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: Jan 1, 2026
I was just driving regular and the rx350 started to jerk and apply the breaks by itself and slip and go side ways and the car behind me almost hit me because my Lexus started to stop hard and fast .im pressing the gas but it’s not accelerating.the engine wanted to stop and very dangerous I’m scared to even drive the vehicle.i am the 3rd owner and now i know why the otheer people don’t want i... Read more
Incident date: Jan 1, 2026
The ignition start is not clean and delayed. There is already a recall 25V-644. There is "No remedy available" for this model per inquiry with local BMW dealer in Buffalo NY 14221 made 3 weeks ago. I am fearful of an electrical fire from overheating. I do smell an intermittent burning smell but it may in the outside environment rather than from under my hood.
Incident date: Jan 31, 2026
My 2011 Grand Sport Corvette fuel system was repaired on 2/14/22 at no cost to me by special policy 15682-03. Now, 4 years later, the same problem has occurred again. I notice fuel smell in my garage with the tank nearly full after fill-up, and upon inspection, I notice evidence of fuel leaking along the side of the primary tank behind the driver's seat which is the same problem encountered befo... Read more
Incident date: Jan 31, 2026
Due to the terrible turbo v design my n63 engine , stalls, throws misfire codes, tranny malfunctioning codes , lean fuel codes , it’s truly dangerous to drive . The vehicle sits at 101250 miles that’s driven less than 10k miles per year since it was produced and I was totally mislead , unfairly charged for something that was deemed to be great & life changing but it has been the total opposite... Read more
Incident date: Jan 31, 2026
Due to the terrible turbo v design my n63 engine , stalls, throws misfire codes, tranny malfunctioning codes , lean fuel codes , it’s truly dangerous to drive . The vehicle sits at 101250 miles that’s driven less than 10k miles per year since it was produced and I was totally mislead , unfairly charged for something that was deemed to be great & life changing but it has been the total opposite... Read more
Incident date: Oct 5, 2025
While driving, ABS, traction control, ESC, forward collision, and AWD alerts were indicated by the car. At the time it had 10 months in service and approximately 12,800 miles accumulated. After 17 days at the dealers service department and a direct call to GM the brake master cylinder and associated components were replaced. I've seen several reports of this generation of Traverse having this same... Read more
Incident date: Oct 5, 2025
My car was totaled, I lost steering assistance, and it switched off while I was driving. The car was the subject of an open recall. I need this looked at because it might be a crash caused by a fault.
Crash
Incident date: Oct 5, 2025
My car was totaled, I lost steering assistance, and it switched off while I was driving. The car was the subject of an open recall. I need this looked at because it might be a crash caused by a fault.
Crash
Incident date: Dec 31, 2025
The contact owns a 2022 Ford F-150. The contact stated that the vehicle hesitated while accelerating. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V455000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approxim... Read more
Incident date: Dec 31, 2025
UNKNOWN- The wiring system/ security system is faulty and requires attention.
Incident date: Feb 10, 2026
Recently purchased a vehicle that had just previously got a recall 23S55 3 weeks prior. Upon receiving the vehicle there was a slight clicking noise when going into gear. i took the vehicle to a ford dealer and they investigated the recall remedy was installed improper from the dealership and the vehicle was unsafe to drive the rear subframe of the car moves and has free play which made is very un... Read more
Incident date: Feb 10, 2026
Vehicle experienced sudden engine failure while driving due to timing chain failure on N47 diesel engine, a known defect. Loss of propulsion occurred without warning, creating a safety risk.
Incident date: Oct 6, 2025
The engine just shut off. I was in traffic moving up to a light and the vehicle just shut down. The second time when I was exiting the freeway got to the yield sign and the vehicle just shut down. The third time was turning left and the vehicle just shut down. the fourth time I was in traffic that was coming to a stop and the vehicle shut down. 5th time I was turning slow rate and the vehicle sh... Read more
Incident date: Feb 11, 2026
The contact owns a 2026 Ram 3500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the ABS and several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The message "DANGER" warning light flashed repeatedly and extremely fast on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that an unknown software update was needed. The vehicle was repaired... Read more
Incident date: Feb 11, 2026
The vehicle experienced a sudden loss of motive power and became inoperable due to failure of the high-pressure fuel system. This VIN is subject to an active safety recall (NHTSA 24V957 / Ford 24S78) addressing high-pressure fuel pump failure that can result in loss of motive power while driving. Prior to failure, the vehicle exhibited reduced engine performance and drivability issues consistent ... Read more
Incident date: Aug 1, 2025
At approximately 10pm on Saturday night with temps in the single digits and a large snowstorm (that would cripple much of the US for several days) just about to hit, the 1.5 year old vehicle failed completely. Propulsion battery 81% charged, started normally, then gave "check electrical system" warning which upon search can be due to a low 12v battery; call AAA and spouse (live 2hrs away). Began... Read more
Incident date: Aug 1, 2025
Beginning in July–August 2025, my 2019 BMW X3 (VIN [XXX] ) began experiencing multiple safety‑critical system failures affecting federally regulated components. The rearview camera intermittently failed to activate and later stopped functioning entirely, resulting in loss of rear visibility required under FMVSS 111. The Emergency Call (eCall) system displayed repeated malfunction warnings, ind... Read more
Incident date: Aug 1, 2025
Beginning in July–August 2025, my 2019 BMW X3 (VIN [XXX] ) began experiencing multiple safety‑critical system failures affecting federally regulated components. The rearview camera intermittently failed to activate and later stopped functioning entirely, resulting in loss of rear visibility required under FMVSS 111. The Emergency Call (eCall) system displayed repeated malfunction warnings, ind... Read more
Incident date: Jan 26, 2026
The contact owns a 2025 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that the horn was inoperable. While another driver was reversing, the contact attempted to use the horn to alert the driver, but the horn failed to operate as intended. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was confirmed that the horn was not functioning properly. The dealer informed th... Read more
Incident date: Nov 9, 2025
The contact owns a 2022 GMC Canyon. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle, the instrument cluster failed operate as designed and the speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, and turn signals failed to display as intended. The contact stated that a message to service several systems was displayed. The radio screen was blank, and the back over prevention system was inoperable. The vehicle w... Read more
Incident date: Nov 24, 2025
There is another recall 2nd one for this vehicle that now I cannot charge it . Park near other vehicles or in my garage due to fear of fire. Dealership says they are doing approx 1-2 a month and I am #59 on the list. I have not been offered a replacement vehicle. They told me I could not trade it in because it is “unsellable”.
Incident date: Dec 1, 2025
The rear tail lights and the rear “race track” running light have allowed water to enter causing premature failure of a large portion of the light(s). These are not user serviceable parts and should be completely sealed from the elements. Eventually, the entire ‘marker light’ portion of the the taillights and race track with be completely non-functioning causing the vehicle to have no re... Read more
Incident date: Dec 1, 2025
My 2022 BMW 530e is producing a loud, high-pitched noise whenever the heating or air conditioning system is operating, or when the engine reaches higher temperatures. Upon having the vehicle inspected, I was informed that the air conditioning compressor is failing, a known and documented issue with this model. The AC compressor in this vehicle is responsible not only for cooling the cabin, but al... Read more
Incident date: Dec 15, 2024
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2006 Lexus IS 250. It was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private seller. At the time of purchase, the odometer mileage was 119,000. The contact purchased a Carfax Report, which indicated that the odometer mileage was reported in September 2022 at 144,556, and the vehicle failed inspection. In addition, in October 2018, the... Read more
Incident date: Jan 23, 2026
This vehicle is a total safety hazard due to two distinct failures: 1. Unresolved Door Defect (14+ Months): For over 14 months, the vehicle has suffered from 'Self-Opening Door Handles.' Despite 4 repair attempts, the manufacturer has failed to fix this, posing a risk of doors opening while driving. 2. Fire Risk & Use Restriction (Current Recall 26V-028): Currently, the vehicle is under a ... Read more
Incident date: Feb 3, 2026
I'm reporting that my driving/fog lights aren't working and haven't for some time. My truck only has 58,000 miles on it and is only 5 years old, I have been guided to report this issue to the NHTSA. I drive allot in the early morning and am NOT getting the lighting I should, it's agravating that you pay so much for a vehicle and the lights don't work properly. I have read 100's of post/emails and ... Read more
Incident date: Aug 8, 2025
Regularly maintained 2020 Lincoln Navigator at 78,000 miles experienced engine failure with no warning. No check engine light until we experienced power issues and engine shuttering. We took the vehicle directly to the mechanic within an hour of check engine light. They changed the oil and said to go to the dealer. Dealer assessed the vehicle as follows: Bottom end failure of the short block wh... Read more
Incident date: Feb 9, 2026
The power steering module/rack, passenger side air bag Safety is a risk due to steering not working properly/ seat belt constantly locking Yes Yes others inspected Seat belt sensor has been on several months Service steering assist/Lane keep system malfunction service required and steering assist fault - all came on when it got cold and steering won’t work now
Incident date: Nov 28, 2025
The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Impala. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel became inoperable. The contact stated that the steering wheel seized and became difficult to turn. There was no warning light illuminated. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approxim... Read more
Incident date: Nov 18, 2025
- Rear window shattered without impact or any signs of stress. - Safety at risk if driving and breakage occurs. In this case I was away from the parked vehicle when the shattering occurred. - There are quite a few reports of this issue online in Facebook Acura owner groups and in published news stories such as this: [XXX] - In my case, it was inspected by the repair company and confirmed to be ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 26, 2025
I have been experiencing a brake problem with the trailer brake system in my 2021 Ford F250 Crew Cab. When my travel trailer is connected to the truck the trailer brakes do not always apply and sometimes the brakes apply, then release and then apply again. On my most recent trip, I traveled half way through an intersection before stopping because the trailer brakes did not apply. The trailer br... Read more
Incident date: Feb 8, 2026
I had a check engine light come on for an oss sensor. Shortly after that started my truck would aggressively downshift to lower gears and lock up. I’m now having to replace the transmission.
Incident date: Dec 1, 2024
While driving down the road about 30mph on a paved road, heard a loud bang from the back. Stopped and inspected. The stability button shot off the door into the door jam, the door panel coming off, and the weather stripping separating from the door. The passenger rear airbag went off. Nothing visible on outside. Everything mechanically like it should be. 55,000 miles on car. Bought new from deal... Read more
BMW
I4 EDRIVE40
(2025) — EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Feb 9, 2026
Incident date: Nov 18, 2025
Vehicle: 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid Sport Touring (OEM headlights; no aftermarket lighting modifications) Issue Type: Exterior Lighting – Headlights (low-beam performance/visibility) Description of Problem: I am submitting a safety complaint regarding the low-beam headlights on my 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid Sport Touring. The low beams provide poor foreground illumination and create a distinct dark are... Read more
BMW
I4 EDRIVE40
(2025) — FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
Feb 9, 2026
Incident date: Nov 18, 2025
On November 18, 2025, I was driving a 2025 BMW i4 eDrive, VIN [VIN], at approximately 10–15 mph in slow traffic. I applied the brake pedal firmly when the vehicle in front of me slowed, but the vehicle did not decelerate as expected. The vehicle continued moving forward, resulting in a rear-end collision with the car in front of me, which in turn struck another vehicle. Prior to this incident, ... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Jan 28, 2026
Cadillac XT6 – VIN: [XXX] echanical Failures, Ignored Transmission Recall(s), and Dealer Negligence I write this letter to formally place General Motors Company on notice of a pattern of serious mechanical failures, ignored safety recalls, and dealership indifference involving my Cadillac XT6, referenced above. This vehicle has been presented to Sam Leman Cadillac of Champaign on multiple occ... Read more
Incident date: May 9, 2025
The paint on the tailgate chipped off
Incident date: Jan 31, 2026
I was in an head on colisin and neither of my front airbags deployed
Crash
2 injured
Incident date: Jan 31, 2026
Driver was in parking space/nearly fully parked (her foot was on the brake coming to a full stop and about to place the car in park), when the car’s self drive function or cruise control engaged on its own. It then rolled up the hill, and into the trees. Thankfully no one was hurt (3 people in the car - 2 adults and 1 child) and the car stopped while leaning on a tree, otherwise it would have r... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Jan 31, 2026
Driver was in parking space/nearly fully parked (her foot was on the brake coming to a full stop and about to place the car in park), when the car’s self drive function or cruise control engaged on its own. It then rolled up the hill, and into the trees. Thankfully no one was hurt (3 people in the car - 2 adults and 1 child) and the car stopped while leaning on a tree, otherwise it would have r... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Sep 2, 2025
I was driving and parked the car at the store. After checking out I went to the car got ready to leave and started backing out and the car would not turn to the left at all. I took it to the shop and was told they do not see anything wrong with my car but a steering message is coming up.
Incident date: Feb 6, 2026
* Passenger front Seat wiring harness corrosion and failure due to water ingress due to leaking web plate in the longitudinal member on passenger side. Water ingress in passenger compartment caused electrical failure and black mold to grow in the interior carpet and seat rails as well as in an electrical well in the floor board. *Black mold and mildew can cause long term health risks to those pers... Read more
Incident date: Jan 26, 2026
Transmission was slipping and hesitating from 50,000 miles up until it went completely out at 96,956. The day it went out, I pulled out onto the highway and there was no acceleration, it wouldn't move. It was flashing "traction control turned off" "check engine visit dealer" "check awd system" and the check engine light was on as well as the orange triangle with explanation point. Toyota said my v... Read more
Incident date: Jan 26, 2026
SUBJECT: Catastrophic Steering Failure and Erroneous Safety Recall Notification - 2014 BMW 335i 105,000 milles INCIDENT DESCRIPTION: While driving, the vehicle completely lost steering control. The electronic steering rack disengaged due to a failure in the aluminum mounting bolts. This incident resulted in a near-fatal accident in which the vehicle almost left the road and fell into a ravine. I h... Read more
1 injured
Incident date: Jan 26, 2026
SUBJECT: Catastrophic Steering Failure and Erroneous Safety Recall Notification - 2014 BMW 335i 105,000 milles INCIDENT DESCRIPTION: While driving, the vehicle completely lost steering control. The electronic steering rack disengaged due to a failure in the aluminum mounting bolts. This incident resulted in a near-fatal accident in which the vehicle almost left the road and fell into a ravine. I h... Read more
1 injured
Incident date: Jan 23, 2026
Engine failure while driving 75 miles per hour in highway in brand new Yukon Denali. 3,000 miles and got a “decreased acceleration” warning. Then couldn’t accelerate and loud knocking noise from the engine, likely a lifter issue. I will have to get a new engine according to GMC. Unbelievable. Recall was for 2021-2024, but my 2026 is havin the same issue.
Incident date: Jan 23, 2026
I had stopped uphill, with my foot on the brake, heading East on the left lane of Pomona Road, at the approach to the Traffic Light Junction with Route 45, around 3.50 PM on Friday 1/23/2026. There were about 5-6 cars also stopped, ahead of me, at the Red Traffic Light and several cars behind me, when I heard my car engine rev up loudly. I kept applying the brake. I could hear my car tires spinni... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Jan 23, 2026
I had stopped uphill, with my foot on the brake, heading East on the left lane of Pomona Road, at the approach to the Traffic Light Junction with Route 45, around 3.50 PM on Friday 1/23/2026. There were about 5-6 cars also stopped, ahead of me, at the Red Traffic Light and several cars behind me, when I heard my car engine rev up loudly. I kept applying the brake. I could hear my car tires spinni... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Dec 23, 2024
The truck has a mild hybird 48 volt system that will cause the engine to stall in traffic.
Incident date: Dec 23, 2024
The contact owns a 2015 BMW 528i. The contact stated that while his vehicle was parked, the coolant pump connector caught on fire, which was connected to a after market Coolant pump. The failure experienced was a localized electrical fire that originated at the coolant pump connector and aftermarket coolant pump while the vehicle was parked. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 ... Read more
Fire