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: Nov 30, 2025
I paid off my var in June. By the ed of august my cars engine started going bad out of no where. started with oil and coolant mixing into the engine and then transmission started whining. Long story short I had to get both replaced. Oh yea my car only has 56k miles. Can you guys explain or give me any ideas on how this happened?
Incident date: Dec 2, 2025
The "Service Airbag - Passenger" warning light suddenly appeared on the console of my 2014 Buick Enclave. Once I arrived home, I Googled what the light indicated and I also sorted through mail I had recently received from Buick that notified me of a recall. Convinced that I needed to resolve the issue promptly, I contacted the dealership we purchased the vehicle from and they informed me to come ... Read more
Incident date: Sep 23, 2025
Fan Assembly - Nissan (21481-6MA0B) failed at 68,000 miles. Can can overheat and car will fail. This fan helps cool the AC and radiator.
Incident date: Dec 2, 2025
I took the car to get serviced 3 times because the battery was being drained and it left me stranded on the side of the road . I had to look up the technical service bulletin myself before the dealership would update the software on the car. It should have been recalled back in 2019 when they knew about the problem. it left my elderly mother stranded 3 times and it took me having to figure it out ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 29, 2025
While driving, the vehicle's infotainment system becomes unusable due to a pop-up ad for Sirius XM satellite radio. All vehicle settings, including safety settings, automatic braking, and other driving assistance settings, are all controlled by the vehicle's infotainment display. Additionally, the infotainment unit displays maps and navigation tools that assist the driver. I believe it is a safety... Read more
Incident date: Dec 2, 2025
PER HENDRICKS CHEVROLET IN HOOVER, AL "INSPECTED REAR DIFF FOR METAL & FOUND LAARGE AMOUNTS OF METAL ON DRAIN PLUG MAGNET. RECOMMEND REPLACING REAR DIFF DUE TO LARGE AMOUNT OF METAL FOUND IN OIL." There was no warning on the vehicle; however, you can hear it loudly when a left or right turn is made.
Incident date: Jan 17, 2025
Brakes failed my husband (primary driver of the KIA vehicle) came home from work on 8/19/2024. He pulled off at the local mechanic. Brakes were rusty and there was rust in the brake line so we had to replace. Rusty brakeline became a voluntary recall because it was not just our car that had this problem. We have been going back and forth with Kia since June notice (their case #XXX) and they are b... Read more
Incident date: Nov 6, 2025
I have several issues. 1. An independent auto shop noticed all 4 of my shocks were leaking when they did an oils change and tire rotation recently. I have had my other oil changes and rotations at the dealership prior to this and they never mentioned it. I’ve tried calling my dealership svc dept. about it 4 times now with no call backs. 2. The new tires that came with my jeep from the fact... Read more
DODGE
GRAND CARAVAN
(2017) - UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Dec 2, 2025
Incident date: Nov 18, 2025
I am reporting a recurring safety issue involving engine stalling in active traffic due to excessive oil loss and internal component failure. This has occurred three times within approximately 12,000 miles and has created dangerous conditions for my family, including my 2.5 year old child who rides in the vehicle. Summary of incidents: • May 15, 2025 – 61,736 miles: Vehicle stalled in traffi... Read more
Incident date: Aug 11, 2025
Hi, I am writing regarding my leased 2024 Jeep Wrangler 4xe (VIN: [XXX] ), which is currently under both fire-risk safety recalls. I have been advised not to charge the vehicle and to keep it parked away from my home, buildings, and other cars due to the potential battery fire hazard. At this time, the dealership has confirmed that they are unable to perform the recall repair or provide a timel... Read more
Incident date: Aug 11, 2025
I also have noticed the gurgling sound from the passenger's side when raining and/or when I have had my vehicle washed, and as of this morning 12/02/2025, I have a leak inside the cabin of my vehicle from the middle upper console and over the passenger side window. I am taking it to a windshield repair place to be inspected to see if it is an issue with the windshield or the moonroof. I will the... Read more
CHEVROLET
SILVERADO 2500
(2024) - UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Dec 2, 2025
Incident date: May 6, 2025
Recently the radio and display system in the vehicle stopped working properly. It was basically ghosting all commands. It could not be controlled by knobs, touch screen or voice command. the dealer stated that the screen delaminated and was causing the issue. This is a safety concern because the radio was calling 911 randomly and I was unable to stop it, it was turn on and off features in the v... Read more
Incident date: Sep 9, 2025
My engine stalled while driving. My low tire pressure light came on and an hour or so later I was turning left at a light. My left turn signal was on. Suddenly my car stalled and the message that stated Put in park, steering power low showed on screen. Put car in park and restarted and it started right up. Dealer said no codes and could not replicate. Only 18,000 miles on car. Huge safety issue!!!... Read more
Incident date: Oct 8, 2025
Traction Control and ABS not working properly. ABS light on dashboard is on called dealer several times and am told that the parts are unavailable. However, they said if I want to pay for the parts they could fix it. We called mopar and were told that the parts are available and can even be purchased on [XXX] . Called and explained this to the dealer and they said they had 1 in stock and made an... Read more
GMC
SIERRA 1500
(2025) - UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Dec 2, 2025
Incident date: Nov 10, 2025
Dashboard crack in 2024, that started on passenger side near air vent, expanded recently causing the "passenger air bag off" alert to light up and stay on continually. If I were to have a passenger at the time of an accident, the air bag might not deploy, which would be a safety issue. This could possibly lead to a liability issue, so I have not had any passengers but that isn't sustainable, so I ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 2, 2025
The shade on the moonroof came off track and would hang down obscuring rear view from mirror. Vehicle taken to Ford dealer for repair. After $1600 repair, three days later the shade would not close completely and returned to Ford dealer. Still waiting on repair.
Incident date: Nov 27, 2025
The sunroof exploded on my CLA without external interference. The glass shattered everywhere causing a loud explosion and Major safety issue.
Incident date: Nov 19, 2025
The back windshield exploded. Nothing hit the windshield and there was no warning of it occuring.
Incident date: Dec 2, 2025
I am submitting this complaint to report a safety issue with the turn-signal buttons on my steering wheel of the 2024–2025 Tesla Model 3 Highland. The turn-signal buttons are located on the steering wheel surface instead of a traditional stalk. When the steering wheel is turned at any angle, the buttons are difficult to locate by feel, often requiring the driver to look down to activate them and... Read more
JEEP
GRAND CHEROKEE
(2023) - UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Dec 2, 2025
Incident date: Nov 26, 2025
When I purchased this car in 2020 it had approximately 30,000 miles on it and the paint was already flaking in one place. The paint is snow white pearl and it is now flaking in several places. I would like to request an investigation into this specific paint and flaking issues.
Incident date: Oct 3, 2025
A certified independent inspection company discovered welding on the main chassis of my Ford F-150. The welding is located on the front left frame area. I purchased the vehicle brand new, and it has never been in any accident or collision. This welding on a critical structural part creates a serious safety risk. Frame integrity may be compromised in normal driving or in the event of an impact. I ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 14, 2025
Dash Panel Display blanked out while driving in the morning and was dark out. It happened at least 4 times during a 45min drive into work. Could not see the speed I was going or any gauges which I don't think any of the Safety stuff was working.
Incident date: Dec 1, 2025
The car suddenly glitched and locked itself—with my dog, my purse, my phone, everything—inside on an extremely hot day. There was no one around, and it was terrifying. I had opened the passenger door for my dog to climb in, and as I walked around to the driver’s side, the doors somehow locked on their own. Panic set in immediately. My dog, my phone, and my purse were all inside, and I had no... Read more
FORD
EXPEDITION
(2021) - UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Dec 1, 2025
Incident date: Dec 1, 2025
I am filing a complaint regarding my 2024 Jeep Wrangler under an active safety recall involving the high-voltage battery. Jeep has stated that there is no repair available and advised owners not to charge the vehicle and not to park it in a garage or near structures due to a potential fire risk. This creates a major safety hazard, and I am unable to use the vehicle as intended. The recall has cau... Read more
Incident date: Dec 1, 2025
We had snow this afternoon and my wife drove the car home from work. We live on a private road and have a steep driveway. I had her park the car in the road while I plowed the driveway. There was only 1-2” of snow on the ground. My wife existed the car. It appeared to be off and in park meaning the engine was not running and the car sat still on a grade. In hindsight, I should have had her... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Dec 1, 2025
Shift to park error message when in park.
Incident date: Nov 17, 2025
Navigational system is not functioning properly. On Star button remains in on position. All apps on dash will not connect to internet. Google Map cannot locate exact location of vehicle. Also phone app for the vehicle no longer communicating with the truck. Can only use key fab for minor functions. Can only use vehicle for short range driving, since long range driving plans cannot be determi... Read more
JEEP
GRAND CHEROKEE
(2024) - UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Dec 1, 2025
Incident date: Nov 28, 2025
When pressing the horn on the steering wheel of my 2024 Kia Seltos SX Turbo AWD during an emergency no sound was heard. Horn is silent. Fuse is not blown and it appears likely the horn is defective.
Incident date: Jul 1, 2025
Evaporator for AC failing. This poses a risk for drivers not having property AC in different weather and is extremely dangerous with children. Issue was found by the Honda dealership. I brought this issue up with them on a previous visit after hearing a strange noise, said everything was fine then a week later it goes out and only blowing hot air into vehicle.
Incident date: Sep 23, 2025
Hello I own a Hyundai Elantra 2015 SE I am having trunk latch issues the trunk will not open at all I cannot pull seats down without getting into the trunk once something is in there it cannot get out I believe this is a safety hazard I called my dealership to see if there is a recall on this but there is not this is a big issue .
GMC
SIERRA DENALI
(2015) - UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Dec 1, 2025
Incident date: Dec 1, 2025
After parking, I try to put the car into park and it will not go all the way to park. The key fob will not come out of the ignition, so the battery is still being used with the dashboard lights on. No alert or alarm lights show an issue. This has occurred MANY times. Finally, after waiting from 5-45 minutes, you can hear a click in the front area (gear area) and then I can turn the switch complete... Read more
Incident date: Oct 9, 2025
I am reporting an odometer rollback that occurred before I purchased my vehicle. CARFAX shows the vehicle had 206,627 miles when it was sold at an auto auction on February 27, 2023. Four months later, in June 2023, the vehicle was retitled in Illinois at 69,000 miles. The odometer reading at my first service visit on June 26, 2023 also showed 68,380 miles. This is a discrepancy of approximately 1... Read more
Incident date: Dec 1, 2025
Problem Description: The rear sliding window track on my Ford F-150 has detached / become loose, causing the window to rattle, misalign, and leak water into the cabin. While there is a TSB (SSM 50337) for window rattling, my truck’s issue is more severe, creating a potential safety hazard if the window detaches while driving or allows water damage to electrical components. Additional Info: •O... Read more
JEEP
GRAND CHEROKEE
(2019) - UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Dec 1, 2025
Incident date: Nov 25, 2025
My car has been having electrical problems. First, airbag sensor caused every yellow warning light to go on. Now my infotainment center with maps either goes black or too dark to see all the time. Hyundai has an update for this infotainment center but they cannot update it. It will not update. I am driving relying on maps and all of the sudden it cannot be seen. Very dangerous. I had this ... Read more
Incident date: Oct 10, 2025
Since Ford issued the first recall notice for Recall 24S02, I have been contacting my local Ford dealerships every few months to check whether the replacement parts were available. Each time, I am told the parts are still not in stock. As of today, multiple pieces of my vehicle have flown off while I was driving. This has become a serious safety hazard. Most recently, while driving on the freeway... Read more
Incident date: Oct 23, 2025
Rear View camera stopped working about 6 weeks ago. Mechanic says need new camera which would cost about $500 labor and parts. Contacted dealer and Hyundai corporate to report and complain. Many other Hyundai vehicles have same problem with rear view camera but they are included in a recall campaign. Mine is not. Mechanic said the repair requires new camera and wireing harness. Hyundai case number... Read more
Incident date: Nov 15, 2025
While driving down the road way the collision mitigation warning failure flashed and then pulled the steering wheel pulled me off the roadway and nearly caused me to crash.
Incident date: Dec 1, 2025
The rotary volume control knob on the center console of my 2024 Porsche Cayenne Coupe detached during normal, routine interior cleaning while the vehicle was stationary. The knob lifted off the control shaft with minimal contact from a standard handheld vacuum nozzle. This indicates that the retention mechanism of the control knob is insufficient and may represent a manufacturing or design defect.... Read more
Incident date: Dec 1, 2023
This vehicle can create a fire. My home is at risk, other cars/structures parked near it, and people who drive the vehicle are at risk of fire. This is the 2nd time we have received notice of fire hazard for this make/model. The dealership is aware of the problems. check engine light stays on and nobody can figure out why. I cannot charge my car, park near anyone/anything, and constant fear of my ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 4, 2025
My 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L engine developed a severe tick, misfire, and rough idle at only 93,000 miles. This was diagnosed as a collapsed AFM lifter on Cylinder 2. GM 5.3L AFM lifter failure is extremely common in these trucks and causes sudden loss of power, misfires, and unsafe driving conditions. This is a known widespread defect, yet GM has not issued a recall. The failure... Read more
Incident date: Dec 1, 2025
Using the navigation system in self driving mode the turn signal indicators start 500 feet from the intended turn, regardless of speed, and not influenced by cross streets or parking lot driveways thay are present before the intended turn. This takes place regardless of upcoming cross streets or driveways, but based on distance only, giving drivers coming out of these cross streets and driveways ... Read more
Incident date: Oct 26, 2025
The vehicle's central locking system does not properly communicate with the keyfob resulting in the doors not unlocking as intended. I have had my child in the car seat in the back and if i accidentantly touch the handle the wrong way the doors will lock and I am unable to use the unlock feature to get my kid out. This could be a serious safety issue if someone becomes trapped in the rear seat and... Read more
Incident date: Nov 19, 2025
My 202 Hyundai Sonata is involved in the current hyundai fuel system recall. on 10/26/25 the fuel tank expanded and caused three explosive "boom" sounds inside the vehicle while I was driving with passengers. The backseat began heating and rising upward due to fuel tank swelling. The tank became pressurized, hissing, bubbling, and would not accept fuel. The vehicle became inoperable. The car has n... Read more
Incident date: Dec 1, 2025
When using android auto and I get a phone call the car screen will not return back to it's original screen. If I use apple car play it's just fine and it works like it should and the screen returns to it's original screen. I had the same issue with my 2022 Yukon when I purchased it. General motors later came out with two software updates and after the last update the issue was resolved. I file... Read more
Incident date: Nov 26, 2025
Approximately two weeks before the major symptom appeared, the “Service 4WD” warning light illuminated on the dashboard. The vehicle’s performance didn’t seem to be noticeably affected, so I checked for any active recalls or service bulletins but found none that applied to my VIN. I monitored the situation closely in case it was an electrical or sensor-related issue. Shortly after, a loud... Read more
JEEP
WRANGLER 4XE
(2024) - UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Dec 1, 2025
Incident date: Dec 1, 2025
The vehicle was sold with oversized 35-inch tires but was never recalibrated for speedometer, odometer, or tire pressure monitoring systems. The vehicle’s speedometer reads approximately 7 mph slower than actual speed, making the odometer inaccurate as well. This affects braking, ABS, traction control, and engine timing. The door placard still lists the original 265/70R17 tires, meaning the vehi... Read more
Incident date: Nov 28, 2025
Back Windshield shattered for no reason. Nothing was provoked with the vehicle. The car was parked and the back windshield just shattered on its own.
Incident date: Oct 22, 2025
Vehicle is in park, and the shft sensor does not recognize the shifter is in park. Won't let you turn off rhe car.
Incident date: Oct 22, 2025
Below issues has been going on for a months now, latest was yesterday (11/30/2025). The rear-view camera image not appearing on the display (a safety hazard). Audio and display flickering or the entire screen going black. Error messages like "MOST Net off" or general communication errors. There seem to be a recall by Honda below but my car was not included. All the same symptoms as described in ... Read more