Consumer Safety Complaints

Search 2,215,138 safety complaints filed by vehicle owners with NHTSA — including 138,663 crashes, 56,255 fires, and 8,561 deaths.

2,215,138 Total Complaints

138,663 Reported Crashes

56,255 Reported Fires

8,561 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 2,215,138 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 116,327 complaints — component: STEERING

Incident date: Nov 16, 2024

See attached document for complaint.

Incident date: Oct 7, 2025

Everytime I try to turn my wheel it’ll get stiff and the notification will pop up saying “electric power steering system” but then it’ll go back to normal and when I start the car it sounds like it doesn’t want to start at all and like the cords are trying to connect because they start making a ticking sound. I’ve had issues with electrical before to where the airbags and lane assist h... Read more

Incident date: Oct 7, 2025

The contact's friend owns a 2026 Buick Envista. The contact stated that while driving 5 MPH into a parking lot, the vehicle stopped unexpectedly. The contact stated that the vehicle jolted as if the vehicle was in a crash. The steering wheel was unresponsive while attempting to turn to the left or the right, and the front wheels failed to respond as intended. After stopping the vehicle, the ABS an... Read more

Incident date: Feb 12, 2026

steering bind, notchy steering, off-center steering

Incident date: Mar 9, 2026

I purchased a vehicle from Banter Auto here in Wichita, Kansas. I reviewed the Carfax beforehand and nothing stood out that scared me so I signed off and purchased the vehicle. I have had nothing but problems since buying which was 7 months ago and have spent $9000 on repairs. I’ve been told by several mechanics the last 5 times I’ve been in and out of mechanic shops it’s evident my car sat ... Read more

Incident date: Mar 1, 2021

This has been occurring for many months. Experience STICKY STEERING! Seems to be air temperature and speed related. The steering is fine initially until I've driven 10-15 miles. The sticking occurs with High ambient air temps and speed over approx. 35 MPH, and progressively worse at highway speeds. Only occurs with steering wheel input from wheel center position. Initial wheel input resistance, t... Read more

Incident date: Feb 10, 2026

Sticky Steering causing over correction when attempting to drive straight. Driving and drifting to either left or right, then attempting to find center, steering wheel will feel sticky and over correct past center. This then makes the car drift to the other direction, then requiring another correcting back, which also over corrects/skips center. The problem is most noticeable during highway drivin... Read more

Incident date: Feb 25, 2026

The contact owns a 2018 Honda Civic. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel became firm and was sticking while driving forward. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 59,000.

Incident date: Mar 15, 2023

I was driving Honda CRV on Route 60, MPH was about 30 when the vehicle went to side by side on the road. This is a 2 lane highway. If some was coming the other way I could not help from colliding into them. I pulled over as soon as I could. The Honda has a left rear frams is broken. I heard other people announcing that their frame on CRV Honda 2012 is broken at the same side. It is a good car exce... Read more

Incident date: Mar 8, 2026

The electric power steering is malfunctioning. At highway speeds, steering becomes sticky. It is difficult to make small adjustments (such as to stay within the lane), leading to overcorrections to compensate. I worry that the stickiness and associated overcompensation may lead cause a crash if it persists. The issue has not been confirmed by a dealer or service center nor inspected by manufac... Read more

Incident date: Mar 10, 2026

The contact owns a 2003 Jeep Liberty. The contact stated that while turning the steering wheel to the left or the right, the steering wheel was difficult to turn due to a loss of power steering assist. There was a grinding sound while turning the steering wheel. The sound was loud enough to hear outside of the vehicle. There was an unknown orange warning light displayed briefly. The vehicle was no... Read more

Incident date: Apr 4, 2025

While the vehicle is in motion. The steering wheel will turn by itself without input from the driver. As of right now, the steering is stiff while making a left turn, and will free wheel back to right turn Without input from driver. This will occur on and off while driving. If you are not attentive, it will easily cause an accident. This first happened 19FEB2026. No warning lights present in the... Read more

Incident date: Mar 2, 2026

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? turning the steering wheel makes clicking sounds from under the dash like a card in a bike tire spokes. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? a problem from a steering wheel/column making strange noises in a new/newer vehicle, how is anyone to know if it will lock up or not work p... Read more

Incident date: May 26, 2023

I am filing a complaint regarding an unresolved safety recall affecting my 2016 Range Rover Sport TDV6, VIN: [XXX] . This vehicle is subject to Recall D019 (NHTSA Recall 25V-514). Despite the recall being issued, I have contacted the dealership multiple times and have repeatedly been told that the remedy or required parts are not yet available. There has been no clear timeline provided for when th... Read more

Incident date: Mar 10, 2026

After the vehicle was parked on my driveway overnight, I started driving and i got this Steering warning lights Service power steering messages Multiple electronic systems glitching at the same time I had to stop in the middle of the street because the steering wheel was super hard. I was not able to turn any way. after a few minutes I turned off the vehicle and called the dealership to see if the... Read more

Incident date: Feb 27, 2026

The contact owns a 2005 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel became inoperable. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to the U-joint in the steering column, which made the vehicle difficult to control. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufact... Read more

Incident date: Mar 10, 2026

Over the last month, twice this has happened. When I turn, either direction it feels like the back wheels lock up. Rub. Drag. Took it to the dealer, and they can't get it to replicate the issue.. something is clearly wrong. Google states alot of 2022-2024 wagoneer have documented similar issues. It does NOT consistently happen. But it happened twice since end of January. Matter of fact, since I ha... Read more

Incident date: Feb 28, 2026

The contact owns a 2009 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel failed to steer in the intended direction. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the failure occurred while making a left turn, and the steering wheel was difficult to turn. The vehicle was driven to the residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by... Read more

Incident date: Apr 27, 2021

ABS module reported to dealer in February, 2025..They said was safe to drive. Then April 2025 the module went out.-Part has been on backorder since March 2025. It was taken to Key Chrysler Dodge Jeep in Marianna in March 2025. Jeep would not steer properly, the brakes were not normal and all the warning lights on dash were on. I could not drive. .

Incident date: Mar 1, 2022

Unknown: Steering is stiff. Minor changes like maintaining lanes or changing lanes is becoming increasingly difficult. Large motions are fluid. It feels like it’s sticky. When I change lanes or other minor changes it takes a lot of work to move the car back to its original position. Having issues where it gets caught in certain positions causing significant steering issues.

Incident date: Feb 9, 2026

Subject: Safety Defect / Recall Not Properly Completed – 2018 Ram 2500 Steering Drag Link Vehicle: 2018 Ram 2500 VIN: [XXX] Recall Campaign: 19V‑021 / V06 – Steering Drag Link Jam Nut Complaint Description: I am filing a safety complaint regarding a potential unresolved defect on my 2018 Ram 2500. This vehicle was included in Recall 19V‑021 / V06, issued to address a safety issue where... Read more

Incident date: Jul 1, 2025

My 2018 Honda Civic started more than a year ago having STICKY STEERING. When looking online, it is a known problem with later Honda's, but the dealer will not help on a 2018 model. The issue was felt by the Honda dealer sitting still. Though their head mechanic said they could try an "experimental" gearbox lube for approx. $450. At 50 mph on curves the problem feels downright dangerous. Steering ... Read more

Incident date: Feb 3, 2026

While driving a 2014 Ford Fusion during a snowstorm, the vehicle displayed the warning message “Steering Assist Fault – Service Required.” Immediately afterward, the steering became extremely difficult to turn, requiring significantly greater effort to control the vehicle. This sudden loss of power steering assist created a serious safety risk for myself and others on the road. The vehicle ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 10, 2026

Car has only 45,000 miles. Steering suddenly “sticks” on the highway. You have to apply pressure to break it out of sticking in the middle position. Seems to be EPS system. Saw on line that it’s a known issue.

Incident date: Feb 25, 2026

The engine lost complete power. This is a 2024 Toyota Tundra I=Max Force Hybrid. The low Oil Pressure, Hybrid Malfunction, Check Engine lights all came on. i lost all power, steering, brakes, and had no Hybrid assist. I was nearly hit from the back. I was able to get help from people to push it out the highway. There was no warning prior to this happening. I have read about all the engine problems... Read more

Incident date: Mar 9, 2026

The contact owns a 2024 Mazda CX-90. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds and attempting to make a left or right turn, the steering wheel failed to return to center. There was an unknown warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with an electrical failure. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not ... Read more

Incident date: Mar 4, 2026

When turning left or right, the vehicle produces a distinct clicking sound from the front drivetrain or steering area. This issue was first noticed on January 22, 2025 and has continued to occur since that time. I have reported the problem to the dealership on multiple occasions; however, the concern is no longer being documented on my service receipts despite my attempts to have it addressed. The... Read more

Incident date: Feb 27, 2026

The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Accent. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds on several occasions, the steering wheel seized. No warning light was illuminated. The brakes locked up, causing a tire blowout. The contact stated that the tie rod was replaced. The contact stated that a neighbor assisted with freeing the steering wheel. The vehicle was taken to an independent mech... Read more

Incident date: Mar 10, 2026

I am reporting a failure of the Steering Column Control Module (SCCM) in my 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Overland. The failure is manifesting as an error message saying "service transmission" and the code that it is throwing says that the paddle shifters are overheating. This component is identical to the modules currently under Safety Recall 36B (NHTSA 24V-199) and Equipment Recall 15B (NHTSA 24E-0... Read more

Incident date: Feb 27, 2026

The steering on my car is sticking and failing. When I make a turn, the steering wheel does not go back to the center on its own. I have to physically pull it back, otherwise the car will keep turning. When driving straight, the steering wheel gets "stuck." I have to use extra force to make small adjustments, which makes the car jerk. The steering also makes clunking noises. This is extremely dang... Read more

Incident date: Feb 10, 2026

Vehicle went into a shut down and all electrical power was dead. Attempted to charge battery and battery had 13.2 amps. Towed to dealer and they reported a software update was required. Also they later reported the battery was changed. Upon pick up, the dash reported warnings of no steering assist, no traction control and software update required. Vehicle has been back 4 times and dealer cann... Read more

Incident date: Mar 5, 2026

2013 Ford F‑150 Limited – VIN [XXX] On [XXX], my 2013 Ford F‑150 Limited experienced a sudden and dangerous transmission failure involving the transmission conductor plate (lead frame). My son was driving the vehicle when the dashboard abruptly shut off, multiple warning lights illuminated, and the truck lost engine power. Shortly afterward, while braking, the engine attempted to accelerat... Read more

Incident date: Mar 10, 2026

The contact owns a 2025 Nissan Kicks. The contact stated that there was a popping sound coming from the steering wheel while making a left or right turn. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who was unable to duplicate the sound. The dealer had not diagnosed or repaired the vehicle. The contact stated that the sound had become more prominent and persistent... Read more

Incident date: Nov 15, 2025

This is a safety issue and a known issue. Toyota is reporting that it is wear and tear and denying my goodwill repair but it is a technical service bulletin TSB #0082-21 - so it is a safety issue. I emailed and called and have case number with Toyota - 260225002292

Incident date: Feb 10, 2026

When driving on ice the car mistakes a lack of steering resistance for hands being off the wheel (especially when both hands are on the wheel providing even resistance to both sides). It will sound an alarm and jerk the wheel to the side to get the driver's attention, but that sideways jerk causes a loss of steering in icy conditions. This happens multiple times per drive, sometimes within a seco... Read more

Incident date: Mar 9, 2026

Total loss of power steering. Was able to avoid crash but extremely dangerous. Has to get it towed to dealer $6,800 fix for total rack replacement due to bolts sheering off from EPS. Research shows this is a known issue due to faulty aluminum bolts in areas that salt roads.

Incident date: Feb 4, 2026

When I make a u turn the wheel makes a loud clicking noise.

Incident date: Aug 5, 2025

The vehicle is experiencing multiple serious mechanical failures affecting the brake system, powertrain, and steering/wheel components. The brake system produces a constant hissing sound and appears to have lost braking assist. When the brake pedal is depressed the vehicle continues to roll forward and requires excessive force to stop. The vehicle has rolled forward while braking at intersections,... Read more

Incident date: Dec 1, 2024

Power steering went out. Started by stiffening when turning. Took to dealer, who said there was a recall. It turned out there was none. After that, the power steering quit, won’t turn. Service steering wheel light is on. Vehicle not drivable. Looking at a three to four thousand to get it fixed.

Incident date: Jan 6, 2026

Electronic power steering has started working intermittently. Very hard to steer truck at times. Very dangerous.

Incident date: Feb 28, 2026

Good evening, I’m emailing to you regarding my ford fusion q20212. My steering has went out non drivable. I did see where that year had a lot of power steering issues.. could you help me out on the power steering recall and the power train.. also need to get airbag completed. Text me a Time to meet I can’t drive it ar all will need towed. Thank you for print ur time… I really need to get fix... Read more

Incident date: Mar 9, 2026

I am consistently having the power steering shut off while driving . I have read that this was an issue with the 2015 model year that had a recall issued , but there is no recall for the exact same problem on a 2016 model year . When this happens it puts me at risk of controlling vehicle , not only at slow speeds but also at freeway driving .

Incident date: Mar 5, 2026

Accident report: Local ID [XXX] Agency: ISPLowell 13 Date [XXX] Time approx [XXX] Milepost [XXX] on [XXX] Auto: 2025 Mercedes GLS 450 fully loaded Single car accident See attached pictures for damage State Farm insurance - claim filed (claim # [XXX]) Claim filed with Mercedes Benz on 3/9/2026 to access info from event data recorders (claim #[XXX])a total loss Driver’s 2 front airbags deployed - ... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Feb 11, 2025

On January 29, 2026 my 2023 Tesla Model Y was serviced by Tesla for windshield repair and routine maintenance. Within a week after the service visit, the vehicle began displaying a service warning message on the dashboard. I contacted Tesla and was advised to bring the vehicle back for inspection. Before I could return to the service center, while slowly reversing out of my garage, a large bolt f... Read more

Incident date: Jan 8, 2026

Our CX90 continues to have a very sticky steering issue which causing significant oversteer when attempting to “unstick” the wheel. This has lead to numerous incidents of potential accidents.

Incident date: Mar 6, 2026

Front end alignment is incorrect from Toyota factory. This is reflected in the service campaign 24TD01 for this vehicle. Toyota refuses to fix the problem, stating the campaign has expired. The alignment causes premature uneven wear of the tires, which is a safety problem. The 24TD01 campaign document states the dealer should complete the service prior to sale. Marietta Toyota DID NOT complete thi... Read more

Incident date: Mar 2, 2026

The contact owns a 2017 Honda Civic. The contact stated that while driving at 70 MPH, the steering wheel became very stiff. The vehicle was driven slowly to the residence. The vehicle was then driven to a dealer, where it was diagnosed with a steering gear box failure. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 152,000.

Incident date: Mar 3, 2026

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel seized, with the power steering warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the steering wheel became difficult to turn. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diag... Read more

Incident date: Apr 11, 2025

Steering intermittently sticks making driving awkward and difficult to hold a straight line.

Incident date: Mar 8, 2026

The contact owns a 2020 Ford F-250. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V626000 (Steering); 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 on backorder. The contact was advised not t... Read more

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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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