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 117,775 complaints - component: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Incident date: Jan 19, 2026
On Star module failure with severe backorder on parts
Incident date: Dec 8, 2025
While driving the car the car will suddenly stop working, it will be unable to accelerate. When this happens a multitude of alerts display on the screen. The car is very dangerous to drive and I’m concerned someone may die if this car is not recalled for safety.
Incident date: Mar 4, 2026
On three occasions when I have started the truck, there is a deafening sound from the speaker system that sounds like a pop with glass shattering. Then it had a loud static sound that can't be silenced and the volume button does nothing. After turning the truck off for 5-10 minutes the problem resolves, though it does continue for several minutes after turning the truck off.
Incident date: Feb 4, 2026
Rear climate control system fails to provide cooled air to the second and third rows during normal vehicle operation. Front vents produce cold air while rear vents blow warm to hot air despite temperature settings at minimum, high fan speed, and recirculation enabled. The condition has been present since vehicle delivery and has persisted despite three repair attempts by an authorized dealership.... Read more
Incident date: Dec 31, 2025
Starting about a year and a half ago, my backup camera would either say “camera is unavailable, contact dealership” or be upside down or some sort of distorted image. Sometimes the camera works. It poses a risk to me and others.sometimes the camera will cut out and go black after I have started backing up with it. No other warning lights have come on. Other ford edges have been recalled for t... Read more
Incident date: Mar 1, 2026
On March 19, 2026 around 830AM EST, the vehicle turned off while I was driving around ~40mph. I lost all power while on a busy street and I was unable to move the car to the side of the road. The car would not shift into drive or neutral, and therefore remained in the middle of the road until a tow truck had to flatbed it to the Cadillac dealership. The L87 recall on this vehicle was performed in... Read more
Incident date: Sep 23, 2025
Good afternoon, I am an owner of a 2002 Lincoln Nautilus. I wanted to report an electrical/battery issue with the vehicle that started a year and a half ago. In the past year and a half I have had 2 battery replacements with the most recent one being changed end of December of 2025 and in early March the battery went again so it's not even 3 months that it lasted. The battery completely dies a... Read more
Incident date: Sep 19, 2024
I hear a crackling or a popping sound coming from the windshield area as I’m driving. It is irregular and going over bumps seems to trigger it but yesterday as I was driving on a smooth highway with no vehicles nearby I heard a deafeningly loud crack sound. Then I noticed a tiny crack in the windshield. The sound was so loud that I considered it a potential accident inducing distraction as it re... Read more
Incident date: Feb 2, 2026
The Panoramic Sunroof spontaneous combusted traveling 75 mph on the interstate. No debris, other vehicles, or overpasses in sight. The explosion and raining glass poses a safety concern. The vehicle is currently in the shop being inspected by the manufacturer, repair shop, insurance adjusters trying to decide who is going to cover the random exploding panoramic sunroof. If government environme... Read more
1 injured
Incident date: Mar 17, 2026
I have my vehicle at the dealership to check a ticking noise from the 5.7L engine in my truck. I was told that there are broken exhaust bolts causing the noise. I see online that this is a common issue and that there is a recall for this issue, but my vehicle is not included in the recall list. I feel that the recall should cover my vehicle as well. Since it is the same issue of the current recall... Read more
Incident date: Jan 31, 2026
Hello, my name is [XXX] , and I had a recall performed on my 2016 Ram Eco Truck 3.0L (FCA US Recall ID 66A) at Dewey Dodge Chrysler Jeep in [XXX] , following a recall notice dated June 28, 2023. On March 17, 2026, while driving on the interstate, I experienced a sudden and severe loss of engine power, which nearly resulted in an accident; the dashboard displayed a "Service Electronic Throttle Cont... Read more
Incident date: Jan 1, 2026
I believe the issue is related to something connected to the AC system or a component underneath the hood. The exact part that malfunctioned has not been confirmed. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. My safety and the safety of others were put at risk because some kind of leak or fumes were being sent into the car through the AC vents, causing myself and others in the vehicle t... Read more
Incident date: Nov 4, 2025
I had a safety recall for the ABS brake module which was taken in. I was told twice one time the part they did not know when it would arrive. I kept calling. It was very hard to get a hold of the dealership Chrysler Dodge ram country and Fort Stockton, Texas. Called again last Friday conveniently. The part had been incorrectly ordered and that day it was available. They were going to have a tech r... Read more
Incident date: Mar 18, 2026
While driving, the steering wheel suddenly became stiff and difficult to turn, making it hard to control the vehicle. This happened unexpectedly and created a serious safety risk, as I could have lost control and caused an accident. At the same time, the braking response did not feel normal, which made the situation even more dangerous. This issue has occurred despite previous repair attempts, a... Read more
Incident date: Mar 18, 2026
consuming oil a quart every 2-3 weeks sonata hyundai in 2000 miles 3 quarts of oil were used. what happens when the motor locks up from be extremely low on oil. Possible accident! I cannot expect my wife to be checking the oil level every time she drives.
Incident date: Feb 28, 2026
I am writing to formally report an issue regarding Safety Recall 24S02 on my 2019 Ford Explorer, which is incorrectly shown as completed by Cornerstone Ford in Elk River, Minnesota. This recall involves the exterior A‑pillar trim on 2011–2019 Ford Explorer vehicles and is a documented Ford safety campaign (24S02 / 24V031). According to Ford’s records and Cornerstone Ford’s reporting, Reca... Read more
Incident date: Mar 2, 2026
The driver side door latch is defective. I’ve often been locked in or out of my vehicle. Obviously the main door on the vehicle. Many times i have to climb over the center console to exit my vehicle. What if I’m in an accident or my car catches fire, I can’t get out. Leaving me trapped. Or if I’m in danger and need to get in my car but I’m locked out. Often since latch doesn’t function... Read more
Incident date: Mar 4, 2026
Our car paint started peeling out of no where and very bad. I just found out that it is a manufacturing issue with the bonding of the paint.
Incident date: Mar 14, 2026
I am reporting a vehicle fire involving my 2008 BMW X3, which had an active safety recall for the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve heater (Recall Campaign No. 22V-119). This recall identifies a risk of short circuiting, overheating, and potential fire. On February 27, 2026, I contacted BMW after discovering multiple active recalls on my vehicle. I specifically asked whether the vehicle ... Read more
Fire
Incident date: Nov 13, 2025
I had this truck as brand new for approximately 24 hours when it had a major failure. It had 450 miles on it at time of purchase, but was sold as new. While driving at 45MPH it had a check engine light, service power steering message, lost power steering, lane departure system failure, and reduced power amongst several other lights on the dash. I limped the truck into a gas station parking lot. Af... Read more
Incident date: Mar 13, 2026
Power Steering and stabilitrack keeps popping off on my dashboard. Took it to service at Chevy dealer but they couldn’t seems to find any problem even when they see the issue.
Incident date: Feb 21, 2026
rear camera doesn't work--also theres a problem with the rack and pinion
GMC
SIERRA 1500
(2024) - UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Mar 18, 2026
Incident date: Mar 2, 2026
I am reporting a safety defect involving my Mazda CX-90 with approximately 1,400 miles. The vehicle emits strong chemical fumes into the passenger cabin during normal operation. I first noticed it the night I purchased the vehicle when I was driving it home. The fumes occur both with and without the HVAC system in use. Once present, the odor lingers inside the cabin for an extended period, even a... Read more
Incident date: Jan 19, 2026
I WAS GOING UP A STEEP NARROW ROAD, A BIG TRUCK WAS COMING DOWN SO I STOPPED AND HONKED SO HE WOULD BACK UP. WHEN HE DID, I WAS UNABLE TO MOVE MY SUV. IT FROOZE ENTIRELY, WOULDNT GO UP, WOULDNT GO IN REVERSE, JUST STAYED ON BUT WOULD NOT MOVE. AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS I WAS ABLE TO GO BACK A LITTLE AND MOVE TO A SIDE AND THEN I WAS ABLE TO DRIVE UP THE ROAD. THIS WAS THE 2ND TIME THIS HAS HAPPENED... Read more
Incident date: Mar 1, 2026
There is a foot and brake pedal clearance that is a safety issue. The driver side lower heat vent impinges on the driver right foot when when hitting the brake. Looking on the internet this is a known issue that Ford refuses to fix. Customers are modifying or removing the heat vent for their safety. Here is a link of several complaints and customers solutions. [XXX] This is not limited to larg... Read more
Incident date: Mar 13, 2026
I have a 2019 Ford Flex. In 2023 the backup camera stopped working. The screen is blue. This creates a problem when backing up, especially in store parking lots or pulling out of my garage. Unable to view what is behind the vehicle and risk of damage or injury to what is behind me. Dealer inspected and said camera needed to be replaced. We had it replaced in Nov. 2023. Recall received in J... Read more
Incident date: Sep 5, 2024
the car has a grinding that i am not sure where it is coming from, it maybe coming from the wheel and it also has a battery problem
Incident date: Feb 5, 2024
Going home from work, At highway traffic light intersection and car began to shake, sputter.. Engine and Oil light briefly came on before car stalled and shut off. In panic put gear into park, turned ignition button, car started and was able to put into drive and proceed. Not long after, on a main road, waiting for turn light, stalled, lost power again. Did not have any acceleration or power. Car... Read more
Incident date: Feb 1, 2026
Transmission went out at 101k miles - transmission needed to be rebuilt which I had done at a large cost. There was no warning, the trans went out while driving. Purge valve for gas (EVAP) also went out without any warning and when I would put gas in the car, the car would not start.
Incident date: Feb 16, 2026
I own a 2019 Acura RDX Advance with a head-up display (HUD). The HUD projection surface suddenly became warped and cracked after sun exposure. This was not gradual deterioration or normal wear and tear—it happened abruptly. The resulting distortion directly affects the clarity of the HUD and creates visual interference in my forward line of sight. This impacts my ability to clearly see the road... Read more
Incident date: Jan 15, 2026
Back window shattered spontaneously. No known cause. No evidence of vandalism. Temperature did drop 45 degrees over night. Shut side door and back window shattered. Had not started car yet. Rear defroster not engaged.
Incident date: Mar 18, 2026
I am submitting this complaint regarding ongoing and persistent mechanical issues with my vehicle since the time of purchase. The vehicle has repeatedly shut off unexpectedly, creating a serious safety concern. Initially, I suspected the issue might be related to the battery, and I have replaced the battery twice within the past 4 years. However, the problem has continued. In January, the vehicle... Read more
Incident date: Mar 5, 2026
Honda hrv 2025 malfunctioning when brake hold system is activated. Brake hold system lets individuals use the brake whenever needed without your foot having to be on the pedal the entire time. You can come to a red light, step on the pedal and take your foot off the pedal and the car will remain stopped until you press on the gas. Over the course of leasing this vehicle sometimes the brake system ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 1, 2025
Twice-- most recently in March 2026, the back up camera and the 360 camera failed. The screen went blank. Putting the transmission in Reverse did not engage the backup camera and pushing the "Camera" button on the dash did not engage the front or 360 camera. The interface screen was blank. After shutting off the car for a couple hours and then restarting it, the cameras worked again. Brought th... Read more
Incident date: Dec 27, 2025
2024 Hyundai Santa Fe purchased new in May 2024. On three occasions since December 2025, while driving, the dashboard went completely black as if the vehicle shut off. The Hyundai startup logo then reappeared while the vehicle was still moving, and the vehicle lost acceleration. The most recent event occurred at highway speed, approximately 65-70 mph, requiring us to coast to the shoulder. No warn... Read more
Incident date: Dec 24, 2025
My car moves when pushed or pulled and the vehicle is off and in park. Additionally, my car does not accelerate over 5 miles per hour and makes a whining noise when trying to drive
Incident date: Mar 12, 2026
Three window regulators have failed, leaving the windows completely useless. The first occurring in heavy rain and making it impossible to close. This is an issue reported countless times online.
Incident date: Mar 18, 2026
Issue occurs in [XXX] during normal daily driving, including while reversing and operating the vehicle at low speeds. The malfunctioning touchscreen interferes with safe vehicle operation in parking areas, residential streets, and regular traffic conditions. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Incident date: Dec 21, 2025
Driving home mid morning Thursday , March 5, 2026 on smooth paved rural road, 50MPH, sunny, temp was 40 degrees, no vehicles anywhere near us, our Panoramic Sunroof shattered on our 2013 Mercedes GLK 250. We heard a loud "BANG", but had no idea what it was. I slowed down, pulled over and while looking up, I noticed the sunroof had completely shattered and cracks were spreading as we sat watching i... Read more
Incident date: Dec 21, 2025
The vehicle was recalled. I took the vehicle to the dealer where it was purchased. It was serviced. The engine issue was addressed, so we thought. The repair/replacement parts did not remedy the issue, despite it being in the shop for over 6 months. The problem persists. It is overheating in a 5 minute drive. The local service department is saying there is no other remedy. They keep asking... Read more
POLESTAR
POLESTAR 2
(2023) - UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Mar 18, 2026
Incident date: Mar 31, 2024
February 23 2026: Discoverd the rear window had imploded on its own overnight. investigated with the neighbor's Ring camera to see if there was suspicious activity overnight and found there was none. I had the glass replaced. I thought this was bizarre to have a window implode but didn't think anything else. March 17, 2026: Driving home from an errand the rear window imploded again with the most ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 9, 2026
Have had the truck for 11 months (since new) I have never had the issue. The display (for radio, navigation etc.) just started switching to a different screen. I was using the navigation and the screen switched to display radio information without being touched. When I switched to Google Maps from car play. The map just froze up and would not unfreeze until I turned off the truck and restarted. Ha... Read more
Incident date: Mar 1, 2025
The upper radiator hose on some huge percentage of these trucks fail (mine has failed at just over 5k miles). You can check the Colorado Chevy forum, youtube, etc., et al, and find plenty of instances where this has failed. As this is the cooling system, it can cause the engine to overheat and potentially ruin the engine. The flaw seems to be an engineering issue with the rubber seal they use (ins... Read more
Incident date: Feb 25, 2026
I heard noise coming from my truck, sounded like it was in my wheel. Feb. 4, 2026 I took it to a repair shop. They told me it was the recall on my truck and gave the nut and bolt that had broken off my truck. I called Stanley Ford where I bought the truck to get the recall fixed. They told me they had the part and would get it out the next day (Friday) because I was leaving that Sunday on a wo... Read more
HYUNDAI
SANTA FE SPORT
(2018) - UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Mar 18, 2026
Incident date: Mar 11, 2026
The vehicle is experiencing a transmission failure that causes sudden jerking, hesitation, and loss of smooth acceleration when the engine reaches approximately 1,500–2,000 RPM. When driving under normal conditions on both city roads and highways, the transmission appears to slip or fail to properly engage or shift gears within this RPM range. When this occurs, the vehicle jerks violently and m... Read more
Incident date: Jun 4, 2025
I was driving on the highway when all of a sudden, no warning signs, no sounds/car shaking, anything, my car started lighting up with break system, engine light, parking sign, etc. I didn't know what was going on so I pulled over. When I pulled over, I checked the parking break to see if I might have hit it and I didn't. Then the car wouldn't go. The check engine light and all the break system lig... Read more
LAND ROVER
RANGE ROVER SPORT
(2014) - UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Mar 18, 2026
Incident date: Mar 8, 2026
My van has had to sit in the extreme cold in my driveway with a battery pack because of no resolution. Dealer still confirms "no parts available". This poses a risk to my kids outside playing in the driveway. I'd like to push this forward or find a solution since I don't have the option of selling the vehicle.
Incident date: Jan 2, 2025
The drivers side door latch froze and stopped working, the door wouldn’t close and the lock would glitch when trying to lock or unlock it, once the door did close it reopened while driving, so it never really closed all the way, and it started working just fine once the weather warmed up. There are recalls on this issue but not for my vehicle specifically.