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.
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
Showing 49,040 complaints — component: STRUCTURE:BODY
Incident date: Sep 21, 2022
Door latch broken as described in recall R89978. Called local dealership and they are unable to fix it until October 27th, 1 month later.
DODGE
GRAND CARAVAN
(2019) — STRUCTURE:BODY
Sep 22, 2022
Incident date: Sep 22, 2022
Passenger side sliding door will not open, either manually or electrically.
Incident date: Sep 7, 2022
Drivers side rear door. Quit opening by either outside or inside handle. Tried repeated locking unlocking, hitting door outside and inside. Safety issue as my wife in a wheelchair must ride in back seat. Now cannot get door open. Afraid it will happen in other side aswell or maybe front doors as well. Extreme Safety issue if I was involved in an accident. The door that quit just stopped no warning... Read more
Incident date: Jul 1, 2020
I have white paint and my vehicle has 30,000 mi and the paint is peeling off of hood and now roof I have contacted Hyundai and dealership with no satisfaction
Incident date: Sep 15, 2022
The frame is showing significant rust damage throughout the frame. A hole was punctured in the passenger side while using the factory bottle jack. This could have ended badly if someone was underneath when this happened. Furthermore there is deterioration on the front and rear sections that are questionable as to their integrity and resilience in the event of a crash. It is generally accepted by o... Read more
Incident date: Sep 20, 2022
Sunroof spontaneously shattered while driving. No other cars around when this occurred. Caused a very loud BANG. Was driving on the freeway when this occurred. Dealer would not confirm issue was spontaneous - felt something must have hit the car to cause this. No defined impact location on roof. Also, roof glass was pushed up in the middle instead of down like would be expected if something ... Read more
Incident date: Sep 6, 2022
The back passenger tire started rubbing and smoking. After getting home, noticed the wheel was at an angle. After taking off the tire, noticed the whole rear suspension cradle was completely rusted through. I contacted Chrysler dealer to find out no recall. Contacted the place I purchased the jeep only 18 months ago, sent them pics, and was told "That is normal". I could have been on the Interstat... Read more
Incident date: Aug 29, 2022
Condensation from evaporator drain is leaking into cab, which has created mold, exposing myself and any passengers riding in my vehicle including my kids. Ford issued TSB 19-2345 to fix this issue but it does not work and they are not willing to replace the molded carpet under a field service action. This is a known design flaw that should be fixed as soon as possible to prevent mold growth. If mo... Read more
Incident date: Aug 2, 2022
Trunk latch; trunk will not open from inside of car. There is a current recall for this same issue on other Hyundai models but not the azera.
Incident date: Sep 21, 2022
When the vehicle is parked and the trunk is opened, some percentage of the time the trunk does not remain in the open position and immediately closes. If the trunk is then opened additional times it generally remains opened. When the trunk unexpectedly closes the trunk object detection does not work and applies a great deal of downforce. When the trunk finally stops trying to close it remains... Read more
Incident date: Jun 15, 2022
Actuator Assy., Fuel Lid (FUEL FILL DOOR LOCK ACTUATOR). Repeatedly locks and unlocks (making a gun shot noise loudly) every time I get in and out of the vehicle. Yes, it is available for inspection at any time. My safety or the safety of others could be at risk with the open gas cap, constant moving electrical components, and to be left stranded unable to open the gas door. The Problem was talked... Read more
Incident date: Sep 19, 2022
My son purchased a brand new 2023 Yamaha TW200 from Ridenow Powersports on Rancho in Las Vegas. On his ride home he discovered numerous safety discrepancies with the motorcycle which could have ended with catistrophic results. First he noticed the gears were not properly engaging during shifts but found that pushing clutch lever forward after shifting corrected problem. The left side rearview mir... Read more
Incident date: Sep 1, 2022
The contact owns a 2019 Mazda CX-9. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH on the interstate, the passenger’s side rear wheel well trim molding detached. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer and the contact was informed that the wheel well trim molding would be replaced. The parts were not yet available and the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The fai... Read more
Incident date: Sep 18, 2022
I was driving on the highway when my door came open. Now the door will not close.
Incident date: Sep 14, 2022
My Vehicle had a recall for corrosion on the rear frame. I brought it to the local Honda dealer on 9/14/2022 . it was picked up on 9/15/2022. The invoice stated they inspected the rear frame for rust and corrosion. I had told them there was a big hole in the the frame near the driver's rear wheel. I looked under the vehicle on 9/19/22 and the hole still remains. It is right by the jacking point o... Read more
Incident date: Sep 20, 2022
DOORS FILL UP WITH RAIN WATER AND WATER IS SLOSHING AROUND INSIDE DOOR FRAME. NEED DOORS REPLACED DUE TO ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS BEING DAMAGED BY MOISTURE CORROSION.
Incident date: Aug 19, 2022
I have a 2022 Telluride I purchased from the dealer in May/22 and after 3 months the windshield cracked starting from the bottom corner of driver side almost across the entire windshield. The crack happened while the car was parked in the garage overnight, I found later a small chip maybe caused by a pebble. I did some reasearch online and this same problem has been reported multiple times on K... Read more
Incident date: Sep 17, 2022
Sunroof shattered while driving on highway. Noise similar to a gun being fired, caused momentary disorientation; however, was able to keep vehicle on the road. No warning, no other vehicles around that could have kicked up a rock, debris, etc. Smooth conditions on the road (no potholes, bumps, etc.). Sunroof was in the tilt up position, side windows down, and rear window down - even temperature o... Read more
Incident date: Sep 2, 2022
The tract that the front seat move back or forth on are dangerous while cleaning or removing mats as the end of tracts are very sharp and can slice your hand when pulling mat out or just cleaning
1 injured
Incident date: Sep 20, 2022
My 2014 Jeep Compass is making vibrating noises, swerving moments and cracking sounds. Brought it to my mechanic, he found that the REAR SUBFRAME is rotted out. The FRONT SUBFRAME is also strating to pivot. Reading up on this issue it seems to be very common yet Chrysler has not made a recall for the safety of the passengers and driver and I was told by Chrysler that the extended warranty was only... Read more
Incident date: Sep 20, 2022
Toyota Tacoma was sprayed in 2020 for frame rust. Rust has began again on the frame. Also the suspension and behind the two rear wheels rust is rampant. Lots and lots of rust but no new holes since was sprayed. Pictures attached of the 2011 Toyota Tacoma with 68,000 miles.
Incident date: Sep 10, 2022
Unintentional acceleration - parked car crashed into garage wall, damaging front bumper and home structure. Have lost all faith in vehicle. Sensors and automatic brake failed. Car concerns have been reported and waiting 6-8 weeks for GMA to deem if it is eligible for an investigation. No loaner car offered despite being told NOT to drive the vehicle. No prior warnings. No one was home to drive the... Read more
Crash
CHRYSLER
TOWN AND COUNTRY
(2014) — STRUCTURE:BODY
Sep 19, 2022
Incident date: Jul 20, 2022
Right side passenger door will not open even when unlocked by push button or by pulling on handle. Can only exit side left side door, the traffic side. This could be dangerous as children or adults may exit out into traffic. The vehicle is available for inspection. Called the dealership and they said only 2016 models were under recall. They said this is a known “actuator problem”. They would n... Read more
LAND ROVER
DEFENDER
(2022) — STRUCTURE:BODY
Sep 19, 2022
Incident date: Sep 19, 2022
The drivers side A-pillar continues to fall off/come loose at high speeds. It happened on 2 times already resulting in around 20-inch body part falling off on the highway and flapping causing immediate pull over
Incident date: Aug 2, 2022
This car was stolen because the manufacturer neglected to install an immobilizer in the engine. The car was locked and parked in a secure location, and someone broke the window, opened the steering column and was able to start the car with simply a USB. This incident could have entirely been avoided if it weren’t for the negligence of Hyundai manufacturers for not installing a key component of t... Read more
Incident date: Aug 23, 2022
Excessive Corrison through out the frame.Was informed bu certified mechanic really it is unsafe to drive. What can I do I still owe money on this vehicle.
VOLKSWAGEN
PASSAT
(2016) — STRUCTURE:BODY
Sep 18, 2022
Incident date: Sep 17, 2022
GAS LEAKING INTO BACKSEAT SOAKING CUSHIONS, Passenger door body door whole stripped and door bolt loosen which could fall off if not tightened every 3 days
MERCEDES-BENZ
SL500
(2009) — STRUCTURE:BODY
Sep 18, 2022
Incident date: Sep 17, 2022
Yesterday 9/17/2022, while driving my 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL550 on the expressway with my wife as passenger, we heard and felt a very loud explosion. Shattered glass was entering the vehicle. I managed to pull off the expressway at the next exit. The retractable hardtop panoramic glass roof had exploded. Shattered glass fragments were all over the vehicle interior. Glass fragments also damaged th... Read more
Incident date: Sep 3, 2022
I am writing this to inform you of (4) safety issues in just the past year. Last August while driving in Massachusetts (I live in PA) I heard a strange noise. After pulling off the busy highway I found the bottom of my car dragging on the road. I had to find a place that sold duct tape as a temporary fix. Next problem was swollen lug nuts (never heard of such a thing). While getting new tires I... Read more
Incident date: Mar 15, 2021
Subframe on the vehicle at 90,000 was found to have SEVERE huge rotted holes in the subframe that is supporting the engine. This can allow the engine to drop out of the vehicle at any given moment and cost to repair is $1200 which is insane.
TOYOTA
HIGHLANDER
(2022) — STRUCTURE:BODY
Sep 17, 2022
Incident date: Jun 4, 2022
driver side mirror vibrates above 20mph which makes it harder to focus on the image, can lead to accidents.
MITSUBISHI
OUTLANDER
(2022) — STRUCTURE:BODY
Sep 17, 2022
Incident date: May 1, 2022
Two issues: 1: since the purchase of the vehicle the hood would bounce up and down while on the highway. The service team acknowledged this was a known issue and advised they would resolve. It has been 3 month with no resolution. 2: when the gas mileage drops below 30 miles left to empty the display changes to “—“ and no longer comunicates mileage left to empty.
Incident date: Sep 7, 2022
2020 Subaru Ascent Premium.. Rear lift gate at times will not open electronically, and sounds an “alarm” locking the mechanism which prevents it from being opened. The alarm and lockout does not stop until the battery is disconnected. The first time this occurred was at a Subaru Dealership, the second time was at a location where it was necessary for me to go home to my shop to get the battery... Read more
Incident date: Sep 17, 2022
It started as a popping noise while driving which evolved into a louder sound and I was able to feel it click with my feet as I was driving, and I couldn't pinpoint exactly what was causing the issue at first. After going to a mechanics and having them look at it the subframe of the car was absolutely covered in rust to the point where it was falling apart and I could see inside. The air condition... Read more
Incident date: Sep 17, 2022
My 2013 pearl white Kia’s paint is chipping all over it started about two years ago with a little spot and now it’s all over. Seems like every time I drive move comes off.
Incident date: Sep 13, 2020
My car is a 2017 Dodge Charger...Passenger side door panel is warp baddly...Driver minimal...notice it beginning June 2020...Warranty expire before it develop.
VOLKSWAGEN
GOLF
(2017) — STRUCTURE:BODY
Sep 16, 2022
Incident date: Sep 1, 2022
Driver's door latch failed and often will not latch the door closed. Door just bounces off the door frame lightly. Occasionally I've missed that this has happened and started driving with the door unlatched.
Incident date: Sep 1, 2019
I have a white 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. About 5 years after having the car, my cars paint started to peel and now rust. I talked to the dealer and they said the warranty for paint on my car is up. Recently I have discovered new articles, multiple facebook groups and forums discussing the same issue. When I drive around, almost all white Hyundai's are having a similar issue. Reached out to Hyun... Read more
Incident date: Oct 6, 2021
Paint peeling from hood and roof of car.
VOLKSWAGEN
ATLAS
(2021) — STRUCTURE:BODY
Sep 16, 2022
Incident date: Sep 16, 2022
I was driving my car and the moonroof exploded and shattered. Nothing his my car there were no cars in front of me, side of me, or behind me. There is no debris or any type of object. It is all over the internet about sunroofs and moonroofs exploding. The incident happened 09/16/2022.
Incident date: Jul 12, 2022
Plastic trim on my front driver side door is falling off. The plastic that is clipped and taped at the bottom of the door.
Incident date: Sep 15, 2022
2016 TOYOTA TACOMA. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO PAINT ON THE ROOF OF VEHICLE BEING DISENTEGRATED. THE CONSUMER STATED THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED, BUT DECLINED ANY ASSISTANCE.
MERCEDES-BENZ
C300
(2011) — STRUCTURE:BODY
Sep 15, 2022
Incident date: Aug 15, 2022
Rear subframe rusted to the point car is not drivable
Incident date: Sep 11, 2022
On Sept 11, 2022, we experienced a heavy rain shower while traveling along I64 westbound in VA. My 7 year old daughter in the back seat informed me the headliner was wet in the rear driver side corner. Upon further inspection the passenger side headliner rear corner was also wet. I inspected the top of the ruck, no damage was noted and the seals all appeared to be in place. There is a Jereco Hi... Read more
D AND A CUSTOM
CUSTOM TRAILER
(2022) — STRUCTURE:BODY
Sep 15, 2022
Incident date: May 23, 2022
During my second trip with my new 2022 trailer I was driving south on I-95 in South Carolina when the entire left panel of my cargo trailer blew off of the trailer. There was no prior damage to the trailer and the panel ripped from the trailer unexpectedly. The single metal panel is approximately 4 feet wide by 8 feet tall. The panel was not fastened to the front frame of the trailer. Not a sin... Read more
MITSUBISHI
LANCER
(2011) — STRUCTURE:BODY
Sep 15, 2022
Incident date: Jul 14, 2022
I got a service needed warning for the electric power steering and I lost all power steering... As it turned out, the rack and pinion was bad because the subframe rotted out where the rack and pinion mounts up and a custom built subframe and rack and pinion had to be installed on the car at a cost of almost $5,000...
Incident date: Mar 3, 2022
My 2005 Toyota Tacoma had a recall due to potential frame rusting. I brought my Truck to my local Toyota Dealership for the frame inspection as stated in the recall notice I received. The frame did not need to be replaced and at a later date the frame was sealed per Toyota's remedy. In March of 2022 I had an issue with my truck that required the gas tank to be removed. As it turned out there wa... Read more
Incident date: Sep 12, 2022
Door panel interior peeling off from door panel, causing issues with controls on the door.
LAND ROVER
DEFENDER
(2020) — STRUCTURE:BODY
Sep 15, 2022
Incident date: Aug 21, 2022
Driver's side A Pillar trim came loose at 75 mph on freeway and blew off the side of the car. Also pulled out mounting bolt for A Pillar Trim.
GMC
SIERRA 1500
(2010) — STRUCTURE:BODY
Sep 14, 2022
Incident date: Sep 14, 2022
Frame rusted out despite regular maintenance and cleaning. Rotted from the inside out, then spread to the wheel wells and bed. Crossmembers forming holes. Has gotten perpetually worse and is a well documented phenomenon by others online over the past 5 years.