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 42,929 complaints - component: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
FORD
EXPEDITION
(2018) - EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Apr 14, 2024
Incident date: Mar 31, 2024
Atlas has LED headlights - which should outlast the length of any car. First, the left low beam headlight failed. The following week the right low beam headlight failed. Took the car to VW. I was told that it would at least $5,000 to have operational headlights. I asked why LED headlights failed when they are designed to outlast any foreseeable length of any vehicle. VW refused to do any diagnos... Read more
HANKOOK
KINERGY GT
(9999) - EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Apr 12, 2024
Incident date: Apr 11, 2024
Tesla officially confirmed as I brought my car in a THIRD time that the repeated turn signal failure I was/am experiencing is now a known software issue. They looked at the timestamps and video I shared and saw that I had indeed applied pressure to the turn signal buttons to no avail/effect. Out of the three times I took the car in and shared timestamps for when this issue occurred this is the o... Read more
Incident date: Jan 13, 2024
2013 Chevy Malibu LS Headlight found shorted and was causing other electrical issues. I found out the 8pin plug one of its pins showing burnt and its male mate same You can see this issue is not just one owner incident and it’s a public complaint in this public forum link [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
FORD
ESCAPE HYBRID
(2021) - EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Apr 12, 2024
Incident date: Apr 12, 2024
I bought the truck around [XXX] from Barkau CDJR, Freeport IL. Two hours away from the dealer the truck went completely dead in traffic. A message appeared on the info screen that said roll down the drivers window and back up to reset the system when the truck finally restarted. Got home with it and called the dealer and let the know. In the next few weeks it happened a couple of more times. It ... Read more
Incident date: Feb 19, 2024
Left Turn Signal Button About 1 in 20 times, the left turn signal button on the steering wheel does not register a press. Pressing multiple times in multiple places on the left arrow icon makes no difference. If I click the right button and then the left it's fine. Or, if I try later, the left button will work again for a while This has happened many times over the past several weeks
Incident date: Mar 14, 2024
Push start/stop button was noting working properly (this had a recall and was replaced). However after it was repaired, I noticed the right-sided gas gauge with service repair numbers, milage etc is not working properly; the gas guage and service repair codes disappear and/or are scrambled. I took this to the Honda dealership in Coon Rapids, Minnesota, and was told by the service advisor (Drew Mec... Read more
Incident date: Apr 12, 2024
My Mini Cooper was rendered unsafe to drive as most of the exterior lights (i.e., headlights, brake lights, turn signals) stopped working--all at once. A local mechanic verified that the electrical short resulted from a severely corroded Footwell Control Module, which is the subject of the recall (Recall No. 23V-337, July 2023) for which a "Remedy is Unavailable." When contacted, a case management... Read more
Incident date: Jan 5, 2024
In March of 2024 I discovered that the passenger side front turn signal was not working. I assumed it was the bulb so I replaced it but the turn signal still failed to work. I took the vehicle to the Ford dealer where the vehicle was purchased new. Upon inspection, it was determined that a control module was the cause of the issue. I was informed that Ford no longer made the control module and the... Read more
Incident date: Feb 9, 2024
See attached document for complaint
Incident date: Mar 21, 2024
See attached document for complaint
Incident date: Apr 8, 2024
The lower portion of both headlights frosts on the inside of the lamp at temps below freezing. The frosting limits the projection of the beam at night. This problem must be corrected through a recall. GMC has a BULLETIN on this problem, but does not offer a fix.
Incident date: Mar 23, 2024
My Kia Sorento 2011 in November 2023 started having the instrument cluster warning lights flashing, abs warning light, tire pressure light and sometimes the check engine light. There is also a very strong burning or melting smell when the car is on. I was very scared to drive my car and have had to find ways to get to work when I received the notice from Kia that there was a recall SC284. About HE... Read more
Incident date: Apr 3, 2024
Air bag light will not go off and has not been inspected by dealership. I was out here checking for any recall. I am in Texas and can not get inspection/registration with this light on. Also I have front light out on driver side front and back, I have had to change bulbs several times have even replaced brake light assembly back in 2022 and light is burned out again as of right not 4/2024 dealer... Read more
Incident date: Apr 10, 2024
Fisker ocean issues - [ ] Air conditioner/heating vents broken - [ ] Key fob only works occasionally - [ ] Multiple warning lights on - [ ] Software not updated - [ ] Brakes feel faulty catching when applied - [ ] Car pulls to the left hard if stops quickly - [ ] Windshield 2-3 ft crack/no glass to order - [ ] Clicking noise from dash - [ ] No registration/license plates - [ ] Called cus... Read more
Incident date: Apr 3, 2024
The left low-beam headlight repeatedly fails, even with new bulbs. If it were just me, I'd assume a fluke, but there are lots of complaints about Prius V (and 3rd gen regular prius) lights, and they're all about the low beams.
Incident date: Mar 10, 2024
This vehicle was purchased used on [XXX]. The vehicle was test driven during the day time. The vehicle was also inspected by the dealer prior to purchase and a state inspection sticker was issued. After purchase the vehicle was driven at night, in the dark, upon which it was discovered a headlight was out. It was subsequently replaced by the dealer. However, after continued driving in the dar... Read more
Incident date: Aug 1, 2023
ALL OF THESE CAR HAVE A HEADLIGHT ISSUSE ALSO BREAKLIGHT
Incident date: Mar 22, 2024
Low beams randomly stopped working. All other lights work.
FORD
MAVERICK HYBRID
(2023) - EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Apr 9, 2024
Incident date: Jan 1, 2024
During night rainstorm, front and rear wipers, turn signals and high beams all failed. This was the result of a design defect that allows water from panoramic moonroof to drain into the floor where it compromises electrical connections and modules. In addition to potentially catastrophic safety component (wipers, high beams and turn signals) failures, the water damage compromised the seat belts,... Read more
Incident date: Nov 17, 2023
Front parking aid sensors do not alert me to objects in front of me when parking forward. I have to first backup two feet to get it to work, then it picks it up once I put in forward motion again. The dealer stated that they have no recalls for this problem even though my vehicle is in warranty.
Incident date: Apr 7, 2024
Sunday night 4/7/24, I was on my way to the emergency department with my 5 month old baby to be seen. 30min into my drive i came to a stop light when my truck completely shut off (BLACKOUT) No Power, NO LIGHTS not even my hazard would turn on, my car wouldn't go into park or allow me to press on my breaks it was like they were glued stuck. all my doors locked and I couldn't get them to open, not e... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Mar 28, 2024
The contact owns a 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 22V544000 (Exterior Light), 21V873000 (Air Bags), 23V413000 (Suspension) and 24V132000 (Suspension, Steering) however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 5, 2024
My vehicle has in cold weather no ability to clear and defrost the interior cabin of the vehicle As described in the recent recall, issued by JEEP, my Vin number was not included as part of This problem is obviously related, and the condition described in your campaign number is an exact match for the condition I experience during the winter months. While driving in Boston in heavy traffic, my ve... Read more
Incident date: Apr 5, 2024
The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Impreza. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V624000 (Exterior Lighting) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufact... Read more
Incident date: Oct 25, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Subaru Impreza. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V624000 (Exterior Lighting) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufa... Read more
Incident date: Mar 13, 2024
Autodim headlamps are too sensitive and not usable. They autodim for standard road signs and any object.
Incident date: Mar 25, 2024
The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Impreza. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V624000 (Exterior Lighting) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was not m... Read more
Incident date: Jan 1, 2024
A fogging/white residue has developed over time on the inside of the tail lights. As this continues to progress it would make the lights much dimmer and harder to see. ( I see several references to the same issue doing an online search for 2016 rav4 taillight fogging)
FORD
MAVERICK HYBRID
(2022) - EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Apr 4, 2024
Incident date: Apr 2, 2024
A repeating fault saying "Front right side marker light defective. See owner's manual" keeps popping up in the primary display with an accompanying bell sounding. The Long Beach Audi dealership said all lights were working correctly and failed to fully diagnose the problem in the five days the car was in their shop. This repeating nuisance fault is annoying and distracting to the point of being a ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 4, 2024
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Turn signal indicator has malfunctioned. When the left turn signal indicator is set, it will not reset after making a full left turn (90 degree). Also the left turn signal will not stop after putting the turn signal lever back into the middle position. The only way to disable to turn signal is to... Read more
FORD
MAVERICK HYBRID
(2022) - EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Apr 3, 2024
Incident date: Mar 30, 2024
I received a warning that my left front headlight was not working. I took the car to my dealer to have the light replaced. I was told that because this is an LCG assembly the entire assembly unit needed to be replaced and the cost would be $3,500.
Incident date: Dec 1, 2023
2015 Acura RDX Headlights have dramatically dimmed over time, to the point of jeopardizing safety of self, passengers and others: it's not discernible they're on unless there's no external lighting/street lamps. Problem potentially confirmed via excess reporting online for a range of RDX years inclusive of 2015. Also seeing a relevant, potentially related headlight recall from late 2014.
Incident date: Apr 3, 2024
The headlamp design of the 2024 Tesla Model Y creates a shadow (or shadows) that cannot be adjusted away. These shadows could be a contributing factor if an accident were to occur. Tesla Service has stated there is nothing more they can do regarding adjustment. Initially, there were two shadows. The user-friendly headlamp adjustment on the touchscreen allows only up-down adjustment after the syste... Read more
Incident date: Feb 6, 2024
Passenger side headlight, daytime running light portion, is flickering, approximately 1-2 times a minute. I only noticed this as I parked in a dark garage with my lights on, seeing the light flickering against the wall. There is no warning from my car telling me this is happening. This is a safety issue because headlights are a safety feature. If my headlight is going on and off, it will affect m... Read more
FORD
MAVERICK HYBRID
(2022) - EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Apr 3, 2024
Incident date: Feb 8, 2024
Only have had this vehicle about a month but almost every day I drive it during the day if it's even just partly cloudy, cloudy, or raining the autoheadlights just constantly flash on and off. Sensor clearly isn't working properly. If it's completely dark lights come on correctly and if it's very sunny they stay off but anything in between is just a constant flash. Not safe due to sight, but also ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 25, 2024
The right rear tail light housing harness melted due to an electrical issue. Wire tends to heat up too much. This caused my right rear tail light, right break light and right side turn signal not to function.
Incident date: Jan 8, 2024
LED headlight has been collecting condensation, presumed by mechanic to be from improper venting of the headlight. Possibly related to Honda technical service bulletin regarding hood positioning keeping headlights from venting properly. The chronic moisture caused the headlight to fail and stop working while driving at night, without warning. This caused a sudden impairment to visibility, creating... Read more
Incident date: Apr 2, 2023
A few years ago I began to notice the lack of visibility when I would drive at night. I had my headlight bulbs replaced thinking it was a simple maintenance issue. After spending the money the lights did not get any better. They have only gotten worse over the year and now its so bad when i drive its a hazard. In speaking to Acura they have stated that this is a known issue and its the enti... Read more
Incident date: Apr 1, 2024
The passenger side break light and signal stop working occasionally. I took it to a certified Audi service center, and they were able to fix the issue but reported that the central wire system that makes the break light and signal work are defective and that the issue will continue given that the cables may move every time I close and open and close my truck as the cables run through there. This i... Read more
Incident date: Jul 1, 2023
Brunswick Subaru refuses to do headlight recall. I was told there is no fix yet over 6 months ago. I called again 2 weeks ago and told the same thing. I called Subaru directly and was told there is a fix and that they would contact me in two days. They still have not gotten me information on how to resolve recall 22v624000
Incident date: Mar 20, 2024
The contact owns a 2022 BMW R 18. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V884000 (Exterior Lighting) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that pa... Read more
Incident date: Mar 29, 2024
Low beam headlights are extremely/dangerously low even if the lights are brand new. In my opinion it's extremely dangerous to drive with only my high beams on but thats the only way I can see at night theres no confidence in relying on my low beams.
Incident date: Apr 1, 2024
I recently notice that I had very little light on the low beam of my headlights. Cannot see the road unless on high beam. Dealership said it is a problem that they have had with the SRX and have replaced so many 'headlight assembly's' that they now carry them in stock. Since you can't drive with the high beams on in traffic I feel this is a failure of the model and can only be fixed by replaceme... Read more
Incident date: Mar 21, 2024
The right side mark light failed. There was a recall for this problem (Audi Recall Campaign 97CB, NHTSA campaign ID 16V642000) but it did not include my car. It seems many Audi owners have this issue.
Incident date: Apr 2, 2024
ON THE FREEWAY GOING ABOUT 45 MPH TRIED TO SPEED UP AND SWITCH LANES AS I PRESSED THE GAS YOU CAN HEAR THE ACCERATION BUT THE CAR DIDNT INCREASE IN SPEED THE WHOLE DASHBOARD WENT BLANK (BLACK). CAR WAS UNRESPONSIVE. ITS VERY DANGEROUS THAT THE CAR FALFUCTIONS IN CRITICAL CONDITIONS LIKE BEING ON THE FREEWAY. YES I HAVE TOOKEN IT TO HYUNDAI AND THEY NEVER FIND ANYTHING WRONG. ALSO AT TIMES THE CAR ... Read more
Incident date: Jan 15, 2024
Center tail light has completely failed. it is still broken at the time of reporting. a majority of the rear lighting no longer works. I have not taken it to a dealership, but it is clearly not working. there is significant water build up in the tail light which is apparently a known issue. no inspection has been done. no warnings or messages. Water has been in the tail light for about 3 months. L... Read more
Incident date: Apr 2, 2024
I am registering this complaint because the manufacturer has failed to remedy this safety hazard in a reasonable amount of time.. During night driving and while driving in the rain worn road markings are most difficult to see. Are you able to expedite the repair process? [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Incident date: Feb 2, 2023
Night driving safety risk due to no ambient lighting and unable to locate door controls,usb connection,heating controls,cup holder, while driving. Interior is in total darkness throughout night driving! If I need to find any connections I am unable and when I was driving I had to look away from traffic and avoided losing control of my vehicle!! Ford says this 2022 Escape doesn’t have ambient li... Read more
Incident date: Aug 7, 2023
The headlights are very dim. Provides limited viewing at night. I see this is a well known issue with similar models, but not this one. I did call for repair and it is extremely expensive for what I feel should be a safety recall. This unfortunately will impact but future decisions and thoughts about the Acura. I love everything else about my experience with this car, but this major safety issue n... Read more
Incident date: Feb 6, 2024
When snowing the headlights freeze over. Have to stop on the side. Of the road and clean them off. They do not get hot enough to melt snow to be able to drive safe at night.