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: Dec 7, 2024
The second-row seatbelt in my 2017 Tesla Model X does not retract, preventing proper restraint of a passenger. Tesla acknowledged the issue but refused to repair it, stating the vehicle is out of warranty. This is a failure of a federally mandated safety system and a clear safety hazard under FMVSS 209. I’m transporting children in this vehicle and cannot rely on this seatbelt to function.
Incident date: Jun 17, 2025
Similar to most Escape drivers, I experienced a sudden transmission issue while I was driving. The car would not accelerate even when firmly pressing on the gas, then would jump in a delayed reaction causing a movement in my car I could not control. No check engine light, no indication of trouble in a well maintained vehicle with less than 85,000 miles. Did have a recall for previous powertrain is... Read more
Incident date: Jun 17, 2025
I am reporting a serious safety concern involving my 2021 Chevrolet Blazer, which experienced brake failure while driving, without any warning lights or diagnostic alerts from the vehicle’s onboard system. This created a highly dangerous situation for myself and others on the road. Prior to this incident, I brought the vehicle to the dealership after consistently hearing squealing or screeching... Read more
Incident date: May 8, 2025
The car basically blew up on the highway at rush hour. BMW knows of this issue with this model and has some of their other models under a recall for this very thing. I have a service action from BMW saying that the water pump assembly needs to be fixed before this very problem occurs but for some reason even though our model is on the service report it isn't on the recall list nor was this part ... Read more
Fire
Incident date: Jun 17, 2025
Front axle boot defective and leaks grease causing steering instability and possible powertrain failure. Dealer charged $475 to fix/replace the part. Upon further research on-line, it is apparent that thousands of 2020 Ford Explorers exhibit the same problem and the manufacturer should be fixing this problem free of charge.
Incident date: Jun 17, 2025
Front axle boot defective and leaks grease causing steering instability and possible powertrain failure. Dealer charged $475 to fix/replace the part. Upon further research on-line, it is apparent that thousands of 2020 Ford Explorers exhibit the same problem and the manufacturer should be fixing this problem free of charge.
Incident date: Jun 11, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while his wife was driving 70 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The check engine warning light and the low oil pressure warning light were illuminated. The contact's wife pulled over to the side of the road. The vehicle was able to restart. The vehicle was then towed to Dennis Automotive Care, where it was diagnosed and determined that the engin... Read more
Incident date: Mar 1, 2025
Let me start by stating that this incident is just one of many occurrences that has happened to me with this vehicle. I was driving down a straight highway that was pretty heavily congested with traffic of other vehicles, when all of a sudden I felt a loss of power with the vehicle and some error codes came up on the dashboard indicating the engine needed to be serviced, start & stop was unavailab... Read more
Incident date: Jun 9, 2025
The contact owns a 2019 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact stated that while his wife was attempting to turn off the vehicle, the vehicle failed to turn off. The message "Shift to Park" was displayed on the screen. The vehicle was left running for thirty minutes before the contact's wife was able to turn off the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The conta... Read more
Incident date: May 23, 2025
This is a large scale problem with Tesla due to their "easy entry" which automatically moves the front seats to fit the drivers saved positions. Due to Tesla not properly securing the wires under the seat, they get crimped over time causing an error of "safety restraint system issue." There have been thousands of reported Teslas with a simple Google search. The service center also stated to me thi... Read more
Incident date: May 23, 2025
This is a large scale problem with Tesla due to their "easy entry" which automatically moves the front seats to fit the drivers saved positions. Due to Tesla not properly securing the wires under the seat, they get crimped over time causing an error of "safety restraint system issue." There have been thousands of reported Teslas with a simple Google search. The service center also stated to me thi... Read more
Incident date: May 23, 2025
The frame has possibly broken in the hitch area. This is a large 5th wheel trailer.
Incident date: Jun 1, 2022
The contact owns a 2013 Nissan Armada. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact's wife, who was occupying the front passenger's side seat noticed that the front passenger's side seat belt failed to retract as needed. Additionally, the contact stated that both the front driver's side and passenger's side seat belts had failed to retract as needed. The dealer was no... Read more
Incident date: Jun 1, 2022
The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked on an incline, the contact started the vehicle and depressed the brake pedal; however, the vehicle started to roll backwards. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was determined that the vacuum booster pump had failed. The local dealer was not con... Read more
Incident date: Jun 1, 2022
My middle row seat belts randomly become disengaged. Even after ensuring they are pushed in all the way. This has happened multiple times and is concerning as I drive my kids around a lot. It has had 10+ times but I took it to the dealer and they said at the time they couldn't replicate it so nothing could be done but it keeps happening! Randomly and without warning.
Incident date: Aug 1, 2024
This incident happened to a 2024 Coachmen Sportscoach SRS339DS (also called model S1A339DS) motor home (RV) built on a Freightliner XCS chassis. Under the specific circumstances surrounding the actual component failure incident, no safety hazard existed--but under different circumstances, failure of the same component could result in a safety hazard with potentially catastrophic consequences. The ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 11, 2025
The contact owns a 2000 Ford Windstar. The contact stated the vehicle failed to start, and the rear glass was out of the frame by about three-quarters of an inch. Additionally, the front driver's and passenger’s side windows failed to go up or roll down and were inoperable. The contact also stated that the instrument panel and anti-theft system were inoperable. The service engine, anti-theft, ov... Read more
Incident date: Apr 15, 2025
This is a major safety issue --- we got an error that steering assistance was "reduced" for about 12 hours. Then on [XXX] at around [XXX], we were pulling out of a parked area (after being parked for 2 hours) -- and proceeded to increase speed on [XXX] in Newark, the car steering wheel abruptly LOCKED ITSELF - you couldn't even move the steering wheel. It just locked and shut down completely. ... Read more
Incident date: Feb 8, 2022
The issue is related to Audi TSB 2048402/3. 2017 Audi Q7 3.0T. First the an engine light appears, then get Drive System Malfunction Warning appears, then car misfires, then car goes into limp mode causing the car to rapidly slow down (while driving on a highway!!!!!). This is is common issue on the 2017 Audi Q7, code is P05A000 Active Grill Shutter "A" Stuck on. Which then triggers the Drive Syst... Read more
Incident date: Jun 11, 2025
The rearview backup camera no longer functions at all. Upon putting the car in reverse, I receive a black screen with glitching colors for a few seconds that turns completely black and gives me an error stating rearview camera is unavailable. There has been no damage recently to the vehicle or any other modifications made, or no other known contributing events, it just stopped working on its own. ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 11, 2025
The rearview backup camera no longer functions at all. Upon putting the car in reverse, I receive a black screen with glitching colors for a few seconds that turns completely black and gives me an error stating rearview camera is unavailable. There has been no damage recently to the vehicle or any other modifications made, or no other known contributing events, it just stopped working on its own. ... Read more
AUDI
A4 ALLROAD
(2020) - SERVICE BRAKES
Jun 10, 2025
Incident date: Jun 9, 2025
Overly sensitive and dangerous abs system when in gravel or uneven surfaces the abs will trigger and basically u lose all stopping power and your steering wheel vibrates I've almost hit something head on and ran through an intersection because of this
Incident date: May 3, 2024
The contact owns a 2021 Cadillac Escalade. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle started jerking significantly. The check engine and traction control warning lights were illuminated, and a message advising of a rear axle failure was displayed. The contact was able to pull over to the side road and turned off the vehicle. The contact did not attempt to restart the vehicle. The vehicl... Read more
Incident date: Jun 10, 2025
While driving the vehicle, the car shut down. Thankfully I was coming to a yield at a round about after exiting the Interstate. I was finally able to get it to restart and proceeded on my way. If this had happened on the Interstate myself, and other drivers would be at risk due to unassisted steering and braking. I also have experienced intermittent periods of "Reduction of Power" while on the int... Read more
Incident date: Jun 10, 2025
While driving the vehicle, the car shut down. Thankfully I was coming to a yield at a round about after exiting the Interstate. I was finally able to get it to restart and proceeded on my way. If this had happened on the Interstate myself, and other drivers would be at risk due to unassisted steering and braking. I also have experienced intermittent periods of "Reduction of Power" while on the int... Read more
Incident date: Jun 9, 2025
The vehicle will hesitate/stall while driving down the road. The vehicle has done this multiple times and has actually shut off on 2 different occasions while at a stop. on 2 occasions now the vehicle has not wanted to start. I have taken vehicle to Mazda dealership and they can never duplicate it. When they check for any codes, the vehicle computer does not give accurate times when happened. This... Read more
Incident date: Jan 1, 2025
A month in after purchasing the check engine light came on. My car did not want to accelerate, started shaking and having jerking movement while driving on the freeway with my newborn and 3 other children in the car with me. Got stranded 3 hours away from home. Car has been in the shop going on 30 days. Spark plugs changed, coolant thermostat changed and now the engine was reported that it has fa... Read more
Incident date: Apr 1, 2025
I purchased a brand new 2025 Subaru Forester Wilderness and immediately noticed a persistent vibration in the steering wheel, seat, and footwell area. The vibration is present at all times — while driving at various speeds and even while idling. It is very distracting and uncomfortable. This ongoing vibration creates a constant sensation of movement that affects my comfort and ability to stay f... Read more
Incident date: Apr 1, 2025
I purchased a brand new 2025 Subaru Forester Wilderness and immediately noticed a persistent vibration in the steering wheel, seat, and footwell area. The vibration is present at all times — while driving at various speeds and even while idling. It is very distracting and uncomfortable. This ongoing vibration creates a constant sensation of movement that affects my comfort and ability to stay f... Read more
Incident date: Apr 1, 2025
I purchased a brand new 2025 Subaru Forester Wilderness and immediately noticed a persistent vibration in the steering wheel, seat, and footwell area. The vibration is present at all times — while driving at various speeds and even while idling. It is very distracting and uncomfortable. This ongoing vibration creates a constant sensation of movement that affects my comfort and ability to stay f... Read more
Incident date: Mar 1, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Ram 1500. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake, traction control, and ABS warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the ABS module had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact r... Read more
Incident date: Feb 1, 2025
Car cuts off when driving the speed drops down automatically stops the dash lights go out and can’t start it right away
Incident date: Feb 1, 2025
Car cuts off when driving the speed drops down automatically stops the dash lights go out and can’t start it right away
Incident date: Apr 15, 2025
While I was driving this vehicle on the highway, the vehicle shut off and the engine light came on
Incident date: Apr 15, 2025
On multiple occasions, when sitting at a stop light and then attempting to drive as the light changes, the engine just shuts off as I take my foot off the brake. It then takes several attempts to get the car started.
Incident date: Apr 15, 2025
Leaking somewhere near condenser for the air conditioning
Incident date: May 8, 2025
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while attempting to register the vehicle, it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 42,000 and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 110,000.
AUDI
A4 ALLROAD
(2020) - POWER TRAIN
Jun 6, 2025
Incident date: Sep 1, 2024
The contact owns a 2017 Jeep Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the battery had drained quickly and failed to retain a charge. The vehicle failed ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 6, 2023
Transmission will slip upon accelerating and down shift without shifting. Causes the truck to pause until it shifts back into gear. This has happened multiple times.
Incident date: Mar 26, 2025
My 2019 Honda CRV steering system is malfunctioning, As I am driving straight the steering wheel wants to turn in either direction without me turning the steering wheel or having any intention of turning at all.I am driving straight, the problem happens at all times at all speeds, I don't feel safe driving my vehicle, I feel it may cause an accident, my vehicle was taken to a local Honda dealer, H... Read more
Incident date: Apr 1, 2025
I had a mechanic take a look at my car for a routine inspection during an oil change. They noticed my alignment was off. They cannot adjust the rear alignment as they are not adjustable. They found a list of older recalls that affect the rear toe link and I checked with Ford to make sure this was done. They confirmed that the recalls were done. Called Ford Customer Service and they advised me to s... Read more
Incident date: Apr 1, 2025
I saw that Ford has issued a recall that affects 2016 and 2017 Ford Explorers due to a B-pillar trim piece that is not properly attached and may separate from the vehicle. My 2018 Ford Explorer also has this issue. Will 2018 Explorers be included in this recall?
Incident date: Apr 1, 2025
Consistent faulty battery warning back in the winter. Recently the brake pedal warning comes up very often, brake also feels like I need to apply more pressure when stopping. The lane assist also always gives me a warning light saying to drive with care.
Incident date: Jun 5, 2025
Vehicle suddenly accelerated after pulling out of store parking lot at low speed into side street behind vehicle stopped at light (less than a car length in front) while pressing hard on brake. Vehicle lurched forward incrementally during the braking process, but vehicle kept accelerating causing vehicle to hit stopped vehicle numerous times before vehicle engine was finally turned off. Driver of... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Jun 5, 2025
The top front grill became detached at highway speeds
Incident date: Jun 5, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH, the contact heard an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle, and a dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the front passenger’s side exterior a pillar trim detached from the vehicle. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and offered no assistance. The contact r... Read more
AUDI
Q4 SPORTBACK E-TRON
(2024) - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jun 4, 2025
Incident date: Apr 22, 2025
The abs module for this vehicle has failed and is a major safety hazard. A known issue that has been on going with this particular part for years. I myself have waited over 6 months with a lemon of a truck because the part is on back order. We have called multiple dealerships and their response has been, “the part is on manufacturing review. “ No recall for this specific part has been issued a... Read more
Incident date: Jun 1, 2025
Documenting a sudden unintended acceleration experience. Today while driving and trying to stop for a red light, I lightly applied pressure on my brake pedal to brake for the red light. Midway through the braking, my car lunged forward for about half a second. Went through the dash cam footage, and I noticed that the footage skipped half a second as well. Seems like something electrical that caus... Read more
Incident date: Jun 3, 2025
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? When driving down a busy road, the car completely stalled with loss of power steering, unable to accelerate or brake, power completely lost in car with all safety lights illuminated on the dashboard. Eventually brakes returned, able to stop car. Unable to restart and loss of power for windows. After... Read more
Incident date: May 14, 2025
The contact owned a 2016 Ford F-350. The contact stated that while driving at 45 MPH, the vehicle was involved in a head-on crash. The air bags did not deploy. No warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a local tow yard. The vehicle was condemned as a total loss by the insurance company. The contact's wife, who is a certified RN took the contact to the local medical center. The ... Read more
Crash
1 injured