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 40,555 complaints for BMW
Incident date: Jun 1, 2021
The tailgate is opening on it's own. There have been many times it has been open and we were not aware until we go to the back of the truck or put the truck in reverse and notice it on the backup camera. We first noticed it happen around Christmas of 2023, and it has been happening randomly since then.
Incident date: Feb 1, 2023
UNKNOWN While driving, the check engine light came on and the car started idling rough. When accelerating the car would shake tremendously, feeling like it would die right there in the middle of the road. When I stopped at where I was going, I checked the oil and there was no oil in the engine. I added oil but it did not help the situation. I made an appointment with the dealership in Waco, Texas... Read more
Incident date: Feb 1, 2023
UNKNOWN While driving, the check engine light came on and the car started idling rough. When accelerating the car would shake tremendously, feeling like it would die right there in the middle of the road. When I stopped at where I was going, I checked the oil and there was no oil in the engine. I added oil but it did not help the situation. I made an appointment with the dealership in Waco, Texas... Read more
Incident date: Dec 4, 2023
When this seat is first installed with the seat belt, it has a tight fit. However, the install seems to loosen for no apparent reason on its own. This occurs frequently. The seat is properly installed with pulling the slack out of the seat belt, securing the snuglock, and then locking the vehicle seat belt. I am concerned that the install will loosen in the event of an accident, and my toddler wil... Read more
Incident date: Jan 28, 2024
The vehicle was repaired under the major engine failure recall. Took the dealer months to replace the engine and now they are reporting the transmission is bad too. The car had absolutely no issues pre engine failure leaving me stranded. From reading up on forums I think transmission failures are just as common as engine leaving you stranded on a busy highway.
Incident date: Feb 3, 2024
The contact owns a 2021 Jeep Wrangler. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V787000 (Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The man... Read more
Incident date: Dec 1, 2023
The trunk keeps opening on its own and it happens even while driving sometimes. I had the car for a year now and it has happened sporadically approximately 10 times since I bought it. I had the key fob replaced and the wiring looked at and was told there should be a recall because the electrical wiring is exposed and gets wet with rain. Corrosion sets in and the wires need replaced. I looked up ot... Read more
Incident date: Jan 29, 2024
See attached document for complaint
Crash
Incident date: Jan 29, 2024
2022 ford raptor. Oil leak passenger side vehicle, Exhaust rattle while idle. Parked vehicle in garage smell oil inside garage, upon inspection found large oil leak on garage floor, when underneath vehicle and found oil leak from cover plate and front axle, steering components. Made a service appointment with local Ford dealership Long Lewis ford Prattville, Al. Vehicle odometer reading on vehicle... Read more
Incident date: Oct 23, 2023
Windshield is original from Volvo but leaks during rain and car washes. Rain floods my driver’s side floor board and heavy enough might effect my electrical system.
Incident date: Jan 24, 2024
EPS fails, the steering wheel becomes very Hard.
Incident date: Jan 2, 2024
My vehicles check engine light came on, and the car started to misfire and idle hard when driving. Jack Furrier Tire and Auto ran the code, and it came back with peoblems with the cam shaft. I brought it to BMW, and VANOS bolt (recall) code was confirmed, but they told me it was a problem with internal piece missing from the oil filter. I asked if the car was safe to drive, and they confirmed and... Read more
Incident date: Jan 2, 2024
Frequent Hard shifting, especially going from 3-4 and 6-7 Frequent Clunking and hard shift from Park to Drive or Park to Reverse While traveling in the interstate at approximately 55-60mph, I had to accelerate hard to merge into traffic. After hitting the gas, the vehicle momentarily lost power, felt like it shifted to neutral as I could not accelerate despite hitting the gas. After a few second... Read more
Incident date: Jan 31, 2024
I am writing this reporting on the active NHTSA Recall Number 23V334, which includes my vehicle. As per the NHTSA's site, an online complaint can be filed if the manufacturer is unable to remedy this safety recall for the vehicle in a timely manner. The recall was issued on May 10, 2023. Today it is February 2, 2024, and is almost a year since the notice. This amount of time for a safety defect th... Read more
Incident date: Jan 1, 2024
Brake booster failed with no warning. Brake pad was hard to push down as I exited the freeway. I came close to hitting the vehicle in front of me which would have resulted in a bad car accident. There were no warning. This is extremely dangerous and is a risk to not only the driver but also to vehicles in the path of a vehicle that cannot stop. This needs to be a recall along with the other vehicl... Read more
Incident date: Jan 1, 2024
2 times on freeway and 1 time on city streets, no vehicles within 100 yards and vehicle came to complete random stop. On freeway, tires skidded it was so abrupt and had neck pains for a few days thereafter. One time also on city street, corrective steering pulled shaply to right almost causing accident. Called hyundai and the representative had no advice or care to even intake the issue for record... Read more
1 injured
Incident date: Feb 3, 2024
The tension release at the bottom of the harness (the switch that's depressed to release tension so the harness can be tightened/loosened while putting the child in it) has a screw holding it to the shell of the seat. This screw backs out over time. There does not appear to be a nut or thread locker used to secure the screw against backing out. The threads do not appear to be stripped upon inspect... Read more
Incident date: Feb 3, 2024
The rear windshield spontaneously cracked/shattered while the car was parked. Had to drive home with a broken windshield and it continued to crack. No warnings or indications that this would happen.
Incident date: Nov 1, 2023
We purchased the car June 3rd 2023. Since purchase the car has given a Check engine light over6 times and the Expansion Valves have been replaced. It has spend 50+ days in service since purchase. On 1/26/24 the High Voltage system light cam eon and the car is back for repairs for 7 days and still not resolved. The automated parking systems are prone to errors and have nearly cased accidents. Lucki... Read more
Incident date: Jul 29, 2023
We purchased the car June 3rd 2023. Since purchase the car has given a Check engine light over6 times and the Expansion Valves have been replaced. It has spend 50+ days in service since purchase. On 1/26/24 the High Voltage system light cam eon and the car is back for repairs for 7 days and still not resolved. The automated parking systems are prone to errors and have nearly cased accidents. Lucki... Read more
Incident date: Jul 29, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that there was fuel leaking from the fuel tank. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who informed the contact about a recall. The contact called the local dealer, who informed him about scheduling an appointment. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact attempted to re... Read more
Incident date: Jul 29, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that there was fuel leaking from the fuel tank. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who informed the contact about a recall. The contact called the local dealer, who informed him about scheduling an appointment. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact attempted to re... Read more
Incident date: Jan 17, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while her husband was driving at an undisclosed speed, the low oil pressure warning light illuminated on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the oil pressure switch. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to Technical Service Bullet... Read more
Incident date: Jan 16, 2024
The contact owns a 2012 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while her son was driving at an undisclosed speed, the power steering feature was inoperable. The contact stated that the failure had occurred two weeks ago. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed power steering assist. The contact was informed that the power steering assist needed to be replaced. The v... Read more
Incident date: Jan 22, 2024
The contact owns a 2024 Kia Telluride. The contact stated that while driving at 5 MPH, the contact enabled the snow traction feature. The contact depressed the accelerator pedal and the vehicle lost motive power. The contact stated that the failure had occurred twice. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure.... Read more
Incident date: Feb 1, 2024
Engine died with no sign. Was told engine had no oil
Incident date: Jan 2, 2024
Multiple codes came on right after I had gotten my thermostat and my water pump fixed. However it ended up being that there was more leaks throughout the rest of the car. The car has currently cost me $3400 to fix and it’s still not fixed because nobody can figure out where the actual leak is coming from. The coolant is leaking and nobody can figure out where, it’s been having jerking issues s... Read more
Incident date: Jan 2, 2024
Vehicle does not detect motorcycles in the blind spot. I did not look over my shoulder and began moving left with a turn signal when I glimpsed a motorcycle next to my vehicle. The motorcycle quickly swerved to the left and I returned to the right lane.
Incident date: Jan 2, 2024
I live in a hands free phone state while driving. My vehicle constantly looses contact between my phone and the vehicle.
Incident date: Nov 4, 2023
The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 MPH, there was smoke coming from the rear of the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle then started losing motive power. After stopping to inspect the vehicle it was discovered that there was transmission fluid leaking from the rear of the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the local deal... Read more
Incident date: Jan 15, 2024
I was driving on a major interstate and my car suddenly stopped shifting the gears to allow for faster speed. RPM's were going up to 6 and 7 and the fastest I could go was 30mph. I confirmed my vehicle was only in Drive, and was not in a "sport mode that allows for manua shifting". Was able to safely get off the interstate and pull over, This could have caused a accident. Shut down vehicle and re... Read more
Incident date: Jan 9, 2021
The contact owns a 2015 Mazda CX9. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 55 MPH, the vehicle shut off. The contact stated that the engine was overheating. The contact restarted the vehicle, and the vehicle stalled again. The vehicle continued to coast into a parking lot. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed tha... Read more
Incident date: Jan 12, 2024
Needs a full transmission replacement and only have 80,000 miles on it. Bought new from dealership in 2019.
Incident date: Feb 1, 2024
The contact owns a 2018 Kia Niro. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V534000 (Power Train) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was m... Read more
Incident date: Nov 1, 2023
The entire computer system does not function. The screen, radio, everything has turned completely off in the middle of driving on the highway. It’s concerning what this will cause at some point. It used to do this intermittently, now it’s completely off and I’ve had it to multiple mechanics who have checked everything thoroughly and cannot find anything wrong. Two mechanics told me in 20-30 ... Read more
Incident date: Feb 1, 2024
Only 18,000 miles driven and they are down to 3/32nds. Unacceptable. Vehicle is a 2022 BMW and tires have been rotated and tire pressure checked weekly. Completely unsafe now.
Incident date: Jan 1, 2022
Rain is coming in from the top of the windshield, making it difficult to see out of the windshield while driving.
Incident date: Jan 25, 2024
The contact owns a 2012 Kia Sorento. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) 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 contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated the ... Read more
Incident date: Aug 8, 2023
The steering is malfunctioning and is available for inspection. The steering wheel is stiff and sticky at high speeds and when driving in a straight line. Before this began, I could move my steering wheel very smoothly to adjust for minor positional changes within my lane. Now, the steering wheel freezes in place, so a very slight left or right position has be veering towards one side. I have to a... Read more
Incident date: Dec 30, 2023
ABS and Traction Control light and alarms activated inside cab on dash. Vehicle taken to dealership and they stated the HCU (hydraulic control unit) needed to be replaced. At that time no parts were available and a time frame was not given because no one had the parts not even after market. After several months of driving vehicle with out ABS or Traction Control vehicle has been fixed.
Incident date: Mar 15, 2023
The driver side seat belt has stopped retracting, stopped working. After researching different Fiat 124 Spider forums, It seems to be a very common issue on this car. I have an appointment with my service center next week. But it's scary to not have a seat belt that works.
Incident date: Jan 14, 2024
On December 27, 2023, vehicle was taken to the service center of the dealership where it was purchased. The primary concern was that the car would at times suddenly launch forward and increase in speed on its own. Employees/repairmen test drove the vehicle, scanned the codes and the concern was not duplicated. On January 14, 2024, when slowing to park this vehicle, it suddenly raced forward, ca... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Jan 14, 2024
Cold weather here apparently caused the rear main seal to blow out and leak all of my oil out of the vehicle very quickly. Now I’m left with a car that will not run, extended warranty will not cover. I’ve read MANY stories of the same exact thing happening to equinoxes. If this is so common why is it not covered? I have 2 small children 6 and under and work full time. I cannot afford a new veh... Read more
Incident date: Jan 14, 2024
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Fusion. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V162000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) 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 contacted and confirmed that the parts were not yet available. The contact stat... Read more
Incident date: Jan 15, 2024
While driving vehicle power steering went completely out and warning message displayed. Control of car was difficult due to know power steering. No prior problems with steering before. have not had problem diagnosed as mechanics are all booked weeks out.
Incident date: Jan 15, 2024
There is a defeat in my Ford catalytic converter. I would like I sent the part to the NHTSA.DOT.GOV for research. I am attaching pictures of the defective product.
Incident date: Jan 31, 2024
10 months ago engine would die 1x/months Then 2x/months Then Weekly Titusville FL dealer changed ignition and wire harness, $865 & no change. 1x/months is now every mile. In Texas. This is dealer ripped me off.
Incident date: Jan 30, 2024
I lost power steering! I was going up a hill with lots of turns, no place to pull over and the steering was worse than anything I have experienced in power steering loss! But my destination was not far away and I could barely turn into the parking lot! I shut off the truck and restarted and the steering came back. I had my truck in for repair for an unrelated problem but had mentioned what happene... Read more
Incident date: Jan 3, 2024
The check engine light goes on and off every few weeks and it would stay off for a few days! The last code I had was P0420 that came up and I had a different one before that and it was for the catalytic converter! So I had already made the appointment to get it checked out and it was a faulty catalytic converter! Luckily my car is still under warranty I didn’t have to pay out of pocket! Had the... Read more