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 49,170 complaints - component: SUSPENSION
Incident date: Feb 1, 2023
When I accelerate over 55 mph, the front end of my jeep shakes violently, so violently I can barely hold onto the steering wheel. When driving in the fast lane on the freeway, going 65-70 mph, it shakes so badly that I almost lose control of the vehicle. I am fearful that one day, I will crash and hurt (or kill) myself, my occupants, and/or other persons in surrounding vehicles. I have reache... Read more
Incident date: Jan 30, 2023
while driving on highway at 70 mph speed limit hit a pothole and vehicle started shaking violently had to slow to under 30 mph for it to stop. Took to dealer they said they would replace steering dampener. Waited 2 months for part to come in took to work following morning hit another pothole at 70 mph and shook so bad it blurred my vision had to slow to under 30 to get it to stop. At that point al... Read more
HEARTLAND
TRAIL RUNNER
(2022) - SUSPENSION
Feb 1, 2023
Incident date: Jan 26, 2023
While braking at lower speed the driver's side lower control arm broke out causing the car to pull very hard to the left. Both lower control arms and the subframe had to be replaced.
Incident date: Jan 23, 2023
Front suspension creaking noise. Front suspension creaking noise during suspension cycles (going over speed bumps or entering on an inclined surface) due to I believe Coil Spring not formed correctly and rubs against the perch of the strut or other issues/manufacturer defects with the front suspension. See also technical bulletin for 2012-2019 Passat stating similar issues: https://static.nhtsa.... Read more
Incident date: Dec 12, 2022
The welded retainer of the front bushing on the right side lower (control) arm had rusted through. This allowed the control arm to separate from the frame and the right front wheel to turn outward (while I was traveling straight ahead). The drive shaft was pulled from the transmission and some parts hit the ground. Luckily, I was approaching a stop sign and traveling at less than 30 miles per h... Read more
Incident date: Jan 22, 2023
Vehicle's front end violently shakes harmonically side to side when driving over 50 mph upon hitting uneven surfaces on highway and interested. When this occurs, the driver loses the ability to safely steer and must brake which is also unsafe to do on the highway or interstate. The harmonic vibration resonates until the speed is reduced to approximately 35 mph.
Incident date: Jan 31, 2023
Rear tires when striking a pot hole create a loud noise in the rear of the vehicle on the side the tire strikes the pothole. Ford took me on a test drive on a brand new explorer hybrid with 26 miles on it and related it makes the same noise and at this time there is no fix in place.
Incident date: Nov 13, 2022
The contact owns a 2015 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle the braking system was erroneously activated, causing the brakes to engage without the brake pedal being depressed. Additionally, while driving at various speeds, the vehicle would drift to the right. The contact stated that there was also an abnormal odor of fuel present inside the cabin of the vehicle. The vehi... Read more
Incident date: Jan 20, 2023
Car accident put at risk to not be safe and defend myself with no air bag malfunction body suspension up to 4 car incident in major intersection. No warning lamps that appeared.
Crash
FIRESTONE
DESTINATION LE3
(9999) - SUSPENSION
Jan 31, 2023
Incident date: Jan 29, 2023
The contact leased a 2018 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated while driving approximately 60-70 MPH, the vehicle experienced death wobble. While riding over a bump in the roadway, the vehicle vibrated and shook abnormally. The contact was able to pull over. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer however, the mechanic was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehic... Read more
Incident date: Jun 16, 2022
Since 6/2022 and again 7/2022, 10/25/22 1/31/23 Constantly stating service error codes for stabiltrak, antilock brakes, and brake assist not functioning and need service urgently. However when I take it to the dealership they find nothing wrong and further investigated at another Cadillac dealership they also state they found nothing. These errors continue to pop up intermittently and my Cadillac... Read more
Incident date: Jan 17, 2023
The rear subframe is corroded with rust to the point of about to break into pieces. I did not have control of the vehicle and could not drive above 40mph, sudden pull to one side while braking, loose steering. I could have had a wreck if the subframe would have broke before taking the vehicle in to be inspected by an independent service center. I live over an hour to the nearest Mazda dealership... Read more
Incident date: Sep 16, 2020
The contact owns a 2018 Mazda CX-3. The contact stated that while driving, the vehicle was moving from left to right. The contact stated that the brakes were making an abnormal scraping sound. There was an abnormal sound coming from the engine. The local dealer was not contacted. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted... Read more
Incident date: Jan 13, 2020
I have been experiencing the death wobble ever since I bought the Jeep. I’ve brought it back to the dealer 2 times and they just told me to get different tires. I spent 1,500 on new tires and still experience the same thing. When I go over bumps or bridge seams on the freeway, my entire front end wobble out of control almost causing me to crash every time. My kids are terrified to drive in the j... Read more
Incident date: Sep 15, 2022
Encountered violent shaking of whole truck traveling on I95. Transitioned from a bridge to road surface and the whole vehicle began to violently shake - Loosing all control of steering & braking. Released gas pedal and slowed to shoulder. Was informed later this is a known issue with all Ford Superduty trucks with solid front axle.
Incident date: Jan 30, 2022
I bought brand new in 2018 a 2018 ford f250 this vehicle now has 39,000 miles and no upgrades of any kind other than a 5th wheel hitch installed in the bed. after going above 45mph and hitting a bump I get a massive wheel wobble that will only stop if I pull to the side and stop, this has happened 10-12 times since i have owned it. I do not believe I need to pay for this because i paid 65,000 doll... Read more
Incident date: Jan 27, 2023
The contact owns a 2002 Ford Windstar. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V385000 (Suspension) and 11V030000 (Structure) however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issu... Read more
Incident date: Jan 26, 2023
No warning. Driving down the road at 45 or above taking a curve and hitting a bump in the road the jeep starts bouncing and the steering starts jerking. I have been informed that there is a law suit stating that this is because of front suspension steering damper.
CHEVROLET
SILVERADO 1500
(2020) - SUSPENSION
Jan 30, 2023
Incident date: May 15, 2021
The contact owns a 2020 Jeep Gladiator. The contact stated while driving approximately 50-60 MPH, the vehicle experienced the death wobble after driving over a bump on the roadway. 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 28,460.
Incident date: Jan 4, 2023
The left side of rear subframe has rusted out. The right side had been repaired by welding by a previous owner. The damage is still present and can be inspected. The broken bracket is right next to the gas tank and can possibly contact or dent the tank during a hard break or collision. This is a common problem with many people expressing this online and at the 3rd party repair shops. No warning si... Read more
Incident date: Jan 27, 2023
The contact called on behalf of a client who owns a 2010 Mazda Mazda6. The contact stated that the steering wheel failed to operate as designed and the vehicle was pulling either to the left or the right. The vehicle was diagnosed that the rear passenger’s side cross member was rusted and needed to be replaced. The dealer was notified of the failure and the contact was advised that the rear cros... Read more
Incident date: Jan 30, 2023
The contact owns a 2022 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving approximately 10 MPH, a rattling noise was heard coming from the rear of the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer on various occasions; however, the failure could not be duplicated. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure was recurring and that the r... Read more
Incident date: Sep 1, 2022
Unknown, I received a notice in the mail this week from Reynolds, et Al. V. FCA Us LLC, [XXX] for 2018 Jeep wrangler recall for front end/suspension dampening defect that causes the steering wheel and front suspension to shake at highway speeds. I just had this repaired on 12/17/2022. The notice in the mail states if I paid out of pocket for these repairs I will get reimbursed www.FCA recall reimb... Read more
Incident date: Jan 3, 2023
I changed out my sway bar links cause I keep hearing a klunk sound ( metal on metal) and noticed how rusted and brittle the rear control arms. I'm afraid to drive the car.
CHEVROLET
SILVERADO 1500
(2021) - SUSPENSION
Jan 29, 2023
Incident date: Jan 29, 2023
So I have been having issues with my truck losing oil. My dealership told me that Walmart made an issue with the oil filter causing it to leak oil out. After the dealership corrected the issue. I was on my way to the store this morning it was damp so I was having a lot of traction issues. Got to the gas station checked tires, no issue with them. Temperature is above freezing. Just thought maybe it... Read more
Incident date: Sep 30, 2022
Severe vibration at highway speeds between 60-80 mph on intermittent basis. Low frequency vibration at speeds 40-50 mph on intermittent basis. 10/11/2022 Reviewed by service at Wasatch Front Kia, no issues found. Problem continues. 12/16/2022 Reviewed by Costco Tire Center, Draper, UT. Screw/nail found in tire. Tire repaired. Wheel/tire balance performed. Problem reduced but not eliminate... Read more
Incident date: Jan 29, 2023
car not able to be driven rear subframe had completely rusted out and rear light housing is burn
HYUNDAI
VELOSTER N
(2021) - SUSPENSION
Jan 28, 2023
Incident date: Oct 26, 2022
1700 miles In the odo . Steering feels as if it gets stuck on high way speeds . Having to force it to keep the steering in the center . Definitely not normal . Started noticing it about 1500 on the odo only getting worse. Almost feels like the car is not aligned . Properly . Brand new car not staying straight is a concern of steering rack issues . Common for this car . Scared to report it to deal... Read more
Incident date: Nov 21, 2022
The vehicle’s wheel, brake, suspension, and electrical systems have all failed since June 2022. The wheel and suspension systems have been attempted to be repaired multiple times by two different Chrysler Dodge dealerships. To no avail, no resolve. In fact while I was driving the highway after picking up the vehicle this last time, the tailgate opened and triggered the backup camera emergency br... Read more
Incident date: Jan 28, 2023
When breaking at high speeds, the car feels like I will lose control of it. Has happened a few times and I thought I was going to hit the neighboring car. Took it to a repair shop and found out that the rear driver side subframe Is completely rotted out and the rear control arm is hanging. The car only has about 97,500 miles on it, has not been driven in high salt areas, and doesn’t have any oth... Read more
Incident date: Jan 28, 2023
Heard popping under car while driving noticed there appeared to be an issue with rear control arm removed rear tires and found both rear control arms to be broken and rubbing frame one free hanging and the other in a bind
Incident date: Jan 26, 2023
This is to file a former complaint against jeep for the “death wobble” I experience every time I get on the highway and hit a bump. I lose control over the vehicle. The dealership said the parts to fix the problem are on back order and cannot even be order for up to 6 months.
Incident date: Jan 1, 2023
Driving down the road the steering gear box will randomly quit, could be doing 70 mph down the expressway and not be able to swerve, turn or avoid an accident. Has happened to me three times. Also the steering free play on these vehicles is absolutely insane and very difficult to keep the vehicle in its lane going down the road. I have been pulled over by police three times for “swerving” and ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 27, 2022
When you hit a bump at road speeds (45 mph+), the steering wheel shakes wildly and you have to slow down immediately to avoid losing control. First happened about 12 months ago. Was not a common issue until more recently. Now it seems to be nearly every time I drive it. Ongoing issue now.
Incident date: Jan 25, 2023
Completely rotted & rusted sub-frame. Caused braking/stability/steering issues and was completely undriveable. Cost $2300 to fix, another $1000 for car rental as well as lost time at work. There have also been many reports of this problem with other drivers of the same model of vehicle. NO warning lamps or messages whatsoever, only knew the level of damage once I brought it into auto shop.
Incident date: Oct 21, 2019
death wobble at 70MPH Steering dampener had been replaced by Jeep a couple of years ago. Death wobble is back. this must be addressed
Incident date: Jan 17, 2023
Took truck to Mac Haik here in Houston to perform the recall.The jam nut on drag link was welded,which was not a fix.Went back after being told truck can't be aligned with the drag link being welded.Was told I'd have to pay out of pocket for the weld to be cut,which sense have led to other issues with the front suspension. Attached is docs concerning this matter .....I been having a open claim wit... Read more
Incident date: Jan 8, 2023
The ball joint and cv axle broke making me wreck. I had no control of the steering.
Crash
1 injured
Incident date: Nov 23, 2022
I have had my 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe for approximately 14 months and have a little over 16,000 miles. My vehicle is now experiencing what is commonly known as the "Jeep Death Wobble". The vehicle will begin to shake violently, especially at higher speeds. It has become nearly impossible to control and is an ongoing issue. My local dealership has been unable and unwilling to fix the problem rap... Read more
Incident date: Jan 26, 2023
The contact owns a 2012 Ford F-250. The contact stated upon making a turn, the wheel seized, and the vehicle failed to move. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the front passenger’s side axle shaft had fractured at the wheel. The dealer diagnosed that the outer shaft and seals needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired... Read more
Incident date: Jan 26, 2021
Issue with my rear sub frame rotting out due to rust almost causing a very bad accident in a hard braking situation
CHRYSLER
PACIFICA PLUG-IN HYBRID
(2018) - SUSPENSION
Jan 26, 2023
Incident date: Dec 20, 2022
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Rear subframe is rusted out and has holes in it. Yes it is avaialble for inspection. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Loss of control and not safe to drive with a broken rear subframe. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance repre... Read more
Incident date: Oct 11, 2022
The contact owns a 2004 Porsche 911. The contact stated while driving approximately 45 MPH he heard a loud creaking sound coming from the front-end. The contact stated that he was entering the highway and the sound became louder while speeding to merge. The contact stated that after driving over some slight imperfections in the roadway, the front-end started pulling to the left and right with forc... Read more
Incident date: Oct 1, 2022
the brakes are constantly binding up due to rust and need replaced, recently ABS brake lines rusted off causing me to miss a stop sign, very dangerous, Upper rear control arm mount rusted and cracked completely off causing steering and braking problems and had to be replaced to even use this vehicle, , The front rack has been replaced due to excessive rust of lines and fittings, same with transmis... Read more
Incident date: Dec 22, 2022
The contact owns a 2019 Ford F-450. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the vehicle was shaking uncontrollably from side to side; almost causing the vehicle to crash into another vehicle. The contact was able to pull over on the side of the road and waited for the vehicle to stop shaking. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 55... Read more
Incident date: Jan 15, 2023
I have a 2018 F350 with about 60k miles, otherwise excellent condition. Problem started about 2 months ago (around Nov 2022) or about 1 month after the last shop maintenance visit. Description: Coming home from work with driving speed around 50-60 mph the front end started shaking strongly. Had to slow down quite a bit to get it under control or stop shaking. The incident has been repeated on othe... Read more
Incident date: Jan 22, 2023
My 2011 c300 has a rotted rear subframe making the car not able to be driven. It has major ,life threatening, costly damage and this issue already has a recall all over the world but not in the United States.
Incident date: Nov 9, 2022
When I hit a bump with this truck the steering shakes violently. I brought to ford and they said it is a steering dampner and it is a recalled part and they would fix it as a recall however they said they dont have the part and they dont know when the part will be available. I am now left with an undriveable truck and no one can tell me when it can be fixed.
Incident date: Jan 23, 2023
Rear crossmember subframe rusted through. Front crossmember subframe rusting. Vehicle unsafe for driving