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 78,884 complaints - component: SERVICE BRAKES

Incident date: Jul 3, 2026

Sudden loss of braking power on June 29, 2026, with sudden brake warnings. We had the same error after taking delivery of the vehicle in September 2025. The dealership repaired the vehicle (brake sensor). We have another dealer appointment on July 6, 2026 to repair this again. Very concerning from a safety perspective that this is occurring again.

Incident date: Jul 5, 2026

On Sunday July 5th at approximately 4:10pm The vehicle experienced an unexpected Pre-Collision Braking activation at approximately 25 mph. A vehicle was approximately 40 feet ahead and there was no imminent collision. The vehicle automatically applied the brakes aggressively.

Incident date: Jun 29, 2026

Component or System Failed: The critical safety component that failed—and was deliberately tampered with—is the ABS/DSC (Anti-lock Braking System / Dynamic Stability Control) module. The compromised component is currently on the vehicle and is readily available for physical inspection upon request. How Safety Was Put at Risk: My safety and the safety of the public were severely compromised bec... Read more

Incident date: Mar 4, 2026

Before the recall, I was driving my vehicle and the brakes and the power steering locked up. The vehicle felt like it was trying to drive with the emergency brake on. After this happened, I took the vehicle to Haley Jeep Jam, Richmond, VA, and they said they couldn't determine anything was wrong, but replaced the brake pads. Shortly after this visit to the service department, the recall appeared. ... Read more

Incident date: Dec 16, 2024

My wife and I were Driving when I tried to stop and the brakes failed. Within seconds the vehicle caught fire in the engine compartment. I had to slam the transmission into park cause the doors would not open. When my wife tried to escape out the passenger side the flames came into the cabin towards her. I then opened my door and then had to help my wife escape out the driver's side door. Within m... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Jun 23, 2026

VIN: [XXX]. 2019 Chevy Colorado, ~115,000 mi. FAILED COMPONENT: Vacuum pump failed internally; debris damaged the exhaust camshaft. Pump is cam-driven with no shear pin, so seizure cuts brake assist AND sends metal debris into the engine. Truck/parts are at Chapman Chevrolet, Tempe AZ, available for inspection. SAFETY RISK: On XXX, brake pedal suddenly lost assist while my son merged onto XXX fr... Read more

Incident date: Jul 2, 2026

am reporting a recurring rear brake issue with my vehicle. The rear brake pads and rotors have required replacement approximately every 20,000 miles, which appears abnormal given that the front brake pads have never required replacement and are still measuring approximately 8 mm. The rear brakes have worn prematurely and unevenly compared with the front brakes despite normal driving conditions. I... Read more

Incident date: Jun 16, 2026

I recently had the C2200 Code for ABS module failure. The fact there are no current parts available and there has been a waiting list for years is extremely troubling. I'm not sure how having a faulty ABS system is not an issue that warrants an investigation. There are a lot of Chrysler/Jeep vehicles on the road that are having to be driven in an unsafeanner due to not being able to repair the dam... Read more

Incident date: Dec 20, 2023

The ABS Module is non operative and has been on back order for over 3 years from the Dealership.

Incident date: Sep 17, 2025

Vehicle was traveling straight approximately 70–80 mph in very light drizzle. No warning lights or messages before the event. Vehicle suddenly entered an uncontrolled spin multiple times. During the spin, I heard a grinding noise. After stopping, brake/parking brake system warnings appeared on the dash, video after the event recorded.

1 injured

Incident date: Jun 8, 2026

The vehicle is able to be shifted out of park when no keys are in the ignition. My grandson was in the front seat while the vehicle was being cleaned and he shifted the car into reverse and almost rolled into the street. No keys were anywhere inside the vehicle.

Incident date: Jul 3, 2026

Abs and traction light come on and off causing the ding on the dash to happen more than a seatbelt warning. Loss of traction control in rain. Loss of abs while towing. Its a safety concern while driving and an annoyance. How is there no fix yet after over 2 years.

Incident date: Jul 3, 2026

The rear brake system on my 2020 Triumph Rocket 3 GT has failed repeatedly since purchase. After 2–3 rides, the rear brake progressively fades and then loses all braking force. The defect has been reproduced six times over multiple years and is documented in six repair orders. The motorcycle is available for inspection. The safety risk is loss of rear braking while riding. The motorcycle has be... Read more

Incident date: Jun 27, 2026

My dealership has reground the rotors on my car twice. Now with less than 40,000 mileson the car the brakes need ground again. The issue with the brakes is it causes the front end of the car to shake when the brakes are applied. This could lead to loss of control on down hill stops in slippery conditions.

Incident date: Jul 2, 2026

The vehicle has a documented, active transmission failure code P0720 relating to Recall 26S28 (NHTSA Campaign 26V237). Per pages 3 and 4 of Ford's official Part 573 Safety Recall Report, dealers are explicitly required to bypass the software wait and replace the physical lead frame hardware if a vehicle exhibits this code prior to the software's release. The local franchise dealership (McCombs For... Read more

Incident date: Apr 24, 2026

While driving down a busy neighborhood street 2 lanes with cars on both sides making it a 1 lane road pulled over to the side a little to let cars pass. All of a sudden ALL electrical and engine stopped and turned off. Only thing that was powered was instrument cluster with multiple warnings like SRS Malfunction, Steering Malfunction, SOS Inoperative, Parking Brake and more. We believe the car ha... Read more

Incident date: Jul 3, 2026

Issue with the trailer brake system keeps coming up on my dash. I know a lot of other people have had the same issue keeps dinging will not stop causes me to get distracted while driving. Unable to use other features because of this distraction and safety issue. The safety issue needs to be fixed this is an effective product with so many people having an issue you need to do a recall. I did let Gr... Read more

Incident date: Jun 27, 2026

While attempting to park in my driveway, the vehicle experienced a complete loss of braking. The brake pedal did not stop the vehicle, and pressing the electronic parking brake switch had no effect. The vehicle continued forward and crashed through my closed garage door. The only reason it stopped was because it struck another vehicle parked inside my garage. That impact pushed the parked vehicle ... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Jan 23, 2026

While driving the ABS system failure warning along with 2 other system warnings come on and brakes fall to the floor. My Ford expedition is experiencing the same catastrophic electronic brake booster failure as recall 25S77. The dealer updated the software and the problem continued. Its back at the dealership after happening an additional 4 time and I'm being told it $2500 to replace the electroni... Read more

Incident date: Mar 31, 2026

I was driving back home and stopped at a red light. When the light turned green I started driving, but my car was jerking a little too much. I pulled over and turned my car off. When I cut my car back on my brake became very hard to the point I had to push down extra hard to stop my car. I started back driving home once I realized my car needs to be turned completely off and sit. While I'm driving... Read more

Incident date: Jul 2, 2026

As I was coming to a stop at light my brakes became very difficult to push the pedal down to stop. It took everything in me to get the vehicle to stop before entering the intersection and oncoming traffic. I was able to get the vehicle parked safely in a nearby parking lot but then the engine wouldn't start it just kept trying to turn over. The brake assist error popped up, and then the check engi... Read more

Incident date: Apr 14, 2026

Brake booster failure in less than two years of ownership. It seems to be an issue with A LOT of these models. Very unsafe to have any brake failure

Incident date: Jul 3, 2025

•12,000 Miles: Front rotors required complete replacement. •21,000 Miles: Front rotors failed and required replacement a second time. •28,000 Miles: Front seat cushion required repair due to material separation. •34,000 Miles: Front rotors failed and required replacement a third time. •51,000 Miles: Front rotors failed and required replacement a fourth time. •51,000 Miles: Complete tra... Read more

Incident date: Oct 20, 2025

Abs module failed

Incident date: Jun 13, 2026

The traction control, abs, and emergency brake light came on. We checked and the code produced was C1391. There’s a humming noise every 10 or so seconds when idle. The humming noise is also present when braking. We did some research and this appears to be an issue with Toyota Prius. We called the dealership and were informed that this was not a known issue. Thank you.

Incident date: Jun 30, 2026

My 2012 Toyota Prius is experiencing brake actuator pump failure, presenting diagnostic trouble codes C1253 (brake actuator pump motor stuck/locked) and C1256 (brake actuator pump motor overcurrent). These codes trigger ABS, brake, and VSC warning lights and disable ABS and stability control. Toyota previously acknowledged this exact defect under Customer Support Program ZJB, which covered 2010-20... Read more

Incident date: Feb 10, 2026

I was backing into my garage and the rear collision sensor beeped. I opened the door and took one foot out of car and since the driveway is up a hill, the car started rolling forward. I must of taken pressure off the brake. I tried to stop the car but was unable. The forward collision sensor did go off and my car hit my back neighbor fence and gas supply line. Thank goodness there was no one behin... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Jul 2, 2026

Purchased vehicle from a used car dealership. Had it a few months before brake pedal started losing pressure and going to floor. Had master cylinder replaced. A few months later, brake light started coming on when accelerating. New master cylinder had leaked into brake booster. Had master cylinder replaced along with brake booster. A few weeks later and brake pedal is losing pressure again

Incident date: Jul 1, 2026

Most of the dash lights are on scan code U1412. Says traction control not working, ABS not working, speedometer not working, and airbags not working. The Power Control Module (PCM) needs replaced. A known issue with the Jeep Wrangler JKs. No one stocks the parts and used ones are way over priced. How can Jeep not have to replace it or at least stock a replacement part that has the issues resolved?

Incident date: Jun 18, 2026

I own a 2019 Jeep Compass with approximately 72,000 miles. For the past two years, I have experienced intermittent electrical and brake system failures that have become more frequent and severe despite multiple repair attempts. While driving, especially when turning, braking, or driving over potholes or uneven roads, the vehicle suddenly displays multiple warning lights, including ABS, traction c... Read more

Incident date: Jul 1, 2026

6/16/26 on the 101 freeway for over an hour at 65 to 70mph. Emergency braking system engaged and warning appeared. Disappeared after about 3-5 seconds. June 30, 2026, again after driving for over an hour. No cars near, happens multiple times at speed

Incident date: Jul 1, 2026

Component that failed: brakes. I was pulling into a parking spot at low speed and the brake pedal was suddenly extremely difficult to depress, almost impossible. It felt as if a brick were under the pedal but there was no obstruction. I was able to stop only because I was already going so slow. Safety of myself and others was at risk because I was almost unable to stop the vehicle. If I had been g... Read more

Incident date: May 13, 2026

My vehicle experienced the exact component failure described in NHTSA Recall 24V-896 (FCA Campaign C4B), but my VIN is currently excluded due to the manufacturing date window." My truck's build date was 01/17. The following warning lights appeared (ABS, Traction Control/ESC) and I lost auxiliary cruise control. An independent shop diagnosed the failed Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU) / ABS pump motor ... Read more

Incident date: May 7, 2026

The contact owns a 2017 Ram 1500. The contact stated that the ABS, ESC, and cruise control warning lights were illuminated and became inoperable. While depressing the brake pedal, the braking distance became extended. The failure made the vehicle difficult and unsafe to drive in inclement weather. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the hydra... Read more

Incident date: Jan 2, 2026

The electronic gear selector on my 2020 Ram 1500 intermittently displays a "Shift to Park" warning while the vehicle is in motion, specifically during downshifting or braking. Each occurrence is accompanied by a physical jerk or lurch, consistent with the vehicle momentarily engaging an unintended gear. The warning clears without driver input. These events occur during active deceleration and repr... Read more

Incident date: Jun 30, 2026

My vehicle is a 2012 Kia Forte EX. The vehicle experienced a corrosion-related brake line failure that affected braking performance and created a safety concern. The brake pedal became soft/sank, and the vehicle had unsafe braking behavior, requiring repair at a Kia dealership. The failed component was a brake line, which is a safety-critical part of the braking system. The repair was completed a... Read more

Incident date: Jul 2, 2026

The vacuum pump failed and my brakes went out pedal became extremely hard to push. I was driving on the highway at the time and was lucky I had a shoulder to slow down on and finally stop. I took the car to my usually mechanic who confirmed the vacuum pump failure but referred me to the Chevy dealer because this is a known issue. The dealer confirmed the pump had blown apart( their words to me) a... Read more

Incident date: Jul 2, 2026

Almost crashed a few times because of the automatic breaking.

Incident date: Feb 15, 2023

ABS module failure

Incident date: May 31, 2026

I am reporting a safety issue involving the Active Handling/Stability Control system on my 2012 Chevrolet Corvette. After a routine oil change at Grossman Chevrolet in [XXX] on XXX, the “Service Active Handling System” warning appeared. I called the dealership and was told to cycle the ignition several times to reset it, but the warning stayed on. In early XXX, I returned for diagnosis. The d... Read more

Incident date: Apr 24, 2026

* Intelligent Braking system. * yes it is available for inspection * I was inches from colliding with the vehicle in front of me when my car finally stopped. * Yes local official BMW dealership inspected and diagnosed the IBS module is defective. * there was no prior warning.

Incident date: Jun 29, 2026

Honda Accord 9th Gen ABS/VSA Issues - DTC Code 81-20 /32-11. TPMS/ABS/VSA/Brake/Power Steering lights are on. Dealer claim is an ABS module issue and need replacement.

Incident date: Jul 1, 2026

I have a Bad ABS control module error code. Code C2200. The Module is not available to purchase. I had it back ordered for a year already till the dealer cancelled the order and refunded me the money. I am forced to drive my jeep this way. This needs to be addressed by the Jeep. This is a known issue in the Jeep community.

Incident date: May 10, 2026

Trailer Braking System on Vehicle when hooked to trailer will intermittenly fail to recognize connection and not apply brakes to trailer while stopping. Dealership has acknowledged problem exist and cannot isolate cause nor resolve safety issue and returned vehicle unrepaird. First appeared after purchase of new vehicle, dealership continued to claim it was my new trailer. Problem has been ongoing... Read more

Incident date: Jun 29, 2026

My car does not always respond when the brakes are tapped. They are soft/squishy at times and I have to push the pedal all the way to the floor for the car to stop. This issue has been occuring off & on for approximately 3 years though it's been more frequent since June of 2026. I have never seen any warning or failure light/notification any of the times this has happened. The issue was determine... Read more

Incident date: Jun 24, 2026

An Audi dealer installed 245/40R18 93H tires on this 2018 Audi A4, while the vehicle placard/specification requires 245/40R18 97H. The lower load index reduces capacity from 1,609 lb per tire to 1,433 lb per tire, approximately 704 lb total across four tires. This creates a safety risk because load-rated tires affect vehicle stability, heat buildup, braking, steering/cornering, suspension loading,... Read more

Incident date: May 6, 2026

NHSTA SAFETY COMPLAINT TEXT Safety defect and Incident Chronology: I am reporting a catastrophic, recurring sudden unintended acceleration (SUA) defect originating strictly from a forward idle state, culminating in a severe bidirectional runaway and property damage crash. This vehicle utilizes an Electronic Throttle System-intelligent (ETCS) that failed to trigger a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Jun 3, 2026

The brakes system didnt seem to be stopping properly almost as if i had to push really hard on the brakes to get the car to stop. Finally today, I was 1.6 car lengths behind another vehicle whom slammed their brakes on for no reason and I had to do so as well. My car would not stop, the brakes would not work causing a major accident.

Crash

Incident date: Jun 13, 2026

Description of the Safety Crash/Informed Incident: Vehicle Information: 2004 Toyota Sequoia (VIN: [XXX]) Incident Date: [XXX] Location: [XXX] Police Agency: California Highway Patrol (Report #:[XXX]) Speed at Incident: Highway speeds (~65 MPH) Description of Defect/Failure: Structural mechanical failure leading to sudden, catastrophic wheel separation at highway speeds. Nine days prior to the inci... Read more

Incident date: Jun 13, 2026

Car surged as brakes were applied when stopping. Very dangerous. Could have easily rear-ended another vehicle. Surge was immediate and occurred when brake was being applied. Not confirmed yet, but another driver of vehicle told me of having similar problems when braking this car. Very scary. No warnings or messsages.

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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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