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: Jan 25, 2024
Vehicle was traveling at 55 mph. Vehicle shifted itself into neutral, engine began to rev, vehicle began to slow to approximately 50 mph, engine shut off at 50 mph, vehicle immediately locked brakes up and skidded to a stop in middle of highway. Vehicle would not turn back on initially. After a minute or so, vehicle restarted but showed that it was still in drive, had to be placed into park before... Read more
AUDI
E-TRON SPORTBACK
(2022) - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jan 30, 2024
Incident date: Jan 30, 2024
When driving through the a parking lot on my way to work, my brand new Wrangler with just over 1000 miles stalled/stopped running and lost power steering and wouldn’t restart for about 10 mins. I got a bunch of error messages but I can’t remember them all but one was about servicing the charging station (it wasn’t plugged in) and I had a check engine light stay on after I finally got it to s... Read more
Incident date: Mar 1, 2023
Paint on my vehicle is changing on the roof and trunk is like the paint coating has worn off and the vehicle roof and trunk are peeling off.
Incident date: Nov 9, 2023
The contact owns a 2022 Tesla Model S. The contact stated that while reversing in her driveway, the front driver's side camera did not indicate there was a gate in the viewing area. The driver crashed into a metal gate on her property. The front bumper was damaged. There was no beeping sound while approaching the object. There were no warning lights illuminated. There were no reported injuries. Th... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Jan 2, 2024
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Flex. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, the contact lost control of the vehicle with an unknown yellow warning light on the instrument panel. The contact's partner was called to the scene and upon inspection of the vehicle, both rear wheels were misaligned. Due to the failure, the vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed with a fractured toe link. Up... Read more
Incident date: Jan 2, 2024
The air ride suspension system failed after a stretch of below-freezing temperatures, the front end was lowered and the rear end elevated. The vehicle had 91k miles on it and required a new compressor and valve block.
Incident date: Jan 25, 2024
The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA250. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V732000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic, Equipment); 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 dealer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was made aware of... Read more
Incident date: Jan 25, 2024
Sep 22,2023 Manufacturer Recall Number251 NHTSA Recall Number23V651000 This recall was issued over 4 months ago and a remedy is still not available.
Incident date: Nov 7, 2023
235/60R18 103H On January 20 and January 21, we were coming back from road travel on Long Island, New York and received a low-pressure indicator. We serviced the tires and did not have an issue until Wednesday January 24 again a low-pressure indicator. We took the vehicle to Mr. Tire in Lewes Delaware and were told the same tire had a second puncture but all the tires had low wear and extensive c... Read more
Incident date: Jan 28, 2024
On [XXX], I was driving southbound on the highway near Elizabeth City, NC when all of a sudden, my vehicle decelerated from 65 mph to 20 mph (limp mode) with no warning except for the sudden onset of a knocking noise in the engine compartment and the check engine light coming on immediately before entering limp mode. I was in the passing lane and thankfully was able to safely make it to the should... Read more
Incident date: Jan 28, 2024
On 1/24/2024 I experienced an issue with "sticky steering" which made my vehicle difficult and unsafe to drive. I felt that it was difficult to keep my vehicle in a single lane. This issue has already been reported to the NHTSA by other owners of the same vehicle. The vehicle is scheduled to have the issue reviewed on 2/5/2024 at the selling dealership. There were no warning lamps when this issue ... Read more
Incident date: Jan 28, 2024
Battery has been dead,if sitting acouple of days of not driving,charge it up and in acouple of days it's is dead again,seem the data communication module(DCM) IS what is drawing the Battery dead
Incident date: Dec 17, 2023
The vehicles battery does not hold a charge during short term, (3-5 weeks of storage). I understand that some prior years of Subaru vehicles have this same problem and there is currently a recall for this. I wonder if this battery problem exists in newer Subaru Foresters. When we purchased this vehicle as new we observed that the Dealership was having problems maintaining the charge on at least... Read more
Incident date: Jan 25, 2024
Fault: "Service Anti-Lock Brake System" warning light appears intermittently Fault Code: C0020-01 ABS Pump Motor Control General Electric Failure - The above problem resulted in unexpected loss of ABS brake control, loss of Traction control and 4-wheel drive during hazardous driving conditions where these features are highly required, causing us to narrowly avoid pedestrians and other nearby vehi... Read more
Incident date: Jan 24, 2024
LOSS OF ELECTRICAL POWER STEERING Automatic cruise control affected- not working. Does not maintain speed when using DRCC. mechanic states there is a problem with ECU response. loud revving sound heard after repeated attempts to use DRCC my other 2015 toyota camry base was affected and approved for repair still awaiting recall for this 2015 toyota camry XLE
Incident date: Jan 19, 2024
I am experiencing coolant leaks possibly due to head gasket or engine bolt malfunction. I have received and extended warranty letter from kia but the dealers are saying kia has not provided a solution. The extended warranty is for 15 year/180,000 miles. I am currently at 172,000 miles and am concerned by the time a solution is provided to the dealer i will be out of the warranty period.
Incident date: Jan 19, 2024
I acquired the Ford Focus 2017 from Envision Toyota in Milpitas, California, in November 2022. In August 2023, the vehicle experienced an engine failure at 53,000 miles. Subsequently, the car was at the Ford dealership for an extended period until the engine replacement was completed by the end of October 2023. Upon retrieving the car on [XXX], 2023, I encountered various issues, including coolant... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Jan 19, 2024
Had 2 rims develop cracks causing loss of air pressure in tires. 1st occurred at approx. 45000 miles (2019), 2nd occurred at 110000 (2023). Both failures occurred to area of rim where welds to lock in center (with lug holes) on outer rim (where tire sits) are situated. Both failures manifested as small air leak then suddenly crack increases in size dramatically to where tire can only hold air for... Read more
AUDI
Q4 E-TRON SPORTBACK
(2023) - EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
Jan 23, 2024
Incident date: Nov 27, 2023
The contact owns a 2012 Cadillac SRX. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed at night, she became aware that the headlamps were extremely dim, affecting nighttime visibility. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determined that condensation had become trapped in the headlamp housing, resulting in damages to the headlight housing. The c... Read more
Incident date: Dec 19, 2023
Drivers side inside door welds have broken loose at catch arm attachment. Related to Ford TSB SSM 50150. Car bought used 1/6/2024 but previously used as a rental in another state. Car has approximately 64,500 miles. Door failure occurred 1/19/2024. Bought from out of town dealer and inspected by local Ford dealer who verified issue. No prior signs leading up to the failure. Neither dealer agrees ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 5, 2023
The window regulator cables for all windows have failed multiple times, even after taking it to the dealership and paying to have this defect “fixed” they fail again. Now the only working window is the drivers and I cannot afford to have the other 3 fixed which is a safety hazard if an emergency were to happen. This is a manufacturer defect and there needs to be a recall done.
Incident date: Jan 20, 2024
Doors on truck will not latch as they freeze in the cold weather. This has been an ongoing issue since 2019. I have brought it to the dealership and they say there is no recalls. I have to use a ratchet strap to keep my door from opening! This is extremely unsafe! When you go under Ford’s site there are other trucks having the same issue and they say to go to the dealership to fix the issue. I... Read more
Incident date: Oct 27, 2023
At times vehicle hesitates or doesn't responses when accelerator is pushed. Has occurred several times when moving into traffic from a yield lane or stop. Fortunately it hasn't lead to an accident but was very scary. Researching this problem on-line, this has been reported by many Sorento owners. This is an intermittent problem and when vehicle is taken to the dealer they report they can not dupli... Read more
Incident date: Jan 20, 2024
At times vehicle hesitates or doesn't responses when accelerator is pushed. Has occurred several times when moving into traffic from a yield lane or stop. Fortunately it hasn't lead to an accident but was very scary. Researching this problem on-line, this has been reported by many Sorento owners. This is an intermittent problem and when vehicle is taken to the dealer they report they can not dupli... Read more
Incident date: Jan 20, 2024
At times vehicle hesitates or doesn't responses when accelerator is pushed. Has occurred several times when moving into traffic from a yield lane or stop. Fortunately it hasn't lead to an accident but was very scary. Researching this problem on-line, this has been reported by many Sorento owners. This is an intermittent problem and when vehicle is taken to the dealer they report they can not dupli... Read more
Incident date: Jul 10, 2023
It had snowed in DC area. Vehicle was in snow mode, idle at stop light. When light turned green, slow acceleration turning left and then when pressing down on pedal, all acceleration stopped. Roads were cleared with no signs of snow or ice. Frightened driver and children in vehicle. Were able to coast to the side of the road, turned off vehicle and restarted and able to drive off. Clearly seems to... Read more
AUDI
Q4 E-TRON SPORTBACK
(2022) - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jan 20, 2024
Incident date: Jan 11, 2024
Kia still doesn't have a remedy for the recall. It is 2024. I am still at risk
AUDI
Q4 E-TRON SPORTBACK
(2022) - SERVICE BRAKES
Jan 20, 2024
Incident date: Jan 11, 2024
Kia still doesn't have a remedy for the recall. It is 2024. I am still at risk
Incident date: Dec 20, 2023
Shortly after purchase, one of the factory tires had a side bulge. The dealer indicated in their opinion, was from a pot hole. However when they checked the rim, it was not damaged. I had tire replaced. Then at 39K miles, all the the other tires were already getting worn out. I've NEVER had tires wear about pre-40K miles in all my life. At local belle tire, they told me that the Hankook tires that... Read more
Incident date: Jan 3, 2024
Driver's side rearview mirror smashed by vandal. This is because of having to park away from structures due to Hyundai's recall # 251. The original recall notice was apparently dated 9/22/23, but no remedy is yet available. That's 4 months, and it's creating great hardship for me and probably many others. I am afraid to use my car because of possible engine fire and damage to people or other c... Read more
Incident date: Jan 18, 2024
2022 NIRO EV PHANTOM BREAKING WARRENTY DENIED WITH NO DAMAGE VISABLE What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? ACC SYSTEMS UNKNOWN KIA CLAIMS MY FRONT RADAR BRACKET IS OFF 1.9 DEGREES. THEY STATE THEIR NO NO PHYSICAL DAMAGE The text stating there was no damage, but Kia wants the bracket replaced, that’s reasonable but why they want you ... Read more
Incident date: Jan 11, 2024
The contact owns a 2022 Buick Envision. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH and coming to a red light, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to stop immediately. The contact shifted to neutral before the vehicle came to a complete stop. The engine continued to rev abnormally as if the vehicle was accelerating. After several minutes, the engine stopped re... Read more
Incident date: Jan 11, 2024
The contact owns a 2022 Buick Envision. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH and coming to a red light, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to stop immediately. The contact shifted to neutral before the vehicle came to a complete stop. The engine continued to rev abnormally as if the vehicle was accelerating. After several minutes, the engine stopped re... Read more
Incident date: Jan 4, 2024
On June 9, 2023, the owner purchased a brand-new 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid from Quirk Kia Braintree. Over the next six months, the owner regularly drove the car between work and home, accumulating approximately 4,500 miles. However, in early January 1st 2024, the owner noticed that the check engine light had illuminated, although there were no other noticeable issues with the vehicle at that time.... Read more
Incident date: Jan 4, 2024
The contact owns a 2023 Fisker Ocean. The contact stated that messages indicating that the Forward Collision Avoidance cameras and sensors, and the regenerative braking system failure were displayed. The contact stated that the messages disappeared after the vehicle went into a deep sleep mode. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring intermittently. Additionally, the contact stated ... Read more
Incident date: Jan 15, 2024
The contact owns a 1998 Chevrolet Corvette. The contact stated that while the vehicle was with a local transmission mechanic for service, the technician was reversing out of the service bay when the Service Column warning light illuminated. No other warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to another local mechanic but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified ... Read more
Incident date: Jan 16, 2024
I have a concerning noise from my car's engine that I’ve already brought in for diagnosis. Knocking/ticking/rattling noise on stand-still acceleration at relatively low speeds/under light load. Does not duplicate when revving in park, only under light load. Sound present with HVAC on or off. Does not make noise when cold or after long trips. Honda seems to be aware of this issue and has remed... Read more
Incident date: Jan 14, 2024
There has been a recall out on my vehicle for the past 6 months. Previous to this recall being announced by Volkswagen I had issues with my vehicle starting, the dealership determined it was the ignition switch and replaced it out of my pocket. Since this recall being out I have noticed the same issue starting to come back. I have been in person to my local dealership and spoken to many managers ... Read more
Incident date: Jan 14, 2024
Car randomly stalls in park, when reversing, when in drive but brake is being applied, or when first accelerating after putting into drive. Several times now it has stalled when I'm at stop lights. One time it stalled after just tapping the brake while approaching a stop light. That was terrifying because the car was still in motion. Also, car randomly jerks hard when shifting gears. Recently, car... Read more
Incident date: Jan 14, 2024
Car randomly stalls in park, when reversing, when in drive but brake is being applied, or when first accelerating after putting into drive. Several times now it has stalled when I'm at stop lights. One time it stalled after just tapping the brake while approaching a stop light. That was terrifying because the car was still in motion. Also, car randomly jerks hard when shifting gears. Recently, car... Read more
Incident date: Jan 14, 2024
The steering wheel of my Honda Accord Hybrid model 2023 is sticky. When driving at about 50 miles per hour or more, the steering wheel is sticky, and when rotating, it suddenly becomes stuck. I need to correct the steering wheel all the time, which greatly affects my safety
Incident date: Dec 27, 2023
Vehicle has been parked for 3 months will not start. Needs engine. Recently seen recall on 2018 Ford Focus. This recall is not on my car but am sure that is what called engine failure.
Incident date: Dec 27, 2023
2017 Hyundai Sonata with 108,600 miles, has experienced oil consumption/burning, since at least 85k miles. Costs outside of manufacturers recommendation: *Oil consumption report ($85) *Extensive engine cleaning ($500) -Hyundai considers 1 quart consumed per 1000 miles, acceptable. *Rod bearing clearance test ($140) **Engine replacement (reason for complaint, will cost $3880) Hyundai dealership... Read more
Incident date: Dec 27, 2023
While the vehicle is running is hard to turn left and the steering wheel got stuck turning left at any speed..!!! This problem happens very frequently sense the date of purchase..!! The vehicle currently has 100541 miles
Incident date: Jul 14, 2023
Submitted complaint of unsafe fumes /gas smells emitting from engine and into cabin of car to site on 10/23/2023 for my vin the complaint I see is under Tires This should be under engine I said nothing about tires it's a 2012 Hyundai Genesis BH 4 door sedan battery wasn't holding charge engine idles high and low poor gas mileage and sluggish brake light always on even after repair
Incident date: Oct 3, 2023
I have the plaid version… and this care wears out the rear ties within 12-14 thousand miles.. which is super fast and you can’t tell because it’s the inside of the tire. The metal shoes and is potentially dangerous and life threatening
Incident date: Jan 13, 2024
Rear self leveling suspension has gotten stiff and creates a severely rough and uncomfortable ride, especially when in the middle or third row. It can be jolting. I had the TSB 113 repair completed and ride is moderately better, but still very stiff. TSB 113 eliminated the clunking in the rear end but the ride is so stiff it creates discomfort for the occupants.
Incident date: Jan 10, 2024
The 2021 Kona SEL PLUS AT AWD suddenly changed into the manual low gear and abruptly stalled in traffic. The Kona was stopped at a traffic light. When the traffic light turned green and the car was driven, the Kona's transmission seemed to switch into the manual low gear creating a high RPM. After it crossed the intersection, the Kona stalled and stopped abruptly in traffic. Shortly thereafter, th... Read more
Incident date: Nov 15, 2023
Both the UPPER and LOWER active grille shutters for most BMW models in the 5 model years prior to mine had extended service warranties due to frequent failures of the part. It appears that the design was not improved with my model year and yet my vehicle is NOT part of the extended warranty. My vehicle is only 4 years old and BOTH the upper and lower air flap control motors have failed. The mot... Read more
Incident date: Nov 15, 2023
The primary instrument gauge for the QX80 starts to lose illumination from around the speedometer and tachometer. The vehicle has 55,000 miles and is a 2018 model. This is the SECOND time this has happened, with the instrument gauge being replaced first at approximately 32,000 miles for the same reason. Currently the instrument gauge is continuing to lose lighting - making the speedometer impos... Read more