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: Nov 21, 2025
My 2018 Toyota Camry (VIN [XXX] ) crashed and burned completely on Nov 16, 2025. while driving on the Freeway the vehicle stopped suddenly without any notice on dashboard all electrical turned off steering wheel locked and lost control hit left fwy barrier which caused car to spun couple times and when it came to a complete stop was not able to turn car or even turn emergency lights on and coupl... Read more
Crash
Fire
FORD
F-150 LIGHTNING BEV
(2023) - STEERING
Nov 23, 2025
Incident date: Jul 10, 2025
What component or system failed or malfunctioned? Electrical system: infotainment display module, BCM, passive entry antenna, ignition/start system, and electronic power steering. Vehicle available for inspection. How was safety put at risk? The vehicle locked my children inside and would not start, requiring assistance to open it. The power steering failed for several hours, leaving the car un... Read more
Incident date: Nov 23, 2025
Service power steering light comes on and steering wheel doesn’t move when car is cold. Turn car off and restart and is fine with no lights.
Incident date: Oct 24, 2025
The power steering assist is not working and it can be replicated. Very hard to turn and over steering a safety issue, Accident risk as wheel does not return to straight position. There were no warning lights at all. I called stellaris customer service and documented but advised that my vin number was not on the safety recall list which is why I am reporting this. They said I can repair at ,y... Read more
Incident date: Oct 27, 2025
Recall that the dealer would not fix
Incident date: Oct 21, 2025
I am reporting multiple safety-related defects on my 2017 Tesla Model S (VIN [XXX] ) that were present at the time of purchase but not disclosed by the selling dealer (Starling Ford, Titusville, FL). A certified independent EV repair facility (The Electrified Garage) inspected the vehicle on 11/17/2025 and documented the following safety defects: • failing/worn suspension components (control ar... Read more
Incident date: Nov 22, 2025
The steering wheel locks briefly when the Idle Stop and Go (ISG) system restarts the vehicle. This happens intermittently, about 50% of the time. It has affected the ability to steer the vehicle properly when turning at a traffic light after the ISG system has initiated an engine shutdown and subsequent restart. This issue has been reported to our local dealership, but the technicians were not abl... Read more
Incident date: Nov 22, 2025
Upon purchasing the vehicle, I discovered multiple critical safety defects that were not disclosed at the time of sale and were confirmed by an independent EV specialist (Electrified Garage). These defects include worn and failing front and rear suspension components (control arms, thrust arms, and cracked/damaged bushings), a failing sway bar link boot, and a malfunctioning window that makes cont... Read more
Incident date: Oct 16, 2025
I am submitting a complaint regarding my 2020 Jeep Gladiator, which has exhibited persistent and dangerous steering issues since shortly after I purchased it. The issue is commonly referred to as the "death wobble." Despite 5 separate repair attempts performed by an authorized Jeep/Stellantis dealership, the safety defect continues to occur. This issue is very commonly know to Jeep. I have even be... Read more
Incident date: Nov 22, 2025
The tie rods make a popping noise and my car keeps going out of alignment
Incident date: Nov 20, 2025
Vehicle: 2023 Jeep Wrangler Sahara Mileage: Approx. 67,000 Case Number with Jeep/Stellantis: 94808242 I am reporting a recurring and dangerous “death wobble” safety defect in my 2023 Jeep Wrangler Sahara. I have experienced more than 30 separate incidents of violent front-end shaking while driving, often at highway speeds. The wobble happens suddenly without warning and causes the vehicle to ... Read more
FORD
BRONCO SPORT
(2024) - STEERING
Nov 22, 2025
Incident date: Oct 2, 2025
November 20,2025 I was driving my 2015 Toyota Rav-4….Turning into my driveway and Suddenly a light on the dashboard came on…An emblem with the Steering 🛞 Wheel and Exclamation ❗️ point came on…I was glad that I was at a safe place and called Toyota dealership service department…I was told that it was something to do with the Power Steering Electrical System…That I shouldn’t driv... Read more
Incident date: Nov 21, 2025
The steering is "jerky" and stiff. The LKAS is OFF and so is sport mode. I've had this same issue on a previous Honda and the steering gear box needed to be replaced. It feels very unsafe to drive like this. I have attempted to take it to the dealership already and they state they do not feel it and the vehicle is performing as designed. It's still persistent to the point I almost side swiped some... Read more
Incident date: Aug 9, 2025
The likely failed component is the Electronic Steering Column Lock (ESCL). Associated systems include the steering column, BCM, and EPS motor. Yes, the vehicle and component are available for inspection upon request (Owner: [XXX] , [XXX] ). The safety of the owner and other drivers was put at risk by the sudden, unpredictable loss of steering control (locking mid-turn). This makes it impossible t... Read more
Incident date: Jul 31, 2023
I've owned my car less than 4 months and it's acted up twice! I turn on the car and it refused to move. A steering wheel icon with an exclamation point displays on the dash. It just remains idle and it will NOT drive. It's a brand new 2026 and it's November 2025. It's extremely frustrating.
Incident date: Nov 21, 2025
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? My 2023 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe (VIN [XXX] ) has experienced repeated failures in the high-voltage hybrid electrical system, including “Service Hybrid System” warnings, failure to hold charge, and loss of EV function. It has also experienced a dangerous front steering damper failure at highway ... Read more
Incident date: May 1, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Mercedes-Benz E300. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle intermittently lost power steering functionality. The contact stated that the failure occurred increasingly while turning. The vehicle was taken to several independent mechanics and to the dealer, but no DTC was retrieved. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact related t... Read more
Incident date: Nov 10, 2025
See attached document for complaint.
Incident date: Nov 21, 2025
The contact owns a 2014 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while driving on the highway at night in the rain at approximately 40-45 MPH, the contact drove over an unavoidable puddle, and the electric power steering assist became inoperable. The advancetrac and the steering warning lights were illuminated, and the steering wheel was difficult to turn. The water eventually dried up, and the vehic... Read more
JEEP
GRAND CHEROKEE
(2014) - STEERING
Nov 21, 2025
Incident date: Oct 1, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Camaro. The contact stated that while driving over the train tracks at an undisclosed speed, the contact noticed that there was smoke and a burning odor coming through the vents. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact pulled over to the side of the road. The contact opened the hood and inspected the engine compartment, but the contact could no... Read more
Incident date: Feb 15, 2024
See attached document for complaint
Incident date: Nov 14, 2025
The car has a feature called "curvature assist" that takes control of braking and steering at times when using cruise control. The incidents are at times surprising as there is no curvature present but the braking is suddenly applied. This is a surprise for both the driver and any following traffic. The car would be safer if this feature could be disabled but that is not possible.
Incident date: Nov 19, 2025
No solution for the antilock breaking system,causing drivability issues and loss of traction control,abs and control on numerous occasions.
Incident date: Oct 2, 2025
Car has a power steering problem and car sensors are not working. Tire sensor, ac sensors, etc.
Incident date: Nov 21, 2025
This is an addendum to Complaint Number 11700647, and attaches the latest service and repair record of 10/10/25.
Incident date: Nov 7, 2025
The "Steering Assist is Reduced" warning came on the same time the engine thermostat display stopped working. Then the check engine light came on the same time the AC stopped working. At first I thought maybe it was just the battery, so I had that changed out. But the "Steering Assist" warning continued and the engine thermostat display was still stuck on "Cold" no matter what (note: the oil t... Read more
DODGE
CHALLENGER
(2022) - STEERING
Nov 21, 2025
Incident date: May 26, 2025
I am reporting a serious safety defect in my vehicle. While driving, the power steering suddenly failed without any warning, resulting in complete loss of steering control. At the same time, the brake warning light, ABS light, and traction control light illuminated, suggesting possible failure of critical braking and stability systems. This incident placed my safety and the safety of others at imm... Read more
Incident date: Nov 20, 2025
I was driving home, about a 30 min drive, in heavy rain. Once I got home, I left my car running to run inside. When I came back out the car was shaking and idling funny. A "low steering power" diagnostic came up and then also a parking malfunction. I turned the car off. It would barely turn over and still multiple diagnostic lights on. I pulled in into the garage and after sitting off for about 1... Read more
FORD
TRANSIT CONNECT
(2015) - STEERING
Nov 21, 2025
Incident date: Sep 8, 2025
2025 Chevy Tahoe: While approaching a traffic stop I hit the brake pedal and this would not work nor stopped the car. The pedal went all the way to the floor and would not work anymore. I believe the Emergency Brake activated and managed to stop the car. i was driving at The Check Engine warning light was immediately activated along with the following warnings: *Service Brake Assist *Check trai... Read more
Incident date: Nov 20, 2025
When using cruise control (traffic aware cruise control and autosteer) the car acts dangerously and stops for no reason. I've been driving on open roads with no traffic in front of me on regular roads, the car will slam on the brakes and it causes the people behind me to need to slam on their brakes as well. I feel like I'm going to get into an accident constantly... I was on the freeway and no o... Read more
JEEP
GRAND CHEROKEE
(2018) - STEERING
Nov 20, 2025
Incident date: Mar 12, 2025
The contact owns a 2014 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving at 30 MPH, the vehicle became difficult to maneuver. The red steering warning light was illuminated. The contact used force to maneuver the steering wheel. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road. The contact was later able to drive to the residence, but added effort was needed to steer the vehicle. The vehic... Read more
Incident date: Nov 20, 2025
Power steering went out while I was driving and it put me in danger and other drivers because it was hard to control the vehicle, the steering wheel was really tough to turn. The vehicle wasn't inspected by a professional because the problem just occurred.
Incident date: Nov 17, 2020
I was attempting to make a left hand turn when my power steering failed. Continued to be out for several more minutes of driving and then it restored itself. Has not been a problem while driving the vehicle today.
MITSUBISHI
OUTLANDER
(2024) - STEERING
Nov 20, 2025
Incident date: Nov 19, 2025
This 2024 Honda Accord Touring Hybrid has had 7 instances of Power System Error Messages, leading to returns to the Dealer for multiple repairs or exchanges of the air conditioning compressor, battery sensor, 12 V battery, and rack-and-pinion steering gear. These issues have severely disrupted travel plans and caused inconvenience. Since purchase, 19 months ago, the car has been unavailable to us... Read more
POLESTAR
POLESTAR 2
(2021) - STEERING
Nov 20, 2025
Incident date: Nov 19, 2025
10/8/2025 The steering wheel was sticking.Honda mechanic said it was the left drive shaft. They ordered part and said would be a 2 hour repair. 10/16/2025 Took vehicle back into shop for repair at 10:30 a,m. Vehicle not ready until 5:15p.m. We drove out and steering wheel still sticking. Went back manager drove it and said might be some part that needs greasing but he would check with the Hond... Read more
Incident date: Nov 13, 2025
When making a sharp left turn at full steering lock the car makes clicking noises. Service center states it is CV joint related and several cars with this performance suspension have this problem. It may be a safety hazard should the CV joint fail and it is a known issue.
Incident date: Nov 17, 2025
The contact owns a 2014 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving at 20 MPH, the vehicle became difficult to maneuver. The Power Steering warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the residence, and the vehicle was not diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.
Incident date: Nov 20, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Ram 2500. The contact stated that the steering wheel was loose, causing the vehicle to wobble while driving over a minor bumpy road surface. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was inspected, and the dealer determined that the welds of the nut to the adjuster sleeve were fractured. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Nu... Read more
Incident date: Oct 1, 2025
The steering locked up when the brakes were pressed and the steering wheel was turned to avoid crashing with another car. The result is the crash happened and damage to both cars. Thankfully traffic was only going around 10 mph. If this had happened at high speed my son may have been seriously injured or even killed. The mechanic is working on it now and has reported the power steering module ... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Nov 16, 2025
There is a button on the top of the steering wheel that puts the car in low gear. We have been going down the interstate twice and my husband accidentally hit the button slowing down the car immediately. This is very dangerous and could cause a rear end collision. We have reported it to Chevrolet several times, to the service department twice and the corporation also. Low gear has normally been... Read more
Incident date: Oct 30, 2025
I am reporting a major safety defect that began immediately after Tesla installed the Full Self-Driving (FSD) hardware upgrade on my vehicle. After paying $2,000 for FSD and receiving the hardware retrofit, the car now instantly veers left toward oncoming traffic whenever FSD is engaged. This began immediately after Tesla’s installation. Before this service, my vehicle operated safely. I have ... Read more
Incident date: Sep 20, 2025
"STEERING ASSIST IS REDUCED" This message appears on the instrument panel once in a while, and I have to get a mechanic to reset it. Many other people who drive the 2018 GMC Acadia, are reporting the same problem. This occurs so frequently on this model, that it obviously was a manufacturing design flaw.
Incident date: Nov 19, 2025
I would like to report a significant incident involving the auto-corrective steering in my vehicle. While driving on the highway, the steering wheel experienced a strong jolt, which I believe was caused by the auto-corrective steering system. This resulted in the vehicle spinning three times and ultimately coming to rest on the grassy center divider. Fortunately, no damage occurred at that time, a... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Nov 18, 2025
See attached document for complaint.
Incident date: Aug 6, 2025
Approximately two months ago while driving about 65 mph on the interstate the power steering failed, and reverted to manual steering. The vehicle became extremely difficult to turn. I was near an exit, and as I slowed to leave the interstate, at 30-35 mph the steering began to work normally. I did not have the issue investigated. Two days ago while going to work, and descending a mountain which h... Read more
Incident date: Nov 13, 2025
I was driving in the highway and my steering became so stiff that I could barely turn the wheel.It wasn’t just stiff, It was almost impossible to make a turn unless I use all my strength and turn the wheel with both of my hands. . It made me pull over the car and get it towed to the dealership. This was very dangerous because I couldn’t react to oncoming traffic or make regular turns on the s... Read more
Incident date: Nov 18, 2023
POWER STEERING AND STABILITAK UNABLE TO STEER . CHECKED OWNERS MANULE IT SAYS TURN TRUCK OFF THEN START AGAIN. iT ALSO STATES IT IS STILL SAFE TO DRIVE I don't think so!!! it comes with no warning and you have to pull over and shut the truck off let it sit just a short while then it will steer just fine ....again for a while . the warning lamps and chimes worked just fine. at the same time the... Read more
Incident date: Aug 21, 2025
Malfunction of the Steering Column Control Module causing a disconnect with all associated components such as causing wipers to run continuously on max, and all listed functions stopped working including; SOS, Jeep Assist, blind spot, high & low beams, brake lights, turn signals, lane assist, horn, rear wiper, windshield washer fluid, airbag deployment, infotainment system, etc. Vehicle is current... Read more
Incident date: Nov 3, 2025
My Honda is having strange, intermittent issues with a plethora of things. I have taken it to a diagnostic specialist who worked with a phone mechanic and noone can tell me what is going on. My car will fully shut off at stop lights randomly, so I have to turn off the auto-idle feature every time I drive. Sometimes my power steering cuts out and my wheel locks and unlocks and my computer screen... Read more
Incident date: Mar 7, 2025
While driving at highway speeds, the wheel started to wobble uncontrollably for 20-30 seconds. I lost fine control of steering had maneuver to the shoulder as I reduced speed the wobble immediately stopped. This is extremely disconcerting and dangerous. I noticed this happening months ago but wasn't sure if it was rough patches in the road or speed bumps. But almost losing control confirmed it was... Read more