identified by a local mazda dealership and it is a well documented and known issue among SkyActive non-turbo engines. There were no warning lights or messages on the car, other than the smell of burning oil and smoke coming from the engine after driving. I have a toddler and ... Read more
Incident date: Jan 1, 2026
Head gasket has blown. No reason for it to. Car has just At 100,000 miles.
CHEVROLET
SILVERADO 1500
(2019) - ENGINE
Apr 13, 2026
Incident date: Nov 24, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving approximately 45 MPH, the transmission inadvertently shifted from drive (D) to first gear. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road and then towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and it was determined that the valve body needed to be replaced. The vehicle... Read more
Incident date: Apr 12, 2026
Head gasket/coolant leak. Dec 2 2025 my car started sputtering so I went into the AutoZone to use an obd2 reader for the check engine light. The code showed cylinders 2 and 3 were misfiring. I took it to the Honda dealership to fully diagnose the issue, they told me I needed new spark plugs but also that my coolant was low (they didn’t bring any concern for this) and just topped it off. They to... Read more
VOLKSWAGEN
JETTA
(2022) - ENGINE
Apr 13, 2026
Incident date: Apr 13, 2026
My 17 year old drives this car and has suddenly stalled and gone into limp mode 3 separate times (twice on busy highway) with no warning or codes provided. Most recently the vehicle alerted of overheating. After a couple trips to mechanic it was determined that head gasket is going out. It seems that this is a very common problem with this vehicle and an extreme safety hazard. Especially with you... Read more
Incident date: Mar 26, 2026
There is a click/ticking noise when vehicle is started. Noise gets louder and faster when accelerating. Have taken vehicle to 2 mechanic shops and been told by both places it is bad lifters and exhaust manifolds. I took this truck in because of loss of power. This issue has put me in unsafe/ dangerous positions on multiple occasions.
Incident date: Jul 2, 2025
The vehicle will not shut off when you shift to park. You are forced to sit in the vehicle for extended periods of time attempting to get the vehicle turned off. Apparently Chevy is familiar with eat problem and there are pending class action law suits in Ohio. According to the dealership Chevy has acknowledged there is a defect but no recall has been issued. We have had this issue for about t... Read more
Incident date: Apr 11, 2026
I keep rewriting this because for some reason it keeps timing out everytime I look for the video to attach. I brought the car to taska twice for underhood fire and ignition. No head gasket got fixed no spark plugs there is several issues water keeps getting in tires are rotted electrical problems and now head gasket is messed up because the hood wasn't put on till afterwards for the recall the ign... Read more
Incident date: Jan 20, 2026
6.2 liter L87 engine failed on highway at 101363 miles.
Incident date: Apr 12, 2026
The vehicle is experiencing engine-related excessive oil consumption, which has led to failure of the catalytic converter and emissions system. The root issue appears to be an internal engine defect causing oil to burn during operation. Yes, the vehicle is available for inspection upon request, including the engine and catalytic converter components. The excessive oil consumption creates a risk of... Read more
Incident date: Jul 1, 2025
Vehicle is experiencing critical mounting component failure very early on. Vehicle has under 50k miles but the engine mounts and thrush rod bushings are failing, putting the car at risk when driving or starting. It has been inspected by the dealership and the manufacturer has confirmed that the issue exists.
Incident date: Sep 23, 2025
The Vehicle suddenly stopped and I was unable to brake or steer the wheel while driving (loss of power/limp mode). I took it to a shop who ran a diagnostic and it came back as DTC code. I now had to tow it out of pocket to the nearest dealership.
Incident date: Apr 11, 2026
The contact owns a 2022 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. Additionally, there was an abnormally strong gasoline odor coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic; however, the vehicle was not formally diagnosed. The contact was informed that there was a crack in the engine, causin... Read more
Incident date: Apr 1, 2026
Good afternoon. I have called and spoken to my local BMW dealership at Grayson BMW service department many times. As of today they report no remedy and have no idea when a resolution will be available. Filing this complaint (second formal written complaint) due to lack of this not being in any sort of "timely manner." This recall is noted as an URGENT FIRE RISK WHEN PARKED for almost seven mon... Read more