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
CASTLE ROCK
RADIAL ST226
(9999) - ENGINE
Mar 6, 2026
Incident date: Mar 5, 2026
The recall on the fuel issue was released in July 2025. This is now March 2026. Eight months should be enough time to get the parts needed for this repair. What can you do to see about getting this process accelerated? Thank you.
Incident date: Feb 27, 2026
Engine-Excessive oil consumption. Other-backup camera does not work and hasn’t for some time is 2028 sant fe sport included in recall
DODGE
GRAND CARAVAN
(2018) - ENGINE
Mar 6, 2026
Incident date: Feb 23, 2026
I had just pulled off from street light, hit button to turn auto engine shutoff off, all of sudden I lose power as if I'm in neutral, engines reving up but won't go. Then kicks in but with less power like gears will not shift. I get to my destination but car will not go in reverse.
Incident date: Mar 4, 2026
While driving, the check engine light appeared and the vehicle began running rough and hesitating during acceleration. The engine experienced a noticeable loss of power, which created a dangerous situation in traffic and nearly caused an accident when attempting to accelerate with surrounding vehicles. The vehicle was taken to a Honda dealership for diagnosis. The dealership confirmed a failed fue... Read more
Incident date: Feb 27, 2026
I have not been involved in no incident or accident with anybody but my vehicle is installing up and dying in the middle of the road the power steering is locking up the battery is draining and the car is cutting off I had the battery replaced and I'm still losing power in my battery and I can't figure out why I'm not too long after the battery dying and the vehicle starting up and dying it starte... Read more
VOLKSWAGEN
ID.4
(2023) - ENGINE
Mar 5, 2026
Incident date: Mar 5, 2026
*The engine began sputtering really bad and the check engine light came on. I brought the vehicle to the dealership that I purchased it from and they recommended a fuel system flush and change the spark plugs. I had them change the spark plugs and the check engine was cleared but still sputtered a bit. So I brought it to my mechanic who does most of my work and his diagnosis was that oil was blowi... Read more
JEEP
GRAND CHEROKEE
(2022) - ENGINE
Mar 5, 2026
Incident date: Feb 20, 2026
The engine continues to have a burning smell or rotten egg smell at high speeds, the car continues to hesitate when taking off from a red light like it is going to shut off and then jumps forward, and the engine continues to lag as does the battery or power when turning on the vehicle most mornings. I have brought the car in several times to the dealership and due to there being no codes showing, ... Read more
Incident date: Jan 22, 2026
2014 Ford Escape 1.6L engine with ECO boost. Alarm on dash for High Engine temperature, Stop Safely. Pulled vehicle to side of road and fire was under hood. Attempted to extinguish with standard fire extinguisher; called 911 and fire department had to extinguisher. Vehicle was towed to local shop.
Fire
Incident date: Feb 22, 2026
Engine failure due to coolant intrusion. Ford has issued a technical bulletin to its technicians regarding this issue. While my wife was driving the vehicle, a warning light first appeared indicating that the engine temperature was high. Shortly afterward, the warning escalated to a red alert stating that the transmission was blocked. My wife immediately turned off the engine to prevent further d... Read more
Incident date: Mar 5, 2026
The car only has 150 miles on it and I bought it 3 days ago and there is a LOW ENGINE OIL warning on the dash.
Incident date: Jun 1, 2025
My 2023 Ford Escape acts like it is about to stall out once I hit the gas from a stop. It has happened multiple times. After idling for 10 minutes when I go to take off it will shift so hard that it pushes you forward in your seat. It has not been taken to a dealership yet since no light comes on and it doesn’t happen all the time. It has put my safety at risk since I was turning on the highway... Read more
Incident date: Sep 3, 2025
This vehicle is a 1 year old (2025) Honda Odyssey with roughly 11,000 miles. On two separate occasions now, the auto start-stop feature has caused the engine to die altogether. On both occasions, the vehicle stopped at a red light in a busy intersection, the auto start-stop feature turned off the engine (intentionally), but when the light turned green and my foot came off the brake and onto the ga... Read more
Incident date: Nov 1, 2025
The contact owns a 2019 Kia Niro. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle jerked. The check engine warning light and the hybrid battery warning light were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the clutch actuator was leaking, and the dual clutch and slave cylinder needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaire... Read more
Incident date: Mar 4, 2021
Suddenly car is excessively loud when first started for roughly 30 seconds and then quiets to normal. However when placed in Drive there is a loud "clunk" that takes place to allow the car to shift into gear. While driving the car shakes vigorously. These issues all point to the enigine mount recall that did not include my vehicle, but should have. NHTSA Recall Number 20V788000 should be expanded ... Read more
HARLEY-DAVIDSON
RH1250S
(2023) - ENGINE
Mar 5, 2026
Incident date: Mar 4, 2026
Key Details of BMW EGR Recall: • Affected Models: Primarily 2013-2018 BMW 328d/xDrive, 535d/xDrive, 740Ld, X3 xDrive28d, and X5 XDrive35d. • The Problem: The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler may leak coolant internally, which can mix with soot to form flammable deposits, potentially leading to a Fire I was driving and my car started to smoke out of engine compartment I pulled over and w... Read more
Incident date: Jan 12, 2026
we've had to replace the engine. Twice and the electric power steering quit, working completely.And now they want five thousand dollars to replace it.When it's a known problem.
Incident date: Feb 18, 2026
While driving through west Los Angeles, the vehicle suddenly began emitting white smoke from the engine compartment. There were no prior warning lights, messages, or symptoms indicating a problem. The smoke quickly intensified and turned dark. Thick smoke filled the air, and the cockpit, with the smell of toxic fumes. I safely maneuvered to the shoulder and exited the vehicle with my passenger. Fl... Read more
Fire
Incident date: Mar 1, 2026
Over a year ago, my vehicles engine began ticking. On 12/14/2024, while driving the vehicle, it developed a rod knock, went into a limp mode and was towed back to our house. I eventually took the vehicle to Honda in Beaumont, Tx where they did an inspection of the vehicle and verbally told me it was the crankshaft, but would not provide me any documentation stating that. According to the lady at t... Read more
Incident date: Jan 17, 2026
On September 15–16, 2025, my vehicle was serviced at AutoNation CDJR North Columbus, where the technician documented: “Oil filter housing failed internally.” •No repair, replacement, or warning was provided to me about the risk of catastrophic engine failure. •I was not presented a signed repair decline form. •Internal failure was documented but not escalated. On February 13, 2026, th... Read more
Incident date: Nov 20, 2025
The part on my truck in question is the "OEM Actuator Manifold Runner", or "ISV Actuator", or "Swirl Valve Actuator". I've seen the part called several things online. My mechanic and dealerships I've visited with tell me this part is on major back order and 300+ individuals nationwide are also waiting on the part. I'm told there is no open recall for this part. My truck is currently not safe t... Read more
TOYOTA
RAV4 PRIME
(2023) - ENGINE
Mar 5, 2026
Incident date: Jun 10, 2025
My vehicle started making a weird noise and when I took it to the shop, they told me my crankshaft has gone bad and I was lucky I caught it before the entire engine blew
Incident date: Nov 17, 2025
Upper radiator hose leak with 36,750 miles(just out of warranty) 3 days after it was at dealer for oil change and replacing the heat shield. Apparently VERY common in these vehicles which says they are aware but haven't FIXED the issue, should be a RECALL!!
Incident date: Feb 2, 2026
The contact owns a 2025 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle started shaking violently. The check engine warning light came on, and the vehicle lost motive power and stalled. The contact used a scanner to identify an error code. The contact was able to restart the vehicle and drove to the residence while driving 20 MPH with the vehicle shaking a... Read more
JEEP
GRAND CHEROKEE
(2019) - ENGINE
Mar 5, 2026
Incident date: Mar 5, 2026
The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to accelerate to 40 MPH. In addition, the Hill Descent Assist and traction control warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was turned off and restarted, an... Read more
Incident date: Feb 28, 2026
I have been in and out of the shop since May of 2025 I have a paper trail of all dates and events including the times I did go in for a recall the times I was changed whe I should have never been charged , bout 3 or 4 times . I’m on the interstate and I’m going like 74/75/76 and my speed drops on me to like a 10-15 and I try to move as quickly as possible because everyyyyy time that has happen... Read more
Incident date: Mar 3, 2026
When at proceeding from a stop or a "rolling stop", the vehicle has delayed throttle response or lag. Causes big problem when trying to get into traffic. This has been ever since I have owned this vehicle.
Incident date: Mar 5, 2026
My 2019 Mazda CX-5 started to smoke from the engine and I could smell oil burning. My car was due for an oil change so I brough it to a mechanic. After a diagnostic, they determined that there was a major oil leak and that the cylinder head was cracked and suggested I take it to the dealership. I did and they confirmed that there was a cracked cylinder head causing the massive oil leak. The techni... Read more
Incident date: Aug 1, 2025
My VIN indicates the 2.5L non-turbo SKYACTIV engine. Many 2019 CX-5 Touring models with this engine used cylinder deactivation, which is the version that has had some cylinder head cracking complaints. The engine type has documented failures my mileage (96k) is not extremely high for an engine The repair cost is very high ($5,500+) Mazda is refusing to help me out of goodwill assistance and ive on... Read more
Incident date: Feb 12, 2026
OnStar Telematics module is defective and keeps draining the battery causing the need for multiple jump starts. The problem has been confirmed by Don Hewlett Chevrolet Buick on March 5th, 2026 and was told that the part is on backorder and that there is no ETA.
Incident date: Feb 20, 2026
The Active Grille Shutter (AGS) system on my vehicle suffered an internal mechanical failure (fault codes 138206 and 138224). These shutters are a critical part of the engine cooling system. Failure of the AGS to operate correctly leads to immediate engine overheating risks, potential sudden loss of power (Limp Mode) in high-speed traffic, and thermal damage to engine components, posing a severe s... Read more
Incident date: Feb 18, 2026
2016 Kia Optima engine locked up, vehicle stalled on interstate,heard a rod bearing sound, left me in limp mode trying to get out the way of 18 wheelers traveling behind me. Towed into Kia dealership which confirmed the engine locked up which has a recall #PI1802B KSDS, but denied to cover it because I didn't have this recall done. I also called Kia Customer Service, they denied me too and just ga... Read more
Incident date: Mar 5, 2026
The contact owns a 2020 Toyota Supra. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle with the Push-to-Start button, the vehicle hesitated while starting. A message that the engine was overheating was displayed. The contact stated that the vehicle was idling in Low Power Mode while at a stoplight, and the vehicle hesitated while accelerating with the accelerator pedal depressed. The ... Read more
INTERNATIONAL
MV
(2025) - ENGINE
Mar 5, 2026
Incident date: Jul 1, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Mazda CX-9. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle shuddered abnormally. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the lower control arm needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the contact had not received documentation of the repair. Th... Read more
Incident date: Mar 5, 2026
When making a right turn from a complete stop, the vehicle intermittently exhibits noticeable hesitation and reduced acceleration compared to normal straight-line launches. This has occurred approximately 5–6 times. The delay in power delivery creates an unsafe condition when merging from on-ramps into higher-speed traffic, as the vehicle does not accelerate as expected. This mismatch between e... Read more
Incident date: Feb 2, 2026
On February 28, 2026, while preparing to leave our home with our two children in the vehicle, we experienced a critical vehicle malfunction. Upon attempting to start the car, all dashboard warning lights illuminated, including transmission error, “service needed,” and “automatic emergency braking system needs service.” The battery warning light was also on. The vehicle would not start init... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Feb 13, 2026
The vehicle experienced recurring electrical system failures beginning in December 2023. The vehicle intermittently would not start and on several occasions lost power unexpectedly. The vehicle was taken multiple times to an authorized Ford dealership for diagnosis while still under the manufacturer warranty. The dealership repeatedly reported that no issue could be identified despite the recurri... Read more
Incident date: Feb 28, 2026
Hi, was driving Vehicle GMC 1500 Denali, vehicle Lost power, all Lites lite up on Dashboard, Vehicle Just lost power and i swerved off Road and sideswiped a Plant Holder on side of Road, damaging side passenger Rear door. I bought the truck to GMC Rvc and they said vehicle Blew Cam shaft and Lifters. I explained to them I'm very concerned for others safety in these Vehicles with the 6.2 Engine. So... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Nov 30, 2025
We were traveling across country from Michigan to Arizona. We were 50 miles outside Tucson, AZ on [XXX]. Traveling 80 mph in a 75 mph zone, in passing lane and felt like car exploded and all airbags deployed and we came to a quick stop. No major injuries to either of us. One vehicle incident, did not collide with anything or hit any debris. It was a clear day, road conditions good, no noises, ligh... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Feb 26, 2026
ENGINE FAILURE DUE TO COOLANT INTRUSION TSB22-2229 DEALER SAID THIS TYPE OF FAILURE IS NOT COVERED BY MY EXTENDED WARRANTY AND FORD/LINCOLN CORP REFUSES TO PAY FOR THE REPAIR .
CADILLAC
ESCALADE IQL
(2026) - ENGINE
Mar 5, 2026
Incident date: Mar 3, 2026
Coolant engine intrusion. Improperly built engine. No mechanic will try to fix it based on history.
Incident date: Mar 4, 2026
I am submitting this complaint regarding Recall 78C (NHTSA Recall 25V-766) affecting my 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe. The recall states that engine block casting contamination may result in catastrophic engine failure, loss of propulsion, and possible engine fire. This recall has now been open for approximately 120 days without a remedy available. Stellantis has confirmed that engineers are still ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 1, 2026
2021 f250 with the 7.3v8. 120000 miles and lifter has failed. We believe that we caught it early enough to where we have no more issues other than this. After reading up I have noticed where there has been several other customers with same issue on this engine. I run several f350 pickups with our business and have been very pleased and bought this pickup to run around in and keep from driving the ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 4, 2026
The contact owns a 2004 Ford Expedition. The contact recently purchased the vehicle and stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission hesitated before upshifting with the accelerator pedal depressed. Additionally, while stopped at a traffic light, the vehicle rolled backwards when the accelerator pedal was depressed before responding as needed. There was no warning light illu... Read more
Incident date: Feb 17, 2026
Mechanical. Coolant Intrusion on my 2018 Ford Fusion SE 1.5L ecobuster
Incident date: Sep 27, 2025
1. The engine in my 2024 Jeep Wrangler 4xe is subject to manufacturer Recall 78C. According to the recall notice from Stellantis, the engine may be contaminated with sand from the casting process. This contamination can damage internal engine components and lead to catastrophic engine failure, loss of drive power, or a vehicle fire. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. 2. The rec... Read more
Incident date: Mar 5, 2026
In several separate unreplicable instances, the vehicle has turned off while driving, once on the highway, once on my street, once turning across heavy traffic, and others. I've almost died a couple times and I've taken it to the dealership several times, they have Not been able to find anything wrong with it and have been unable to replicate the issue. The engine has been replaced, and it was ha... Read more
LAND ROVER
RANGE ROVER
(2017) - ENGINE
Mar 5, 2026
Incident date: Mar 5, 2026
Incident Description: While driving at highway speeds, the oil cooling lines on my vehicle suffered a catastrophic failure, resulting in a total loss of engine oil within seconds. To ensure my safety and avoid being stranded in high-speed traffic, I proceeded less than a quarter-mile to reach the nearest exit. During the cooling process after the vehicle was stopped, the engine seized due to extre... Read more
Incident date: Mar 5, 2026
Engine failure, left rear cylinder knocking