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 117,788 complaints - component: STEERING
Incident date: Mar 27, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Land Rover Range Rover. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact heard a loud clanking sound coming from underneath the vehicle. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact noticed that both sides of the suspension arms had fractured. The contact received notification of the NHTSA Campaign to Number: 24V840000 (Steerin... Read more
Incident date: Mar 21, 2025
Steering sticks in the center position. Makes it difficult to maintain a straight line.
Incident date: Jan 30, 2025
While driving to work the power steering locked up with a code of Power Steering Assist Fault. Can you imagine driving down the road in rush hour and this happens to your vehicle?? We have checked into the Customer Service 15N01 from Ford and it EXPIRED in 2015! THIS SHOULD BE A SAFETY RECALL put out by NHTSA!!!! We have read all of these complaints on this website of the exact same problem wi... Read more
Incident date: Mar 26, 2025
While towing a heavy load of approx. 16,000 Lbs. uphill steep grade during 100 degree temperature at low travel speed but high engine RPM a load boom came from the engine compartment. Upon inspection the fan shroud had made contact to the fan and caused severe damaged to the cooling system rendering the vehicle disabled until repairs could be made. This occurred about 30,000 miles ago however the ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 21, 2025
The contact owns a 2011 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while driving 15-20 MPH, the steering wheel became inoperable. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was like NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (Steering). The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who determined that the steering rack needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 6, 2025
vehicle is 2019 year, 2500 series, crew cab, 4wd, cummins 6.7 turbo diesel. Steering systems wanders and will not steer straight at all speeds. vehicle was bought used with 127,000 miles and was to be used just to pull a 9,000lb travel trailer. as of 03/27/2025 vehicle has been in repair shop over 4 weeks now. upper and lower ball joints replaced, steering gear box replaced, entire suspension sy... Read more
Incident date: Mar 23, 2025
The contact owns a 2019 Ram 1500. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel seized, and the power steering warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the steering wheel became difficult to turn. The vehicle was able to restart. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The fail... Read more
Incident date: Mar 6, 2025
COMMON ISSUE, The steering assist is reduced and temp gauge is stuck on C. This either a thermostat or temp sensor issue.
Incident date: Jan 15, 2025
While driving the Jeep at any speeds, or while parked and not running, the steering has a sticking or notchy feel when the steering wheel is turned. While driving staraight, any adjustment to the steering wheel cause the vehicle to jerk/pull to one side or another. Had vehicle evaluated at repair shop where the complaint was dulicated. All electrical functions passed inspection. The shop concluded... Read more
Incident date: Mar 24, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fusion. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel seized, and the power steering warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the steering wheel became difficult to turn. The vehicle was able to be restarted. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failu... Read more
Incident date: Mar 10, 2025
The contact’s daughter owns a 2011 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while his daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The power steering failure warning light was illuminated. The warning light had escalated from yellow to red. The driver continued driving the vehicle; however, excessive force was needed to steer the vehicle. The vehicle... Read more
Incident date: Feb 24, 2025
sticky/notchy steering - this issue is the same as what is widely reported and already recalled on 11th generation honda civic and acura models. very widely reported in online forums and message boards. acknowledged by dealer service departments with recommended action of replacing steering rack. usually after warmup, the steering wheel is "sticky" or "notchy' when trying to make small inputs f... Read more
VOLKSWAGEN
ID.4
(2023) - STEERING
Mar 26, 2025
Incident date: Mar 26, 2025
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Steering Wheel. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Single vehicle accident. Driver suffered injury. No other person or vehicle was involved. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Don't Know. Has the vehicle... Read more
Crash
1 injured
Incident date: Mar 1, 2025
I have persistent vibration issues with Kia ev9. It is very much a risk as it causes concentration issues while driving. My tires are worn out at less than 10k. Looking at the forum and reports a lot of folks who have EV9 are facing the same issue. Is there a investigation which can be looked into as this can be a safety issue due to vibration as well tired being worn as well.
Incident date: Oct 21, 2019
Steering dampner. Causes steering to suddenly make the vehicle jerk to the left or the right when at speeds around 45 mph or higher making it a hazardious risk and safety concern for yourself and also other people.
Incident date: Mar 25, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Ford F-350. The contact stated while driving 5 MPH, the steering wheel became inoperable. The contact stated that the steering wheel was turning in a circular motion. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact was able to stop the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the steering... Read more
Incident date: Mar 26, 2024
The contact owns a 2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 24V763000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) and 24V744000 (Steering); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repairs. The manufacturer was not made... Read more
Incident date: Jan 22, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Jeep Gladiator. The contact stated that while driving on the interstate highway at 70 MPH, the vehicle wobbled abnormally with unknown warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed. The contact was informed that the VIN was not under recall. The contact was also informed that the steering dampener might have been... Read more
Incident date: Mar 7, 2025
At highway speeds, the steering has a hitch in it when making slight lane adjustments. This becomes more noticeable over 60mph and after driving for 20-30 minutes.
Incident date: Mar 18, 2025
I recently experienced a power steering failure on my 2018 Honda accord 1.5t sport. When going to pull into a parking spot when turning my wheel to the left the power steering failed leaving me on the road. With all the lights coming onto the dash unable to pinpoint a specific issue. Upon taking it to the dealer I was informed that I needed a new “gearbox, steering”. More specifically the rack... Read more
Incident date: Mar 26, 2024
At about 65-70 MPH, upon hitting an mildly rough spot on highway, my 2015 F250 started shaking violently: i.e better known as the Ford "Death Wobble."
Incident date: Mar 19, 2025
I was driving the vehicle on the highway when the vehicle started to overheat, lights started blinking, the car was smoking, losing power and acceleration. This car has a recall on the cyclindwr head which when cracks causing the car to loose coolant and oil. If it cracks while you’re driving especially on the highway the car will immediately loose coolant and oil thus causing a very dangerous d... Read more
Incident date: Jan 8, 2025
There was a shortage in the blinkers, and when a right turn was being made due to the blinker, not working, the car was snatched to the left, due to the lane assist being on which almost caused an accident.
Incident date: Dec 31, 2024
The contact owns a 2015 Land Rover Range Rover. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V840000 (Steering); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that while inspecting the vehicle, the contact became aware that the knuckle on the fro... Read more
Incident date: Dec 31, 2024
The contact owns a 2005 Mini Cooper. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the steering wheel was difficult to turn. The vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V660000 (Steering). The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the power steering pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was take... Read more
Incident date: Mar 22, 2025
The power steering assist has cause the steering wheel to move to its let by its self when not holding the steering wheel. I must hold the steering wheel firmly to keep it strait when driving. If i would let go the car will abruptly turn left and possibly drive off the road or hit a car, pedestrian, or whatever is in the way. It started with uncontrolled vibrating at a stand still motion. The car ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 25, 2024
After recall it is still hard to turn. And dealership ask me to pay to repair it.
Incident date: Mar 25, 2025
Power steering went out while driving and power steering light came on dash.
VOLKSWAGEN
ID.4
(2023) - STEERING
Mar 25, 2025
Incident date: Mar 25, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel failed to turn in the intended direction. The contact stated that the steering wheel was turned to the left; however, the steering wheel independently turned to the right. The contact stated that the steering wheel had seized. In addition, the contact stated that two days later sever... Read more
Incident date: Feb 13, 2025
The contact owns a 2007 Honda Civic Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel seized with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the steering wheel was difficult to turn. The contact also stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The vehicl... Read more
Incident date: Mar 25, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Toyota Corolla. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle downshifted with no warning light illuminated. The contact also stated that the steering wheel seized with no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the steering wheel became difficult to turn. The vehicle was able to restart. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, w... Read more
Incident date: Oct 15, 2023
The contact owned a 2021 Honda Civic. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH and attempting to make a right turn, the steering wheel became difficult to turn. The contact stated that the failure only occurred while making a right turn. No warning light was illuminated. An unknown dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the... Read more
Incident date: Feb 23, 2023
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Focus. The contact stated while driving 20 MPH, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the residence and was then towed to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the steering rack and pinion needed to be replaced. The repair was pending. The manufacturer was notified of the fail... Read more
Incident date: Mar 5, 2025
Undercarriage is susceptible to, and has excessive rust including steering and suspension components, braking systems, frame and body mounting components, as well as the spare rim and mount. Rust increases in severity from front to rear. It has completely eaten through both of the rear shock absorber mounts, which is a very common problem for this model due to a faulty design where mud and debris ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 17, 2019
I am writing to formally complain about significant issues I am experiencing with my 2022 Polestar 2, vin: [XXX] . Specifically, I am experiencing the following problems: Front Knocking/Rattle Sound: A distinct knocking or rattling sound is emanating from the front tire area, particularly noticeable during low-speed maneuvers and over uneven surfaces. This noise is concerning and suggests a pote... Read more
Incident date: Mar 11, 2025
Steering column failed. Loud pop and steering wheel became floppy and wold move in every direction including in and out. Fortunately it happened while driving in my driveway. I delivered it to a local service center where repairs were completed. I still have the old parts available for inspection. Only 50004 miles on the vehicle.
Incident date: Mar 24, 2025
Steering assist failed almost resulting in head on collision. Failure is serious and likely to cause fatalities
Incident date: Jan 17, 2025
My 2013 ram 1500 has an electronic power steering system. That unit has completely failed and the steering is locked up. It can't be turned. I was backing out of my driveway when it happened. If I had been going down the road at 60mph someone would have been killed. The truck is unsafe and can't be driven. There is a warning lamp for a power steering issue. Dealer says I have to buy a new steerin... Read more
GMC
SIERRA 1500
(2024) - STEERING
Mar 24, 2025
Incident date: Mar 11, 2025
Electric power steering failed, causing the car to be almost impossible to steer while driving. This is a known issue with these Ford vehicles. Car shows steering failure and stabilitrak warning-these did not come on until the failure.
Incident date: Jan 15, 2025
Heat shield over drive train not installed properly. While driving since purchased I’d hear a metal reverberation / clunking sound that seemed to be under the truck. I even had it in for oil change service w/ dealer and no mention of finding anything. On Sat 3/15/2025 I took it back to dealer with the heat shield that was torn from the undercarriage over the drive train, the service person sai... Read more
HONDA
ACCORD HYBRID
(2023) - STEERING
Mar 24, 2025
Incident date: Nov 15, 2024
2airbagsrecall,epas-steering 15n01,nhtsarecall19v001000,.
Incident date: Sep 24, 2024
My wife was travelling down a two-lane road at 50mph when the engine suddenly shut off affecting steering. She was able to maneuver to the shoulder, but the vehicle would not restart. Could have been much worse. Had it towed to the dealer we purchased it from, and they informed us the engine had seized. There were no warning signs or dash lights indicating there may be an issue.
Incident date: Jan 1, 2025
The Power steering system on our 2014 Ram is faulty and we were told there is a recall associated with this issue but it does not include our Vin Number. If this is a known issue with the Rams from 2013-2016 why haven't all the models been recalled. As of this time the issue only happens when first starting the truck and then the warning light goes off. We are afraid to drive this vehicle.
Incident date: Jan 10, 2025
The steering wheel "sticks" at dead center when on a smooth straight road. When I try to make a micro adjustment due to road crown, wind, etc., the wheel won't move without considerable force, then will suddenly give way and jump off center the direction I'm pushing. Then I have to correct back.
Incident date: Mar 24, 2025
Factory Aluminum Steering Box presents a severe safety hazard and should be immediately recalled due to its dangerous failure in cold and probably all temperatures. In low temperatures, the steering sticks and does not move freely, making normal driving extremely hazardous for both the driver and others on the road. While straight roads may not reveal the issue, attempting to turn on a curve becom... Read more
Incident date: Feb 15, 2025
Car starts and then turns itself off immediately. It shows the message “Engine Stopped Steering Power Low”. It is raining where I live and I’ve read online that this is an issue that is happening to these vehicles when it rains.
Incident date: Mar 21, 2025
I bought a 2019 Jeep Cherokee Limited used on July 30, 2024. Through the rest of the year I experienced a short sharp sudden pull from the steering wheel to the right and left. This happens frequently, several times in every drive. I had tires replaces and suspension balanced on March 5, 2025. This did not change the issue. When driving, the vehicle pulls left or right randomly especially at highe... Read more
Incident date: Mar 20, 2025
Going around curves the vehicles steering seems to lock in the turn and then jerks out of the turns. The dealership says there's nothing wrong. . It's dangerous and scarey and this is a minivan the steering should not lock or get stuck going around curves off offramp anywhere between 30- 55 mph. It's scarey . The car turns out of the lane on several occasions at first that's how I thought the... Read more
Incident date: Mar 20, 2025
The power steering failed sporadically and it could return to normal state after power off/reset or the errors could be latch on for days. When the power steering reduced errors message occur, the steering wheel is too heavy for any turn, we lost steering and went over to the opposite lanes (fortunately there was no on coming traffic). The car needed a tow to the service centre.