Consumer Safety Complaints
Search 2,215,138 safety complaints filed by vehicle owners with NHTSA — including 138,663 crashes, 56,255 fires, and 8,561 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 2,215,138 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 15,943 complaints for AUDI
Incident date: Jan 31, 2026
02/04/2026 69k miles. I brought my vehicle in because I got a check engine light on the dash and had loss of power. Was informed that my fuel pump had failed and sent metal shards through the whole fuel system. The damage was covered by the recall, which also included reprogramming of the tcm and pcm. Was then told that the reflash of those systems was a failure, and that the Ford Motor Company wa... Read more
Incident date: Oct 1, 2024
Eyesight camera randomly turns off and on while driving. Has been consistent over several months pierced to be an ongoing issue that was previously recorded from 20 14–20 21 super Forrester. Very similar issue now with my 2023.
Incident date: Sep 9, 2025
The vehicle exhibits multiple critical safety defects that pose a severe risk to my life and the lives of my children. Most notably, the steering system performs sudden, unintended maneuvers and the steering wheel moves with dangerous abruptness without driver input. Additionally, severe electrical failures frequently prevent the doors from opening or the vehicle from powering down, creating a hig... Read more
Incident date: Sep 9, 2025
RE: NHTSA Recall Number 25V668 Defective Unsafe 2025 Toyota Sienna 2nd row seat rails. I purchased a brand new 2025 TOYOTA Sienna Hybrid on May 20th, 2025 as a family vehicle to transport my grandchildren in their car safety seats. In July, Toyota discovered that the 2nd row seat rails were defective and posed a serious safety risk. Dealers were sent a DO NOT SELL notice on October 7th for the un... Read more
Incident date: Sep 9, 2025
The contact owns a 2025 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the engine revved, and while idling, there was a knocking sound coming from the engine. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and was diagnosed with bearing damage caused by a defective connecting rod and rod bearings, which caused the engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced... Read more
Incident date: Mar 12, 2026
Car startup just fine and drive without issues but sometimes center console freezes or randomly restarts and when that happen even speedometer stays at zero even car moving about 30-40mph. It stays in frozen state for about 2-3min or unless I force restart it by holding power button for about 10-20seconds. I have seen backup camera sometimes failed to display images which supposed to resolved in l... Read more
Incident date: Mar 26, 2026
My vehicle has now experienced a serious electrical malfunction a few times, including one again today. Each time, the car suddenly loses power and drops to 40 mph, the steering wheel shakes, and all warning lights come on. This is extremely dangerous and puts my safety—and the safety of others—at risk. The Car is Brand new and has about 1200 miles. I took the car in previously, and the dealer... Read more
Incident date: Mar 26, 2026
The engine. I’m told my engine is not part of the recall but makes an extremely loud sound on start up. Been to dealer just for them to say the vehicle is not part of the recall. Recently called roadside assistance because the vehicle shut off in the middle of traffic. Took it back to dealer, Nothing they can do, just keep bringing it back! Now warranty has expired & sound is getting worse
Incident date: Mar 26, 2026
The engine. I’m told my engine is not part of the recall but makes an extremely loud sound on start up. Been to dealer just for them to say the vehicle is not part of the recall. Recently called roadside assistance because the vehicle shut off in the middle of traffic. Took it back to dealer, Nothing they can do, just keep bringing it back! Now warranty has expired & sound is getting worse
Incident date: Feb 25, 2026
I am reporting a recurring safety issue involving sudden loss of power while driving in my 2023 Ford Escape. The vehicle has experienced multiple incidents where, while accelerating or pulling into traffic, it suddenly loses power, hesitates, or fails to respond to the accelerator. In some cases, the RPM drops unexpectedly, and the vehicle will not move or respond for several seconds. After this ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 24, 2026
For several months I have been having problems off and on with my vehicle not shifting into drive, neutral, or reverse. It runs fine but becomes undrivable. Until this last time, I was always able to keep trying, let it sit overnight, etc... and it would eventually shift into gear. Currently it does not, I had to have it towed to a shop to be repaired. This is a problem, the vehicle has left m... Read more
Incident date: Mar 22, 2026
The contact owns a 2024 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while driving and coming to a stop, the vehicle shuddered and jerked unexpectedly. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and was test-driven, and the failure was duplicated. The dealer replaced the transmission control module and reprogrammed the transmission; however, the failure persisted. The v... Read more
Incident date: Aug 5, 2025
The passenger doors fail to open from the outside. The only way to access them is through the driver's door and to use the inside door handles. The dealer is aware of the issue and it was caused by a software update and Audi/VW have no confirmed fix for it. The cruise control does not always operate and gives an erroneous error stating "door open." The dealer has confirmed this error and states t... Read more
Incident date: Aug 5, 2025
The passenger doors fail to open from the outside. The only way to access them is through the driver's door and to use the inside door handles. The dealer is aware of the issue and it was caused by a software update and Audi/VW have no confirmed fix for it. The cruise control does not always operate and gives an erroneous error stating "door open." The dealer has confirmed this error and states t... Read more
Incident date: Aug 5, 2025
We have already filed a report regarding multiple unresolved warranty defects that Ford Motor Company has refused to address for over a year. Among these is a recurring fuel pump failure—an issue that has now occurred multiple times. The most recent incident happened just a couple of weeks ago in the Twin Cities after being told by our dealer that there was not an issue or fix for the fuel pump ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 21, 2026
I am experiencing repeated and unpredictable software failures in my vehicle that create serious safety concerns. While driving, the vehicle will intermittently trigger system faults that: •Disable advanced safety features (including driver assistance systems) without warning •Emit a frequent, high-pitched warning tone that is distracting and disruptive •Occur mid-drive, forcing me to manag... Read more
Incident date: Mar 21, 2026
I am experiencing repeated and unpredictable software failures in my vehicle that create serious safety concerns. While driving, the vehicle will intermittently trigger system faults that: •Disable advanced safety features (including driver assistance systems) without warning •Emit a frequent, high-pitched warning tone that is distracting and disruptive •Occur mid-drive, forcing me to manag... Read more
Incident date: Mar 21, 2026
I was driving the truck and suddenly smoke came out from behind the radio. I stopped and checked and saw that the truck was on fire. I immediately tried to turn it off with the few water bottles that I had with me. I had no luck and the entire truck burned up.
Fire
Incident date: Feb 2, 2026
The contact owns a 2015 GMC Acadia. The contact stated that the automatic alert system anti-theft system locked up. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start. Additionally, the safety sensors in the mirror and the rear of the vehicle became inoperable. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed and it was determined that the driv... Read more
AUDI
SQ6 E-TRON
(2025) — POWER TRAIN
Mar 24, 2026
Incident date: Jan 1, 2026
Yes. The vehicle has experienced multiple critical system failures, most notably involving a defective SX6 module, which is a central control unit responsible for coordinating key electronic, safety, and communication systems. Its failure has led to widespread issues, including persistent warning messages, driver assistance malfunctions, MMI system instability, and ultimately a complete high-volta... Read more
AUDI
SQ6 E-TRON
(2025) — FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Mar 24, 2026
Incident date: Jan 1, 2026
Yes. The vehicle has experienced multiple critical system failures, most notably involving a defective SX6 module, which is a central control unit responsible for coordinating key electronic, safety, and communication systems. Its failure has led to widespread issues, including persistent warning messages, driver assistance malfunctions, MMI system instability, and ultimately a complete high-volta... Read more
AUDI
SQ6 E-TRON
(2025) — ENGINE
Mar 24, 2026
Incident date: Jan 1, 2026
On [03/23/2026], while traveling at 79 mph in high-speed highway traffic, my 2022 Cadillac Escalade suffered a sudden, total engine seizure and complete loss of propulsion. This catastrophic failure occurred without any prior warning lamps or symptoms. The loss of motive power at highway speeds created an immediate life-threatening situation, forcing me to navigate through traffic to the shoulder ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 20, 2026
On March 20, 2026, while my 2022 Audi Q4 e-tron (VIN: [XXX] ) was parked in my private garage at approximately 98% battery charge, I attempted to start the vehicle and experienced a complete electrical system failure. All electronic systems failed simultaneously, including: brake system (Brake System Failure warning displayed), parking brake sensor, traffic/charging system, power windows, and side... Read more
Incident date: Mar 20, 2026
On March 20, 2026, while my 2022 Audi Q4 e-tron (VIN: [XXX] ) was parked in my private garage at approximately 98% battery charge, I attempted to start the vehicle and experienced a complete electrical system failure. All electronic systems failed simultaneously, including: brake system (Brake System Failure warning displayed), parking brake sensor, traffic/charging system, power windows, and side... Read more
Incident date: Mar 20, 2026
The vehicle accelerated without input and the brakes failed to respond. I am notifying you that this vehicle is a life-threatening safety risk and should not be rented again until a master technician clears the electronic throttle control and breaking system. This condition presents a serious safety risk and could lead to a car crash or injury. Additionally, the vehicles, climate control system be... Read more
Incident date: Mar 21, 2026
2020 Volkswagen Passat SE 2.0L VIN: [XXX] Complaint Summary: I am reporting a persistent and unresolved fault involving the secondary air injection system (DTC P0491 – insufficient airflow) that has resulted in repeated, conflicting diagnoses across multiple repair facilities. This raises concerns about a potential systemic defect affecting this vehicle model. Detailed Description: The issue... Read more
Incident date: Mar 20, 2026
am writing to report a very concerning safety issue with my 2019 Audi Q5 and to request guidance on whether this may be covered under warranty or if my vehicle is experiencing a malfunction. On Saturday, while driving to an appointment, there was a bicyclist in the bike lane. Suddenly, the “Audi Presence” warning flashed red on my dashboard and the vehicle braked very hard on its own. I was n... Read more
Incident date: Mar 20, 2026
The transmission shifted unexpectedly from highway speed to first gear. The back wheels felt like they locked up and my passenger asked if we had been hit.
Incident date: Mar 21, 2026
WHile trying to park 2025 Q7 the vehicle accelerated without warning and adaptive cruise flashed quickly then disappeared. I was the driver and had a passanger along. THis incedent repeated itself within 30 mins. I am not comfortable driving the car..
Incident date: Mar 21, 2026
WHile trying to park 2025 Q7 the vehicle accelerated without warning and adaptive cruise flashed quickly then disappeared. I was the driver and had a passanger along. THis incedent repeated itself within 30 mins. I am not comfortable driving the car..
Incident date: Mar 21, 2026
WHile trying to park 2025 Q7 the vehicle accelerated without warning and adaptive cruise flashed quickly then disappeared. I was the driver and had a passanger along. THis incedent repeated itself within 30 mins. I am not comfortable driving the car..
Incident date: Mar 22, 2026
On March 22, 2026, my Check Engine light came on while driving my 2022 Audi A3. Prior to this, I had been noticing a slight jerk when accelerating from a stop. Because Audi dealerships charge approximately $250 just to read diagnostic codes, I went to Discount Auto Parts, where they retrieved code P27F500 — indicating the gear shift lock solenoid is stuck in the open position. I then contacted m... Read more
Incident date: Mar 20, 2026
Gas pump shuts off and stops pumping fuel into my car with a loud hissing noise before it shuts down the pump. I can not properly fill my vehicle with gas. This is not a single incident it is an ongoing problem.
Incident date: Jan 21, 2026
I am filing a safety complaint regarding a progressive engine defect. Beginning as early as 2019 (approximately 84,000 miles), I repeatedly reported excessive oil consumption and related engine concerns to authorized Audi dealerships. These complaints continued over several years. At no point was I informed that these symptoms could be associated with a known defect pattern or progressive engine ... Read more
AUDI
E-TRON SPORTBACK
(2022) — SERVICE BRAKES
Mar 21, 2026
Incident date: Mar 5, 2026
I own a 2022 Audi e-tron Sportback that experienced multiple serious issues involving the high-voltage battery system. During service at Audi South Atlanta, the dealership documented diagnostic trouble code P29FF00 – Hybrid/EV Battery Thermal Runaway Detected. This code is related to battery overheating and potential thermal runaway, which is a critical safety condition in electric vehicles. D... Read more
AUDI
E-TRON SPORTBACK
(2022) — POWER TRAIN
Mar 21, 2026
Incident date: Mar 5, 2026
I own a 2022 Audi e-tron Sportback that experienced multiple serious issues involving the high-voltage battery system. During service at Audi South Atlanta, the dealership documented diagnostic trouble code P29FF00 – Hybrid/EV Battery Thermal Runaway Detected. This code is related to battery overheating and potential thermal runaway, which is a critical safety condition in electric vehicles. D... Read more
AUDI
E-TRON SPORTBACK
(2022) — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Mar 21, 2026
Incident date: Mar 5, 2026
I own a 2022 Audi e-tron Sportback that experienced multiple serious issues involving the high-voltage battery system. During service at Audi South Atlanta, the dealership documented diagnostic trouble code P29FF00 – Hybrid/EV Battery Thermal Runaway Detected. This code is related to battery overheating and potential thermal runaway, which is a critical safety condition in electric vehicles. D... Read more
Incident date: Jan 22, 2025
Our electrical system is going craze. The electronic door handles will lock us in and out of the car, the instrument cluster will black out for periods, safety sensors go off at random, other screens in car will black out leaving controls in operable, and wireless car charger will heat the phone so hot that we have been burnt. We have take to the dealer several times. Some visits they claim they c... Read more
Incident date: Jan 22, 2025
Our electrical system is going craze. The electronic door handles will lock us in and out of the car, the instrument cluster will black out for periods, safety sensors go off at random, other screens in car will black out leaving controls in operable, and wireless car charger will heat the phone so hot that we have been burnt. We have take to the dealer several times. Some visits they claim they c... Read more
Incident date: Jan 22, 2025
Our electrical system is going craze. The electronic door handles will lock us in and out of the car, the instrument cluster will black out for periods, safety sensors go off at random, other screens in car will black out leaving controls in operable, and wireless car charger will heat the phone so hot that we have been burnt. We have take to the dealer several times. Some visits they claim they c... Read more
Incident date: Feb 17, 2026
There appears to be a software problem with the car. On the display, there are malfunction messages about the airbags and safety features.
Incident date: Feb 17, 2026
There appears to be a software problem with the car. On the display, there are malfunction messages about the airbags and safety features.
Incident date: Feb 17, 2026
There appears to be a software problem with the car. On the display, there are malfunction messages about the airbags and safety features.
Incident date: Feb 26, 2026
I owned the car for two weeks when I had my dog in the front and it automatic braked going down the freeway. It threw him into the screen and broke it, luckily he was ok. (He was belted in.) This has happened three more times and been inspected but they are not able to reproduce the problem. This only happens when the dog is in the car with me. This last time, the dog hit the dash and screen ag... Read more
Incident date: Jan 14, 2026
The Audi e-tron GT contains a design defect where the 12v battery cannot be charged in the event it becomes depleted. The battery is stored in the front trunk, but this can only be opened when the car has electrical power - there is no manual release. This leaves the vehicle immobilized to the point it must be towed to a dealer using special equipment because the four wheel drive train is locked i... Read more
Incident date: Jan 23, 2026
The ADAS is not working properly. Adaptive cruise control, emergency assist, lane departure, active front assist, distance warning, traffic sign recognition, adaptive light, etc. are all not working. The check engine light is illuminated, the key fob would not open car (not a battery issue) and the seat belt tensioner is not working properly. Those ADAS features are there for a reason and that is... Read more
Incident date: Jan 23, 2026
The ADAS is not working properly. Adaptive cruise control, emergency assist, lane departure, active front assist, distance warning, traffic sign recognition, adaptive light, etc. are all not working. The check engine light is illuminated, the key fob would not open car (not a battery issue) and the seat belt tensioner is not working properly. Those ADAS features are there for a reason and that is... Read more
Incident date: Jan 23, 2026
The ADAS is not working properly. Adaptive cruise control, emergency assist, lane departure, active front assist, distance warning, traffic sign recognition, adaptive light, etc. are all not working. The check engine light is illuminated, the key fob would not open car (not a battery issue) and the seat belt tensioner is not working properly. Those ADAS features are there for a reason and that is... Read more
Incident date: Mar 4, 2026
Audi A5 Quattro Purchased new 06/2025. Dealer = Audi Lakeland 1215 Griffen Road Lakeland, FL 33805 Phone: (863) 284-0880 Contact = Service Manager Gary Downey Tire = Bridgestone Turanza LS100 235/45R18 98H REO (Extra Load) Run Flat Tire Tire also includes “Enliten” - don’t know if that is part of model name Brought vehicle ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 5, 2026
I had 93u9 criteria 04 recall done in February. As of March 6, I had a no power supply message. Without being able to charge it went to the dealer. They said it was the charge port assembly but not from the recall since that was software. Once that was fixed they charged the car and it immediately had the fault electrical malfunction. Now they say i need to replace the rear drive motor. Then thy c... Read more