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: Jun 5, 2026
The contact owns a 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLK350. The contact stated that after reversing out of the garage, there was a large rust puddle near the rear passenger’s side of the vehicle. While the contact's wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made an abnormally loud clunking sound. The driver returned to the residence, and the contact also noticed the clunking sound as the driver wa... Read more
Incident date: Dec 1, 2021
Noises started coming from suspension and I had an independent shop verify the issue. The lower control arm had separated from bushing and rubbing against subframe.
Incident date: Jul 25, 2026
I have continually attempted to resolve a recall on my vehicle however the manufacturer and local dealership is threatening unlawful vehicle seizure, refusing to explain recall remedy procedures, failing to follow listed rules procedures and laws related to recall and has attempting a bad-faith $400 credit to finance a new vehicle for unfixable structural safety recall." Two years of wasting ti... Read more
GMC
SIERRA 1500
(2022) - SUSPENSION
Aug 6, 2026
Incident date: Dec 3, 2025
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The rear subframe, specifically the passenger-side rear suspension mounting bracket, is failing due to severe, premature corrosion. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? My safety was put at extreme risk because a local authorized Honda dealership fraudulently closed out an activ... Read more
Incident date: Aug 2, 2026
I purchased my car on 3/23/26. Since delivery I have noticed that the car bounces at low speeds 20-30mph and the steering wheel vibrates at highway speeds 65 - 80mph. I have had the car to tesla service center 6 times since march. They have replaced all 4 tires, found and replaced a bent wheel (rim) on the passenger side. Then this last visit they replaced the passenger right wheel hub. They claim... Read more
Incident date: Aug 4, 2026
The rear coil spring snapped with no warning. My safety was at risk because the spring broke and collapsed on the suspension while driving on a tollway. The bottom of the spring that was snapped off completely which presents a safety risk to others as it becomes a heavy sharp steel projectile flying into traffic. The problem has been confirmed by a service center and it is a large issue as the par... Read more
Incident date: Jul 28, 2026
TRANSACTION FRAUD & SYSTEM BYPASS:The vehicle was purchased from an authorized franchise dealer in January 2026. Following an investigation, it was discovered that the dealership's finance desk executed a "split-paperwork" scheme to override an automated delivery compliance hold. The dealership utilized my actual 2.0L Badlands VIN on banking documents, but electronically transmitted a completely d... Read more
Crash
1 injured
GMC
HUMMER EV PICKUP
(2022) - SUSPENSION
Aug 5, 2026
Incident date: Aug 5, 2026
The contact leased a 2024 Dodge Charger EV. The contact stated that after the passenger’s side rear tire became deflated, the vehicle was taken to a tire shop, and the contact was informed that there was severe inner tire wear that had caused the tire to deflate. The technician stated that the tires were cambered inward while driving due to the weight of the vehicle. Upon inspecting the vehicle,... Read more
POLESTAR
POLESTAR 4
(2026) - SUSPENSION
Aug 5, 2026
Incident date: Aug 5, 2026
This complaint concerns the structural frame and chassis assembly of this fifth-wheel trailer, specifically the upper deck/front bedroom area and supporting structure. While operating the trailer within the manufacturer's published weight limits (GVWR: 20,000 lbs; Cargo Carrying Capacity: 4,258 lbs), we experienced repeated structural movement and frame flex during normal highway towing. Over tim... Read more
Incident date: Jul 1, 2026
The contact owns a 2017 Ford F-150. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V365000 (Structure, Suspension). The contact stated that while driving approximately 45 MPH around a bend, the rear wheels spun out, causing the contact to lose control of the vehicle. The front end and rear then struck the center median, and the vehicle stopped in the middle of the highway. The conta... Read more
Crash
SUBARU
TRAILSEEKER
(2026) - SUSPENSION
Aug 5, 2026
Incident date: Aug 2, 2026
I took my vehicle on for am oil change and the mechanic brought to my attention that the front subframe of the vehicle had serious rot and rust. This lower subframe ties the front control arms together and other structural components, which is concerning with how fast this component has degraded. When researching this online, this appears to be a common issue on 2015 and later Transit vans, to t... Read more
VOLKSWAGEN
TIGUAN
(2014) - SUSPENSION
Aug 5, 2026
Incident date: Apr 20, 2026
The control arms are defective on this vehicle for the second time. I began hearing a clunking sound when I would turned the vehicle in July 2026. When the sound got louder and sharp left turns felt less controlled, I took the vehicle to a local independent tire repair shop immediately. They told me the left control arm was cracking badly, so I made an appointment with Tesla. Tesla is currently re... Read more
Incident date: Aug 5, 2026
During an inspection of my 2011 Audi Q5 at Audi Burlington, severe corrosion was discovered on the rear subframe, which supports rear suspension components. The corrosion was substantially worse than normal surface rust and may compromise the structural integrity of the subframe and suspension mounting points. The condition was not readily visible during ordinary vehicle use because portions of th... Read more
Incident date: Jul 10, 2026
VW 2019 Jetta R-line had rear coil spring failure (cracked) at 55,000mi. VW did have a NTSB recall on 2019 Jettas, however the VIN was not included. At 107,000mi the rear coil spring on the other side failed (cracked). VW dealer indicated replacements are on back-order and they don't know when they will be available. These failed coil springs put the driver/passengers at risk of loss of steering... Read more
Incident date: Aug 4, 2026
The contact owns a 2019 Honda Pilot. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V365000 (Structure, Suspension); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while driving approximately 20-25 MPH from a complete stop, the vehicle partially spun out. The contact was able to stop the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure could hav... Read more
Incident date: Aug 5, 2026
At 38,000 miles the right sway bar stabilizer linker failed and required replacement. This was inspected by a manufacturer associated dealer mechanic. No other symptoms or warning lamps prior to the failure.
Incident date: Jul 15, 2026
Rear subframe corrosion on this vehicle. I am in a winter road salt region, the materials used for this vehicle's subframe are not compatible with consistent driving in this region. Similar vehicles (not mine?) were subject to a recall for the front subframe, but nothing for the rear. This rear subframe issues caused multiple failures of virtually every component of the rear suspension - contro... Read more
Incident date: Jul 30, 2026
Rear subframe corrosion on this vehicle. I am in a winter road salt region, the materials used for this vehicle's subframe are not compatible with consistent driving in this region. Similar vehicles (not mine?) were subject to a recall for the front subframe, but nothing for the rear. This rear subframe issues caused multiple failures of virtually every component of the rear suspension - contro... Read more
Incident date: Aug 3, 2026
Vehicle can become difficult to steer in certain situations
Incident date: Aug 4, 2026
Creaking noise coming from front of car when going over speed bumps or driving through a dip at low speeds. Tesla SC says normal but many others have replaced lateral and compliance links and issues has been solved. Known issue and raises a safety concern over safety of suspension.
Incident date: Aug 3, 2026
my 2021 tesla model 3 required replacement of both front upper control arms due to premature wear. the vehicle developed suspension noise, and an inspection determined both upper control arm assemblies with ball joints needed replacement. the repair cost was $1,845, including a wheel alignment. i am aware of numerous similar owner reports involving premature front suspension component failures in ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 27, 2026
A day or two before the incident a warning displayed on the computer that was very vague. I didn't notice any issues with the steering or suspension at the time. I believe I scheduled an appointment but it was two weeks out at the Tesla service center. On June 4 as I pulled into my driveway I heard a noise and then struggled to get the car into the driveway completely and avoided the garage altoge... Read more
Incident date: Jul 1, 2025
I was driving on the NYS thru way with my family and my rear suspension coil came out while we were driving. The part was not rusted or looked defected. When I took it to the dealership they said a recall for this issue had been repaired in June of 2023 prior to me owning it. I purchased the vehicle on October of 2024. I called corporate and they said there is nothing they will do for me. I paid $... Read more
Incident date: Aug 4, 2026
The vehicle has had a suspension problem since purchasing the dealership has not been able to determine the issue after replacing the axle,struts, low arm control,motor mount now the state the steering wheel rack
Incident date: Jul 27, 2026
During a mandatory Virginia State Safety Inspection, the vehicle failed due to severe structural corrosion and perforation of the rear subframe. Because these components notoriously corrode from the inside out, the fact that the rust is externally visible and structurally failing indicates an advanced, catastrophic material breakdown.The rear subframe serves as the foundational load-bearing anchor... Read more
Incident date: Feb 2, 2026
While parking my Tesla in my driveway, I suddenly lost the ability to steer the vehicle. After exiting the vehicle, I noticed that the front driver’s side wheel was locked. I looked underneath the vehicle and observed that components of the front suspension had collapsed. The vehicle could not be driven and required towing to a Tesla Service Center. Tesla repaired the vehicle under the manufact... Read more
Incident date: Mar 13, 2026
-Left rear spring broke from normal use. -safety: dealership said van was unsafe to drive -part is on backorder from Honda with no estimated production date. In order to get van repaired a used spring out of a junked Odyssey was installed
Incident date: May 13, 2026
New Tow Link replacement from recall 20S62 damage my new Tires. New redesign Toe links are unable to hold alignment and are damaging tires prematurely. I have called the dealer that performed the Service (Citrus Motors in Ontario California) and spoke with Service Manager Cesar. I told him the problem I was having to find a solution, he could not help me. He suggested I pay $280 for a diagnostic a... Read more
Incident date: Aug 3, 2026
The contact owns a 2022 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle went into the death wobble. The contact pulled over to the side of the road to inspect the vehicle before driving to the residence. The failure had occurred three times. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the f... Read more
Incident date: Jul 21, 2026
The contact owns a 2023 Indian Pursuit Dark Horse Motorcycle. The contact stated that while riding approximately 30-45 MPH, the front end of the motorcycle was violently shaking. There was no warning light illuminated. The motorcycle was taken to several dealers, and the failure was confirmed after the motorcycle was ridden; however, the cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacture... Read more
Incident date: Mar 11, 2026
Left lower control arm link failure. No collisions had occurred in the history of the vehicle, and small sounds were heard prior to failure, with the total failure sound being obvious. No system malfunction warnings were displayed.
Incident date: Aug 4, 2026
I own a Tesla Model 3 and have been experiencing concerning front suspension and steering issues that appear to be worsening over time. While driving and especially during low speed turns, parking and maneuvering, the front suspension produces loud screeching, squeaking, and rubbing noises. The steering has also become noticeably stiffer that normal at times, and the noises can be felt through the... Read more
Incident date: Aug 4, 2026
On March 25, 2026, an authorized Ford dealership in Florida performed a safety recall involving the rear suspension toe links. The recall addressed a condition that Ford states can result in loss of steering control and increased crash risk. After the recall was completed, I drove approximately 1,200 miles home believing the safety defect had been corrected. After returning home, I began experien... Read more
Incident date: Jun 20, 2024
The front upper control arms. Causing poor steering and unbearable loud creaks when turning wheel. Mobile tesla tech confirmed upper control arm
Incident date: May 15, 2026
While driving normally at approximately 55 mph on the highway, the vehicle suffered a sudden, catastrophic, and spontaneous structural failure of the rear driver-side suspension and drivetrain. Without striking any road debris, potholes, or other vehicles, the entire driver-side rear wheel, wheel assembly, and structural axle components completely fractured and ejected from the moving vehicle. An ... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Jun 15, 2026
I am filing a safety complaint against Scott Stark’s South Point Hyundai for selling me a vehicle with an active open safety recall, a blown transmission, an A/C failure, and a dry-rotted tire. Before returning the car for service under a promised 1,000-mile warranty, my sister, who has worked for Corporate Hyundai for 15 years, helped me conduct a full intake baseline inspection at her dealersh... Read more
Incident date: Jul 15, 2026
On July 9, 2025, while making a right turn at about 15 mph on a standard road, the two front-left bolts fell out, causing the entire bracket and lateral link assembly to detach. The vehicle became inoperable and had to be towed for repairs. Not long after, on September 29, 2025, while making a left turn at 20 mph, the two front-right bolts also fell out, and the bracket and lateral link assembly d... Read more
Incident date: Aug 3, 2026
I received a letter from Acura about a safety recall on the subframe. My car has been making a creaking noise and so I called the number on the letter. The guy gave me the number to Acura, Brookfield WI. I called and talked to someone there today, I think his name was John. I told him I wanted my car checked for the recall issue and I am worried about the noise. He said a subframe won't cause squ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 30, 2025
This issue occurred on August 02, 2026 at around 3pm. I was parked and put my 2023 Tesla Model Y in reverse to give myself enough room to drive forward from being parked on road next to my house. While going into reverse, I heard a really loud bang noise coming from under the front section of the car. I put the car in park and got out to take a look around. At first I thought I had hit something w... Read more
Incident date: Jul 29, 2026
The bushings on my vehicles front suspension completely failed at 47k miles and required replacement. The vehicle was under warranty and the manufacturer replaced them free of charge, but I'd heard that this component is being investigated. To be clear, the front lower lateral links and compliance arms all had to be replaced.
Incident date: Jun 20, 2026
Electronic power control issue caused the vehicle to loose power steering. After starting and driving the vehicle an alert message showed up saying chassis malfunction and power steering issues. Vehicle was stopped and re-started but the issue didn't go away. BMW confirmed there was a malfunction with the EPS similar to the NHTSA bulletin 11V341000. Vehicle was manufactured during the period the r... Read more
Incident date: Jan 3, 2026
I took my Vehicle to Tesla service for battery not charging. Service did a vehicle inspection and noted the following Concern: Upon Vehicle inspection, Found front suspension control arms worn and at a charge to me repaired with the below notes.. Repair Notes: Correction Links - Lateral - Lower - Front - Pair (Remove & Replace) - Remove and Replace ALSO repaired Correction Links - Compliance - ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 1, 2026
When I drove the car, All most all light on the dashboard are on onthe road, and when I stop and tried to go, the car is somewhat not controled. I immidieatly went to dealership and dignosed P2764 CVT balve problem. And they add wheel bearing is problem. Subaru noticed these problems but my 88,278 mile 2016 forester has all the lights on and it was very scared and it took 4400 dollars for fixing.
CHEVROLET
SILVERADO 1500
(2008) - SUSPENSION
Aug 3, 2026
Incident date: Aug 2, 2026
Driver side lower control arm lost two bolts, can not drive.
Incident date: Jul 30, 2026
Noise came from front left wheel while driving around a turn. Later the same day another noise when turning the wheel when leaving a parking spot. Steering felt strange. It was late at night, so left the vehicle until the morning. In the morning, discovered a large bolt in front of the vehicle. The front left wheel was turned differently than the right front wheel. Had to spend almost $400 t... Read more
Incident date: Jul 8, 2026
Failure of the front lower lateral link and compliance link assembly. A creaking noise when steering at low speeds prompted me to take the vehicle to be checked out at a Tesla repair shop. The vehicle required a complete replacement of these parts at an independent cost of $1,900. I have the line-item proof of parts and labor.
TOYOTA
LAND CRUISER HYBRID
(2026) - SUSPENSION
Aug 3, 2026
Incident date: Jun 4, 2026
When driving in a parking lot a bolt came out on the drivers side suspension. The body of the car dropped on the tire and I could no longer drive the car. I was only going about 5mph but if I was going faster I can see this putting somebodies safety at risk. When I took it to Tesla they said is was not under warranty and had me replace the lower lateral link on the driver and passenger side o... Read more
Incident date: Jul 23, 2026
Component that failed was the lower lateral link. There was no loss of control but there was a sound going over any uneven surface. Upon bringing the vehicle to the Tesla dealership they recommended a replacement of the upper and lower control arm on both the driver and passenger side. This greatly increased the cost of the repair to a total of $2356.84
Incident date: Nov 25, 2025
The rear spring suffered a catastrophic failure, breaking while driving with occupants inside vehicle. The rear coil springs suffer from poor materials or paint protection causing premature failure and rust.
Incident date: Aug 3, 2026
Over a period of several weeks, the front suspension increasingly made noise (squeaking and groaning) and felt loose when turning and going over bumps. The front control arms were replaced 10/31/24. The problem has begun recurring over the last few months, with the same noise occurring and progressively worsening.