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: Aug 12, 2025
On [XXX] while traveling on a highway, the vehicle lost drive power—the gear selector would not remain in Drive and reverted to Neutral for approximately 10 minutes. This created a serious safety hazard due to sudden loss of propulsion in moving traffic. The event was captured by OnStar, which emailed an automated incident alert. I later received a GM safety recall notice concerning potential e... Read more
Incident date: Aug 4, 2025
The contact owns a 2023 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that on occasion while driving at various speeds, the vehicle unexpectedly stopped without the brake pedal being depressed. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was diagnosed twice by the local dealer, and the contact was advised that the Forward Collision Avoidance sensors needed to be recalibrated; however, the failu... Read more
Incident date: Aug 4, 2025
The fuel pressure system is faulty and shutting the engine down and reducing speed
Incident date: Jun 6, 2025
The Yukon has stopped while driving twice. The check engine light came on, the dealership says there is an oil problem and the oil pump is bad along with bad lifters. There is wear to the motor as well.
Incident date: Aug 13, 2025
Driving at about 80 mph the engine stalled. Check engine and oil light turned on Dealer said there were no lights and no codes present and simply changed oil. 18 miles later engine light was flashing and engine started making horrible noise. Towed back to dealer and vehicle failed bearing test
Incident date: Aug 13, 2025
Driving truck over RR tracks in city that were not a large bump and my front fuel tank strap came loose. I looked under truck and saw strap was corroded but not broken. Then looked where the T shape strap connector attached to vehicle and it was extremely corroded and broken away. Had I been moving at a much higher speed this would have caused a serious accident.
Incident date: Aug 9, 2025
I am getting "Safety Restraint System Fault" on my car. This puts my family at risk if the safety features are faulty. When I contacted Tesla, they want me to drive 41(!) miles away and charge me almost $500.
Incident date: Aug 9, 2025
I am reporting a serious safety concern with my 2012 Honda Civic Hybrid. What component or system failed and is it available for inspection? The hybrid drive system and regenerative braking system are malfunctioning. The hybrid battery recharging system including the MPI have failed, causing the vehicle to operate solely on the gasoline engine. This results in degraded braking performance due to ... Read more
Incident date: Aug 13, 2025
The Yukon has stopped while driving twice. The check engine light came on, the dealership says there is an oil problem and the oil pump is bad along with bad lifters. There is wear to the motor as well.
AUDI
A4 ALLROAD
(2013) - FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Aug 12, 2025
Incident date: Aug 11, 2025
After coming to a rolling stop and making a right, I would attempt to accelerate. The vehicle would then throw itself out of gear and I could not accelerate. A message would appear on the dash "Shift to P then Desired Gear." The problem would not be fixed until the vehicle was put in park, then back into drive. I took the vehicle to RAM and they could not replicate the issue, but it would happe... Read more
Incident date: Aug 10, 2025
My tire is a 255 / 40 ZR 19 model, speed rated 100W. While rotating my tires I noticed catastrophic tread separation on the inner sidewall of the tire. The separation is scattered, not all in one section, and in total covers about 1/4 of the total diameter. The underlying belt package has separated and steel wire is plainly visible at distance. The tire was still holding normal pressure at the tim... Read more
Incident date: Jul 19, 2024
The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle briefly lost motive power and came to a complete stop. The vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. The contact stated that the ESC warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 25, 2025
Knock sensor code p1326
Incident date: Jun 25, 2025
The airbags did not deploy
Crash
1 injured
Incident date: Jun 25, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that whenever the vehicle was started, the ABS warning light remained illuminated. The contact stated that the ABS warning light was constantly illuminated and while the ABS light was illuminated, the cruise control was inoperable. The contact stated that the part was no longer being manufactured. The contact provided the ABS module part number ... Read more
Incident date: Aug 2, 2025
The contact owns a 2022 Ford Bronco. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 25V273000 (Back Over Prevention), 25V315000 (Back Over Prevention), and 25V455000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the parts for the recall repairs were unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repairs. The contact stated that afte... Read more
AUDI
A4 ALLROAD
(2020) - STRUCTURE:BODY
Aug 10, 2025
Incident date: Mar 15, 2025
Discovered water underneath passenger footwell carpet, causing a musty and mildewy smell. Many reports of similar discoveries online prompted the initial search. Safety concern is mold growth and rust. Dealer was unable to replicate issue after two attempts (ran through car wash, hose over windshield, ran A/C for extended period, checked AC condensate drainage). Dealer dried up water and carpet a... Read more
AUDI
A4 ALLROAD
(2020) - ENGINE
Aug 10, 2025
Incident date: Mar 15, 2025
⸻ Background: •2021 GMC Sierra Denali – 6.2L V8 •VIN included in GM’s engine defect recall (connecting rod/crankshaft) •Recall status shows “No current remedy available” •Defect acknowledged by GM can cause “engine damage, loss of propulsion, or complete engine failure.” Timeline of Events: •~1 month ago – Truck began running rough with noticeable ticking/knocking noise... Read more
AUDI
A4 ALLROAD
(2020) - POWER TRAIN
Aug 10, 2025
Incident date: Mar 15, 2025
When taking off out of my driveway the car hesitated to send power from the engine to the wheels resulting in a delayed start. Unknown which component caused the issue but based on my previous 2014 trailhawks PTU 2 x failure it appears to be the suspect. This placed my me and my family at a risk of a side collision as vehicles drive down our road at high speeds. If we cannot pull out in time, a... Read more
Incident date: Jul 25, 2025
Out of no where engine light starts flashing and had it checked code P1326 Knock Sensor Detection System. Now need a new engine. This is a common issue for this make and model but somehow my vin isn’t on the recall. This isn’t right
Incident date: Aug 2, 2025
The problem seems to be with the electrical system the TIPM is malfunctioning. Wipers will stop midstream or run constantly, any time power is engaged in the car the wipers will begin to work whether the switch is on or off and regardless if the key is even in the ignition or not. Airbag lights are lit up, blinker switch will engage wipers to run.
Incident date: Aug 2, 2025
The problem seems to be with the electrical system the TIPM is malfunctioning. Wipers will stop midstream or run constantly, any time power is engaged in the car the wipers will begin to work whether the switch is on or off and regardless if the key is even in the ignition or not. Airbag lights are lit up, blinker switch will engage wipers to run.
Incident date: Aug 2, 2025
The problem seems to be with the electrical system the TIPM is malfunctioning. Wipers will stop midstream or run constantly, any time power is engaged in the car the wipers will begin to work whether the switch is on or off and regardless if the key is even in the ignition or not. Airbag lights are lit up, blinker switch will engage wipers to run.
Incident date: Apr 19, 2024
The contact owns a 1997 N/A Ford F-150. The contact stated that while servicing the vehicle independently, the contact unplugged the cruise control deactivation sensor and became aware of condensation leaking from the sensor. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 132,000.
Incident date: Aug 7, 2025
The vehicle looses power and hesitates to accelerate from a stop start. This happens when The HV Battery State of Charge (SOC) is below 30%. •The vehicle is in catalyst warm-up mode (cold start). The Motor Generator (MG) is in charge mode. As a result of this scenario I have almost been T boned 3 times while attempting a left turn from my home across a dual carriage lane. And again nearly rear... Read more
Incident date: Jul 23, 2025
On August 1st, I was travelling on I-44 (a toll road with an 80 mph speed) near Claremont Oklahoma. I was doing 68 mph when a red warning message came up on my dash. It read...KINGPIN RELEASE ACTIVATED. STOP IMMEDIATELY! KINGPIN RELEASED WITHOUT REQUEST. I did not touch my brakes. I gently moved to the the shoulder and coasted to a stop...so as not to put any pressure on the kingpin or fifth... Read more
Incident date: Aug 3, 2025
I am a victim of SUA (sudden unintended acceleration. I entered my driveway and had my foot on the brake petal. Before I could shift into Park, the vehicle revved to a high RPM and then took off like a rocket. Brakes were initially hard to press and then the petal went to the floor, and I lost the brakes. This all happened very quickly and took me by surprise. I crashed through a double cyclone g... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Aug 4, 2025
The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Juke. The contact stated that while attempting the start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to respond as intended twice, and then the vehicle turned off independently after the third attempt. An independent mechanic was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but was not diagnosed. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed w... Read more
Incident date: Aug 1, 2025
On August 5, while driving on I-79 at 78 mph, our Escalade suddenly and completely shut off. The entire system failed — no power, no control — while our three children were in the car. This is the second GM vehicle we’ve owned to do this. Our previous Yukon Denali also shut off twice at highway speeds before we got rid of it out of fear for our safety. We reached out about the Escalade reca... Read more
Incident date: Jul 26, 2025
While i have a few recalls i plan on needing service from Mercedes for, I just found out that Mercedes has a Class action lawsuit involving my C class mercedes C300 from 2010-2022 years. I was driving and ran into a pothole. My car rear started making noise and sounds. I went to the auto shop amd was told my rear subframe was damaged and would cost over 2,000. I and putting in a complaint to ma... Read more
Incident date: Jul 26, 2025
While driving, infotainment screen went black and audio died. Restarting car did not solve the problem. Dealer pulled and reinstalled a fuse which "fixed" the problem but said it was a known problem and could recur. It has been several years since it has happened but I figured I'd report it since some car settings are only available through the infotainment system.
Incident date: Jul 26, 2025
Took my car to the dealership to have the windshield replaced due to a rock chip. Driving home on the freeway with the new windshield installed, I noticed a new crack moving across the windshield. I had on driven only 45 miles. Contacted Landrover and was told it was just an unfortunate chance event. I previously had a windshield replaced for the same reason. I now need my 3rd windshield in 1 1/2 ... Read more
Incident date: Jul 9, 2025
Failure of hydraulic lifters and camshaft in Cummins 6.7 liter diesel engine of 2021 RAM 3500. Engine exhibited significant ticking noise and the engine does not work properly, putting the safety of driver and passengers in vehicle at risk. Vehicle is not driveable. This issue has been confirmed by the RAM dealership in Livingston, Montana. The 2021 RAM 3500 truck has been sitting at the RAM deale... Read more
Incident date: Aug 5, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power after the engine made an abnormal sound. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic to be diagnosed, but the cause of the failure could not be determined. The vehicle was not repaired, and the failure... Read more
Incident date: Jul 15, 2025
The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the vehicle unexpectedly veered to the left. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the steering wheel became inoperable, and the contact was unable to straighten the steering wheel. The brake pedal was also depressed. The contact attempted to depress the accelerator pedal however, the veh... Read more
Incident date: Jul 15, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that the passenger’s side air bag warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the occupant detection system (ODS) had failed and needed to be replaced. The part was ordered 9 months ago; however, the part was on back order. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufactur... Read more
Incident date: Aug 6, 2025
The paint on my car slowly began to peel away on the hood and side panels, eventually exposing almost the entire hood to be bare (Kia was notified and I was denied any sort of help). I had the hood and panels painted out of pocket, shortly after the side rear passenger door has begun with the exact same issue Eventually, my car is going to be missing all paint and just primer. This needs to be add... Read more
Incident date: Aug 6, 2025
The paint on my car slowly began to peel away on the hood and side panels, eventually exposing almost the entire hood to be bare (Kia was notified and I was denied any sort of help). I had the hood and panels painted out of pocket, shortly after the side rear passenger door has begun with the exact same issue Eventually, my car is going to be missing all paint and just primer. This needs to be add... Read more
Incident date: Jun 4, 2025
I was just getting off from work starting the engine, the driving meters screen and the head up display were completely off black, I thought that it will turn on after driving but it didn’t. I was driving more than 5 minutes on the free way and both screens were still dark. This is not the first time that this happened. The last time when this was happened, I brought my vehicle to the dealers... Read more
Incident date: Feb 1, 2025
hello , my mom was driving . she had all the lane driving assist systems on. the driving assist , lane assist, forward collision assist, lane keeping assist, & cruise control. it had started to rain my mom tried to move over to the middle lane the steer wheel would not let her it pulled her back as if someone was on the side of her but it wasnt it then started driving by itself. the car started m... Read more
Crash
5 injured
Incident date: Feb 1, 2025
hello , my mom was driving . she had all the lane driving assist systems on. the driving assist , lane assist, forward collision assist, lane keeping assist, & cruise control. it had started to rain my mom tried to move over to the middle lane the steer wheel would not let her it pulled her back as if someone was on the side of her but it wasnt it then started driving by itself. the car started m... Read more
Crash
5 injured
Incident date: Feb 1, 2025
The contact owns a 2010 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving on the highway at 70 MPH, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted to 1st gear, and the service vehicle soon warning light soon illuminated. The contact continued to drive the vehicle, and the vehicle was taken to a local dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the mechatronic unit was faulty and needed to be ... Read more
Incident date: Aug 5, 2025
Hyundai engages emergency parking brake EPB) automatically when in parked on an incline. The EPB will disengage under normal operation if all doors are closed. If doors are open, EPB will not disengage. If going from park to drive, this is not a problem. However, if in drive, traveling with trunk open for oversized cargo, the vehicle will drive normally until a stop on an incline, when the EPB wil... Read more
Incident date: Jun 20, 2025
I purchased the 2016 Kia Forte on [XXX] from Bald Hill Kia in Warwick, RI. Within the first 30 days, there was a knocking noise which turned out to be the knocking sensor. I took the car to be checked on 11/1/2022 and paid to replace the knock sensor. On [XXX], the knock sensor acted up again so the knock sensor had to be replaced again. They also found a small evap leak and the charcoal canister ... Read more
Incident date: Jul 10, 2025
Axel failure. Took my trailer into the shop because the wheels were leaning inward and eating tires unevenly. The trailer mechanic said I had to replace both axels!! They were undersized from the manufacture. Extremely unsafe and very likely could have caused an accident while towing.
Incident date: Jul 27, 2025
The fuel pump went out, left me stranded and was replaced The transmission went out and was replaced. The lifters in the engine were replaced. When will the engine recall be addressed/acted on? The "cure" to install heavier engine oil is a very bad "bandaid"....truly masks the problem. Maybe the Chevy CEO should return her 2024 $25mm bonus to help pay for the repairs.
Incident date: Jul 27, 2025
The fuel pump went out, left me stranded and was replaced The transmission went out and was replaced. The lifters in the engine were replaced. When will the engine recall be addressed/acted on? The "cure" to install heavier engine oil is a very bad "bandaid"....truly masks the problem. Maybe the Chevy CEO should return her 2024 $25mm bonus to help pay for the repairs.
Incident date: Mar 6, 2025
I was driving to work and the steering wheel just looked up and got really stiff and hard to control which was really dangerous. Prior to the I could just be sitting idle and the steering wheel would just start moving by itself out of nowhere.
Incident date: Jul 27, 2025
The contact owns a 2022 Ford Escape. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V467000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The dealer was contacted, and the contact was informed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the recall was a safety concern and inquired how long before the manufacturer produced pa... Read more
Incident date: Mar 1, 2025
The reason of this complain is due to excessive oil consumption which now damaged my catalytic converter against Hyundai Motors America. The complained started 2021 where we noticed that the low oil engine light up after only 1500 miles from last oil change. We submitted the complained with dealer (Carlsbad and Escondido CA) and my car failed 3 consecutive oil consumption test and Hyundai performe... Read more