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 16,369 complaints for AUDI
Incident date: Mar 20, 2026
Rear backup camera screen goes blank when car put into reverse. This occurs intermittently.
Incident date: Mar 21, 2026
The contact owns a 2025 Hyundai Palisade. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 25V607000 (SEAT BELTS) and 26V034000 (AIR BAGS); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the r... Read more
Incident date: Mar 22, 2026
My vehicle has multiple active safety recalls that remain unrepaired. I have already contacted the dealership and attempted to have these issues addressed, but I have experienced delays and a lack of response. The front brake hose recall presents a serious safety risk, as it could rupture and cause a brake fluid leak, leading to reduced braking ability and increased stopping distance. Additionally... Read more
Incident date: Mar 21, 2026
The secondary fuel filter is leaking and Ford has told me my vehicle was manufactured 1 month too early and doesn’t qualify for a previous recall…They know about the secondary fuel filter housing cracking and being an issue!
Incident date: Mar 21, 2026
The contact owns a 2025 Hyundai Palisade. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 25V607000 (SEAT BELTS) and 26V034000 (AIR BAGS); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the r... Read more
Incident date: Mar 20, 2026
My engine is a class action lawsuit and Hyundai refuses to honor their extended warranty because my title has a brand on it. (Odometer issues) My car has been a the dealer for a month and Hyundai refuses even though it's a safety issue and a defect in their design. I want a new engine. The car is perfect otherwise.
Incident date: Mar 21, 2026
On March 19, 2026, I was driving to work when traffic began to slow, and I reduced my speed accordingly. As traffic started to return to normal speed, I pressed the accelerator; however, although the engine revved, the vehicle did not accelerate beyond approximately 15 mph. I safely moved to the side of the road and turned the car off. After restarting the vehicle, shifting into drive, and pressin... Read more
Incident date: Mar 20, 2026
With Full Self-Driving activated, while the vehicle was performing a maneuver to exit a parking space, it reversed directly into a stationary concrete pillar. The impact occurred on the rear driver’s side. There was no driver steering or pedal input during the reversal. The pillar was a large, high-contrast concrete structure, and there was insufficient time to intervene once the vehicle began r... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Mar 20, 2026
The head gasket failed on my 2017 Honda civic after 110,000 miles I had the Honda dealership of Decatur fix the head gasket and it failed again after 36,000 miles this appears to be a massive issue Honda is having with these cars. And mine and other’s safety were put into risk because the car went into limp mode while I was driving on the interstate and yes the dealership confirmed that the head... Read more
Incident date: Jan 21, 2026
Vehicle: 2023 Cadillac Escalade (VIN: [XXX] ) Dealer: Cadillac Pasadena Case Number (GM Corporate): XXX Refusal to perform a mandatory Federal Safety Recall remedy. Details: 1. My vehicle is currently under Safety Recall XXX(L87 Engine Loss of Propulsion). I experienced a loss of propulsion and brought the vehicle to Cadillac Pasadena. 2 The dealership technician confirmed the engine is exhibi... Read more
AUDI
E-TRON SPORTBACK
(2022) - ENGINE
Mar 21, 2026
Incident date: Mar 5, 2026
Spoke with MB today and was told that the new battery for this recall would be available in late 2026 and that until then I should only park outside and not charge past 80%. When asked for a loaner car until they fixed the issue I was told no. Afraid to drive and or charge
AUDI
E-TRON SPORTBACK
(2022) - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Mar 21, 2026
Incident date: Mar 5, 2026
Spoke with MB today and was told that the new battery for this recall would be available in late 2026 and that until then I should only park outside and not charge past 80%. When asked for a loaner car until they fixed the issue I was told no. Afraid to drive and or charge
AUDI
E-TRON SPORTBACK
(2022) - UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Mar 21, 2026
Incident date: Mar 5, 2026
On August 22, American Lease agreed to pay for my recall work. They still haven't reimbursed me for the recall work. Additionally, although the software update was supposed to be included with the recall, they charged me to receive the software update.
Incident date: Jan 22, 2025
I am writing to formally document a recurring and dangerous safety defect involving the B&O audio system. On multiple occasions, the vehicle has emitted an ear-shattering popping noise followed by high-decibel electrical static. This issue is not merely a "speaker glitch"; it is a violent acoustic event that persists even after the ignition is turned off. Critical Safety Concerns: Driver Incapac... Read more
Incident date: Jan 22, 2025
While driving at approximately 60 mph on an open road with no obstacles present and no braking input, the rear wheels spontaneously locked up without warning. No brake pedal input. No warning light prior to the event. No obstruction in the road. The vehicle has been subject to an active manufacturer recall for rear wheel lockup due to transmission control valve failure. The dealer's own diagnostic... Read more
Incident date: Jan 22, 2025
While driving at approximately 60 mph on an open road with no obstacles present and no braking input, the rear wheels spontaneously locked up without warning. No brake pedal input. No warning light prior to the event. No obstruction in the road. The vehicle has been subject to an active manufacturer recall for rear wheel lockup due to transmission control valve failure. The dealer's own diagnostic... Read more
Incident date: Feb 17, 2026
Vehicle: 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan Incident Description: While driving at approximately 45 mph, about 5 minutes into the drive, my vehicle displayed a Lane Assist warning and a message to place my hands on the steering wheel. Immediately after, multiple warning lights and messages appeared across the dashboard. Followed my emergency warning message. The vehicle then suddenly applied the brakes on... Read more
Incident date: Feb 17, 2026
The specific component or system has not fully failed. However, my vehicle is currently experiencing an intermittent check engine light condition, turning off and on, which was diagnosed at a Retailer producing code P0018 then at the dealership and produced code P0017. The codes relate to the engine control module (ECM) detects that the camshaft on is out of sync with the crankshaft resulting in m... Read more
Incident date: Feb 17, 2026
The specific component or system has not fully failed. However, my vehicle is currently experiencing an intermittent check engine light condition, turning off and on, which was diagnosed at a Retailer producing code P0018 then at the dealership and produced code P0017. The codes relate to the engine control module (ECM) detects that the camshaft on is out of sync with the crankshaft resulting in m... Read more
Incident date: Feb 26, 2026
The contact owns a 2020 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while turning to the right, the steering wheel seized, and the vehicle became difficult to maneuver. The contact stated that force was needed to maneuver the steering wheel. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that t... Read more
Incident date: Jan 14, 2026
The contact owns a 2014 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (STRUCTURE); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.
Incident date: Jan 23, 2026
I have a 2016 Chevy volt. It had to be towed to a Chevy dealership because it will not drive. The BECM module has failed, as is apparently the case with so many volt owners. GM, as a result of lawsuits about this car, extended the warrantee to fix the issue, but my vin number is not included in the case. The gar is a brick, and there is no way to fix it now. GM doen't even replace these batte... Read more
Incident date: Jan 23, 2026
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact stated that while the vehicle was at the local dealer, it was determined that the heat shield was rubbing on the drive shaft. There was damage to the drive shaft. The dealer informed the contact about NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V778000 (Fuel System, Diesel). No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacte... Read more
Incident date: Jan 23, 2026
I am submitting this complaint to report a serious safety defect involving a high-pressure fuel system failure that occurred shortly after recall service was performed by an authorized dealership. The failure created a significant risk of engine compartment fire and potential loss of vehicle control. On March 25, 2025, my vehicle underwent recall service at Hall Ram Dealership for replacement of ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 4, 2026
Vehicle Symptom: The vehicle exhibits a persistent rough idle and engine hesitation specifically when at operating temperature. This issue is most prevalent during "Auto Start/Stop" transitions and while idling in heavy traffic. The engine feels as though it may stall, creating a significant safety concern regarding predictable acceleration and vehicle control in live traffic. Safety Risk: The ins... Read more
Incident date: Mar 5, 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: Mar 5, 2026
Breaks suddenly went out and I couldn't stop. I had our kids in the car.
Incident date: Mar 5, 2026
Breaks suddenly went out and I couldn't stop. I had our kids in the car.
Incident date: Nov 8, 2025
Breaks suddenly went out and I couldn't stop. I had our kids in the car.
Incident date: Nov 8, 2025
UNKNOWN Driver door will not lock via key fob or button. Actuator appears to be faulty. Car has been left unlocked without me knowing numerous time. I have to manually lock/unlock the door. It does stay locked durning driving but, may be manually locked. The auto lock safety feature no longer works.
Incident date: Feb 25, 2026
While driving an audible pop from the rear of the vehicle was heard. Upon hearing the pop the vehicle warning lights came on and a sudden loss of power reducing my maximum speed to 20 mile per hour. The electrical system failure warning came up on the screen and the car would not accelerate to over 20 miles per hour. The dealer stated it was a failed ICCU and fuse. This has been at the dealer for... Read more
Incident date: Feb 25, 2026
While driving an audible pop from the rear of the vehicle was heard. Upon hearing the pop the vehicle warning lights came on and a sudden loss of power reducing my maximum speed to 20 mile per hour. The electrical system failure warning came up on the screen and the car would not accelerate to over 20 miles per hour. The dealer stated it was a failed ICCU and fuse. This has been at the dealer for... 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
Incident date: Mar 16, 2026
Vehicle previously brought to dealership for recall and reported issue where vehicle abruptly stops/brakes without cause. Dealer did not resolve. On 3/16/26 vehicle came to a complete stop in roadway, shifted into park, and could not be moved into drive, neutral, or reverse. Driver was stranded in a dangerous situation with infant in vehicle. Dealer unable to inspect for weeks and refused loaner. ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 16, 2026
Vehicle previously brought to dealership for recall and reported issue where vehicle abruptly stops/brakes without cause. Dealer did not resolve. On 3/16/26 vehicle came to a complete stop in roadway, shifted into park, and could not be moved into drive, neutral, or reverse. Driver was stranded in a dangerous situation with infant in vehicle. Dealer unable to inspect for weeks and refused loaner. ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 17, 2026
This car has had so many issues in the 2 years that i have had it. Blown head gaskets, hard shifting, cruise control getting stuck in a high gear and not shifting. When fixing the head gasket it was apparent that it wasnt the first time being fixed. For such a nice vehicle it has way too many problems for the amount i purchased it for. There needs to be some sort of compensation for this. Upon lo... Read more
Incident date: Jan 17, 2026
During acceleration above 25 mph a noticeable whining sound is heard from the transmission. When not acceleration the sound goes away. The vehicle only has 72300 miles
Incident date: Feb 23, 2026
On Sunday, March 15,2026, I was driving from Houston, TX to Pharr, TX at the speed of 75mph on the left lane to pass an 18 wheeler, with another 18 wheeler behind me, and my truck started idling erratically. I lost speed and my service engine light came on. My truck slowed down and I almost got in a car accident with the 18 wheelers because the truck did this. The truck behind me slowed down on ti... Read more
Incident date: Mar 17, 2026
ICCU Failure. It's been replaced by Kia under warranty. Initially Level 2 charging failed multiple times. Luckily mine didn't die on the road, but it very well could've like others reported.
Incident date: Mar 17, 2026
This car has had so many issues in the 2 years that i have had it. Blown head gaskets, hard shifting, cruise control getting stuck in a high gear and not shifting. When fixing the head gasket it was apparent that it wasnt the first time being fixed. For such a nice vehicle it has way too many problems for the amount i purchased it for. There needs to be some sort of compensation for this. Upon lo... Read more
Incident date: Mar 16, 2026
The contact owned a 2021 Genesis GV80. The contact stated that the instrument cluster was inoperable. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the instrument cluster had failed and needed to be replaced at the owner's expense. The contact declined to pay for the repair. The vehicle was not repaired. Additionally, the contact stated that while driving 70 MPH ... Read more
Fire
Incident date: Mar 16, 2025
I own a 2018 Tesla Model X that has multiple breakdowns ( 3 times to date: Feb.28, 2026, Mar.7, 2026, Mar.14, 2026) resulting in the vehicle becoming undriveable and could not be shifted out of Neutral. During driving on separate occasions, the vehicle displayed multiple safety warnings and critical systems became disabled. Alerts shown on vehicle included: 1. Automatic Emergency Braking unavailab... Read more
Incident date: Mar 11, 2026
My 2016 Ram 1500 (4th‑gen) has a severely rusted and failed front fuel tank strap bracket, causing the tank to sag. This matches the defect described in Recall U04 / NHTSA 18V‑160 for 2009–2012 Ram 1500 trucks, but my VIN is not included. I believe the same safety defect affects ALL rust belt 4th‑gen Ram 1500s and request that NHTSA investigate expanding the recall’s model‑year coverag... Read more
Incident date: Mar 15, 2026
Complete engine failure on highway at speeds of 70+. The vehicle was inspected per the recall on this engine and it passed inspection prior to purchasing. The vehicle now needs a complete engine replaced per local GMC dealer.
Incident date: Mar 15, 2026
The vehicle is experiencing a failure of the dual-zone HVAC system where the passenger side consistently blows hot air while the driver side is set to cold. This indicates a failure of the HVAC blend door actuator (servo motor), which is a known issue for this model year. This failure poses a safety risk as it can prevent proper defrosting and defogging of the windshield during inclement weather, ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 15, 2026
The vehicle is experiencing a failure of the dual-zone HVAC system where the passenger side consistently blows hot air while the driver side is set to cold. This indicates a failure of the HVAC blend door actuator (servo motor), which is a known issue for this model year. This failure poses a safety risk as it can prevent proper defrosting and defogging of the windshield during inclement weather, ... Read more
Incident date: Jul 15, 2025
Since owning the vehicle, I have experienced a range of serious transmission issues. These include harsh or delayed gear shifts, inconsistent downshifts, and transmission slipping. The vehicle also frequently jerks or lurches during gear changes. Of particular concern is the vehicle’s behavior during downshifting. At times, the transmission downshifts abruptly and causes the vehicle to lunge for... Read more
Incident date: Jul 15, 2025
2022 gmc sierra The tailgate is electrical which cause safety awareness and concern due to the tailgate opening by itself. The tailgate seems to continuously electronically open and continue to release the latch causing the tail gate to open possibly loosing cargo from the bed or tailgate opening and hitting other vehicles that may park too close or cause damage on a hitch if available. It is a p... Read more
Incident date: Jul 15, 2025
Catastrophic engine failure; no warning lights,etc. took place on or about end of January 2026. Car completely died and would not start. Car towed to dealer (GMC Blaise Alexander, Hazleton, PA) Vehicle inspected by dealer master mechanic and others. Engine completely disassembled. Unable to repair. No warnings, lamps, messages or other symptoms prior to failure. Tremendous expense had to be inc... Read more
Incident date: Mar 1, 2026
Coolant intrusion to cylinder #3 deeming the engine bad needing to be replaced.