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 78,884 complaints - component: SERVICE BRAKES
Incident date: Apr 16, 2024
The contact owns a 2023 Audi Q7. The contact stated that the MIL warning light was illuminated. There was a yellow warning light illuminated with a message to take the vehicle to the dealer displayed. While the contact’s wife was driving at an undisclosed speed and approaching an intersection, the yellow warning light turned red. The contact stated that the vehicle suddenly independently skidded... Read more
Incident date: Dec 13, 2024
At just a little over 58k miles the vehicle started making metal noises while driving. The vehicle will jump into neutral while driving and this was very scary! There are no warning lights or any error codes. This was checked and confirmed by a LandRover dealership in Roanoke- no fault codes. I didnt drive for another few months. Next drive was from VA to KY and the vehicle did the same thing on t... Read more
Incident date: Dec 16, 2024
While driving through a parking lot on [XXX], leaves blew in front of car and it automatically came to an abrupt stop. While driving on [XXX] on [XXX] at approximately 70 MPH, without any encroaching vehicles and with no road obstructions, the automatic emergency braking temporarily engaged on 2 occasions, indicator on dash indicated that it occurred, and I felt the wheels lock up for a short tim... Read more
Incident date: Dec 16, 2024
The contact owns a 2012 Honda Pilot. The contact stated during the past 3 seasons of winter, the vehicle would fail to come to a stop while depressing the brake pedal. No warning lights illuminated. The failure would occur during winter cold climate temperatures. The vehicle was previously taken to a local independent mechanic where both the front brake pads and rotors were replaced. The vehicle w... Read more
Incident date: Jul 2, 2024
Stopping at a stop light, after coming to a complete stop, vehicle will want to slowly creep forward and you need to press a little harder on the brake pedal. If you don't pay attention, you will creep into the vehicle in front of you. I am in the transmission TSB range.
Incident date: Dec 15, 2024
Driving at the speed limit 65-70 miles ph my truck started to slow in speed the tire sensor came on then the truck began to smoke and the brakes locked up at a high speed, lucky for me there was no one behind me. I was able to limp to a safe spot and park the truck would not MOVE at all..After an hour I tried to move it again it would not go into drive. Had to tow it to the dealership..$$$$ late... Read more
Incident date: Dec 13, 2024
Anti lock Brake Fault and disabled Hill Start assist failure Collision waring system failure All of these occurred while driving. Luckily I was able to move the vehicle of the road and was able to avoid any accidents.
Incident date: Aug 17, 2023
HCU unit intermittently come On and off. Has the potential for loss of traction control and braking.
Incident date: Aug 1, 2024
defect includes issues with the electronic stability control (ESC) system and the electronic-brake control module (EBCM). These issues can cause the driveline protection system to activate unexpectedly. when i initiate gas after a stop the "stabilitrak" alarms and sometimes emergency brake initiates. it is available for inspection upon request. your safety is at risk from alarm sounding repeate... Read more
Incident date: Apr 1, 2024
Car is inoperable due to the brake issue and airbag issue. Lincoln refuses to assist with getting it towed or working with the dealership. They will say that they do these things or are trying to help but they do not. This has been going on for 5 years. Dealerships will not fix the vehicle because the vehicle is too old they are telling me. The car is sitting and cannot be driven and nobody will ... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Jan 15, 2023
I was driving on the highway when the touchscreen lit up with multiple error messages including: - Steering assist reduced (Steering may require increased effort) - Traction control disabled (Drive with caution) - Stability control disabled (Drive with caution) - Parking brake functions degraded (Parking brake may not apply or release) - Lane Departure Avoidance features unavailable (Features may... Read more
Incident date: Nov 16, 2024
1. Complete Brake Failure. No warning lights came on. There is no emergency warning system for Brake Failure. This could have been catastrophic. This could have turned deadly if we were driving on the highway with no warnings Dec 15, 2024 I drove the truck during the day on the highway and made various stops for Christmas Shopping. I went for dinner with my Family. After dinner climbed into the... Read more
Incident date: Dec 13, 2024
While coming to a stop, the truck died and immediately set the emergency brakes. I was stopped about 300ft. from stop sign with cars stopped behind me. With the cars behind me honking, I waved them around. Released the brake and restarted the truck. Took the truck to the dealer and they could not reproduce the incident, and it threw no codes. This could be a huge safety concern if it were to ha... Read more
CHEVROLET
SILVERADO 1500
(2014) - SERVICE BRAKES
Dec 16, 2024
Incident date: Dec 12, 2024
The brake booster and pump are a known issue for all CT200 models 2011-2013. The brakes do not work as intended which is a safety issue. The attached file is acknowledgement by Lexus that this is an issue. Though they are not covering the problem
Incident date: Dec 13, 2024
The braking system of my 2024 BMW X6 (VIN: [XXX] ) is critically malfunctioning due to the unresolved safety recall 24V-104. The Integrated Brake System has failed, resulting in warning lamps and error messages on the dashboard. This has also caused essential safety systems, such as Adaptive Cruise Control and Automatic Emergency Braking, to stop functioning entirely. This situation is unacceptab... Read more
Incident date: Dec 15, 2024
I own a Toyota Highlander 2018 LE. I have been servicing it regularly at authorized Toyota delaership service centers. I have around 28000 miles on it. While trying to start the car this morning, the car wouldn't start, the brake feels hard and won't depress, and the dashboard displays the message" Braking Power Low STOP in a Safe Place See Owner's Manual"
Incident date: Nov 23, 2024
My car slams on the brakes consistently at green lights when FSD is activated. This is version 12.5.4.2 of FSD. Tesla is not responding to my inquiries.
Incident date: Dec 15, 2024
On two separate occasions, the Honda CR-V brakes automatically engaged very abruptly for no reason. The dealership indicated that it is a known problem and that there is nothing that can be done to disengage the Automatic Emergency Braking. The vehicle has NOT been inspected. No warning or message was evident prior to, during or immediately after the incidents.
Incident date: Nov 1, 2024
My traction control light, ABS sensor light and brake indicator dash are on. My cruise control does not work and sometimes the car will not start. I'm afraid to drive it. Thinking that it may turn off while driving it. My mechanic says that it is the ABS Control Module. There is a recall for this part, but not for my vin number. A number of Dodge owners I know are having this same issue.
Incident date: Jun 15, 2022
Complete power/ignition failure resulting in death of driver on [XXX] while driving at night in the rain in a 2017 Nissan Frontier Pickup 4 door. The TDPS in McKinney, TX is pulling the black box for testing. 2 weeks before the accident the same vehicle (2017 Nissan Frontier pickup) 4 door lost complete power/braking/ignition failure on the same road [XXX] in Princeton, TX The vehicle was pushed o... Read more
Crash
1 deaths
Incident date: Dec 6, 2024
I purchased my 2023 Santa Fe brand new off the show room floor in Jan 2024. After about 6k miles when braking on the highway the entire vehicle would shudder and shake including the steering wheel. I took it into the dealership where I was informed this is a KNOWN ISSUE with this year/make/model with the rotors. They claimed they would turn the rotors but if the issue persists they would replace t... Read more
Incident date: Jul 1, 2024
Only in reverse, the brakes make a foghorn noise. I’m aware that other 2022 bronco sports were covered under a recall for this exact issue, but mine has not. I’m concerned about the safety and stoppage time for my car. This is not a normal squeal or grinding of worn brake pads.
Incident date: Dec 14, 2024
I purchased this car used in early 2024. Shortly after buying it, the brakes began squeaking while backing out of the garage in the morning. This is the only time day this occurs. It has been a constant complaint since. I took it to Suburban Cadillac in Troy, Michigan where I purchased the car. They said it is a characteristic of the car and GM is aware of it. Their only suggestion was to sp... Read more
GMC
SIERRA 1500
(2015) - SERVICE BRAKES
Dec 15, 2024
Incident date: Dec 11, 2024
Service Antilock Brake System and Service Electronic Braking System warning lights keep coming on. Truck intermittently tries to stop.
Incident date: Dec 15, 2024
After about 10,000 miles, we started getting a loud squeal noise in the front brake area when taking off from a stop. We have taken the vehicle to the dealership and also spoke to the service department several times. We keep getting told that it is a common noise with the Taos and there is nothing wrong or no fix. There is no way a brand-new vehicle should be making this noise.
Incident date: Dec 14, 2024
Vehicle makes load screeching and moaning sounds whenever the car is in reverse -noticed the day after purchase. Was told in June “parts are on back order”. - still no fix
VOLKSWAGEN
ID.4
(2023) - SERVICE BRAKES
Dec 14, 2024
Incident date: Nov 20, 2024
On the morning of December 11th, 2024, the brake system warning light (ABS, yellow) illuminated on the dashboard along with the red BRAKE indicator and the yellow Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system light. I consulted a mechanic who performed a computer diagnostic and informed me that the ABS module booster had failed. He said that will order the part to change it but meanwhile he advised me to... Read more
Crash
1 injured
FORD
MAVERICK HYBRID
(2024) - SERVICE BRAKES
Dec 14, 2024
Incident date: Dec 14, 2024
"Secure vehicle against rolling" warning light comes on even while driving. It is a $10 spring but the dealer wants $3500+ to replace it. The entire center section and console needs to be taken apart just to get to the spring. Countless reports of this ... BMW is very casual about the concern and adamant on ignoring customer complaints ,but this is a serious safty issue involving the emergency br... Read more
CHEVROLET
SILVERADO 1500
(2019) - SERVICE BRAKES
Dec 14, 2024
Incident date: Nov 7, 2024
FM radio Black screen Black screen replacement kia soul
GMC
SIERRA 1500
(2018) - SERVICE BRAKES
Dec 14, 2024
Incident date: Dec 11, 2024
It is not clear which brake component is failing. It seems to be either the master cylinder or the ABS control module, but nothing seems to be conclusive. The failure alters the power of and force required to apply the rear brakes, changing the riding characteristics of the motorcycle that could lead to serious injury or miscalculations in application of both front a rear brakes to minimize stoppi... Read more
Incident date: Nov 2, 2024
Vehicle is flashing service electronic braking system/Traction controland break light flashing. Seem the issue is related to other year models with the HCU/brake motor recalls that have been issued. I'm looking at having to spend over $3k just to have the unit replaced at a dealership. I don't feel safe while driving my truck as the other day when in the rain it started driving crazy when I lost t... Read more
Incident date: Dec 13, 2024
Apparently there is a known defect on the brake actuator/master cylinder/booster on the 2014 Prius that would have been addressed if the car had been driven for less than 10 years or 150,000 miles. We purchased our car in April 2014 and the part just failed yesterday at only 126,000 miles. We understand that there is a pending class action suit (or perhaps one that was settled) but do not know h... Read more
Incident date: Dec 14, 2024
Breaks and/or drive train. It is available for inspection. 1) Breaks sink causing slowed break time and decreased breaking ability. If the breaks are "pumped", more often than not, they will come back up to full pedal. However, in an emergency breaking situation, there is not time to "pump" the breaks. I was nearly in an accident recently when the break pedal would not stop the truck in time, due ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 14, 2024
Brake Actuator Valve Wear all lights relating to brakes are on, Dec. 12th 2024. The warranty for this expensive fix ended March, 2024 or 150k miles, there are only 106k miles on the vehicle. Something that is such a safety hazard SHOULD not have a date. We are experiencing unexpected loss of brake power while driving, accompanied by multiple dashboard warning lights, so we are unable to driv... Read more
Incident date: Dec 14, 2024
The braking system malfunctioned during Winter and snowy road conditions. Several instances happened during the month of December 2023 and 2024. Latest were December 10 and 13, 2024. The brake pad was soft when depressed that the car accelerated instead of stopping.
Incident date: Nov 6, 2024
The braking system malfunctioned during Winter and snowy road conditions. Several instances happened during the month of December 2023 and 2024. Latest were December 10 and 13, 2024. The brake pad was soft when depressed that the car accelerated instead of stopping.
Incident date: Dec 2, 2024
The emergency brake often gets stuck, especially on cold days. I have to repeatedly push and release it or manually adjust it by pushing behind the brake to return it to the release position. This problem starts on 28000 Mile on this car
Incident date: Jul 20, 2020
I’ve been having issues with the front end since I purchased the vehicle. The dealership had not diagnosed this issue yet in 3 years. It had caused my vehicle to be in the shop continuously, my front driver side tire is worn out. I had to replace all brakes and rotors after 2 years, numerous sensor issues, radiator loses fluid as well as software issues.
Incident date: Dec 6, 2024
I am filing this complaint regarding the unresolved safety recall for the Integrated Brake System (IBS) on my 2023 BMW X1. The recall, issued in February 2024, addresses critical safety issues, including the potential loss of power brake assist, Antilock Brake System (ABS) failure, and compromised Dynamic Stability Control (DSC). These defects increase the risk of accidents, particularly in emerge... Read more
CHEVROLET
SILVERADO 1500
(2019) - SERVICE BRAKES
Dec 13, 2024
Incident date: Apr 15, 2024
The incident occurred at a stop sign where I was waiting behind one other vehicle. The vehicle ahead of me accelerated from the stop sign to turn into traffic, but abruptly slammed on their brakes. I had began accelerating up to the stop sign and was unable to stop before impacting the car in front of me. As soon as I saw the vehicle was braking, I immediately slammed on the brake pedal. Braking d... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Dec 6, 2024
While I was driving the rear brakes started to a bite stiff .. when I went to stop I had to apply more pressure then usually.. i felt like the abs started and all of of sudden the brake lever stiffened up and i couldn't press the brakes any longer . I lost my rear brakes .. I'm glad I had my front brakes and I was able to get home driving slowly. But the rear brakes are locked up . I looked up m... Read more
Incident date: Nov 15, 2024
I received notice of a safety recall concerning the brake/ anti-skid control module. This notice said there was a possibility of complete failure that could result in serious injury or death. I contacted my local dealer and was told the recall wouldn't start until the first quarter of 2025. I told them my dash warning lights were already on. Their advice was to park my vehicle and obtain other tra... Read more
GREENPOWER
EV STAR BUS
(2019) - SERVICE BRAKES
Dec 13, 2024
Incident date: Dec 6, 2024
I am reporting that there are three things that needs to be addressed on the 2014 Honda Accord. 1. The drivers side seat, deflates and it consistantly has to be pumped back up while driving. 2. I've had to purchase (4) new car batteries for this 2014 Honda Accord that I own since I purchased it in 2016. That's unacceptable especially when there has been a recalled by Honda, on the 2016, for a ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 1, 2020
3/25/2023 784 miles and 12 days after purchasing the vehicle The throttle got stuck, cruise was on but not activated, was going 100mgh, hit the brakes, slowed the speed, every time I took my foot off the brake, I was doing 90-100mph. I hit the brakes 5-7 times to try to cancel the cruise even though it was was set. It said "Activate" so it was not on. Then after hitting the brakes repeatedly, I h... Read more
Incident date: Dec 2, 2024
New brake booster, new brakes put on 6 months ago, ABS now has problems. Car starts to skid when braking, only 1 brake works, car only has about 140,000 miles on it. When on the freeway at about 60-65 mph, car will start to lose power and shake until you hit the brakes really hard 2 or 3 times, no accident yet but if not fixed, it will happen. Brake pedal goes down to the floor will sitting at ... Read more
VOLKSWAGEN
PASSAT
(2013) - SERVICE BRAKES
Dec 13, 2024
Incident date: Dec 10, 2024
The contact owns a 2012 Ford Edge. The contact stated that while depressing the brake pedal, the brake pedal went to the floorboard causing the braking distance to become extended. The vehicle was diagnosed by a certified mechanic who determined that the brake booster had failed and needed to be replaced. The braked booster was replaced. While driving approximately 10 MPH in the snow, the contact ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 6, 2024
1. The 2019 Transit Connect Wagon transmission would buck or jerk when removing my foot from the accelerator when going 60 mph or more. The brake was NOT press at the time of the jerk. 2. When entering the Ford Service Center for the transmission check appointment, the left front brake seized. There was an odor of burning brake pads. 3. After the brake module was replaced and the service cente... Read more
Incident date: Dec 11, 2024
I pulled out onto Southside Blvd. My brakes failed, my driver’s front of the car hit a Waste Management garbage truck right back tire and cut the sidewall of the tire. The engine was racing, the truck pulled off the road, and I had sudden unintended acceleration. I immediately turned into a strip center and my car was racing through the strip center, the brakes were not working, the car controls... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Dec 13, 2024
When the vehicle is in park and you try to turn it off with the start/stop button an on dash error code of ‘Shift to Park’ appears even though the vehicle is clearly in park. You are not able to turn the vehicle off. This currently is forcing me to restart the engine, put my car in reverse, shift back in drive, try re-parking and turning it off again, repeating the process until it eventually ... Read more
FORD
EXPEDITION
(2020) - SERVICE BRAKES
Dec 13, 2024
Incident date: Dec 12, 2024
A prevalent issue observed in the Lexus CT200h and Toyota Prius V models is the internal leakage of brake accumulators, as they utilize identical part numbers. Consequently, the actuator emits a buzzing sound intermittently as it attempts to maintain the necessary gas pressure within the braking system, ultimately failing due to the leak. Numerous articles addressing this concern are available onl... Read more