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: Oct 10, 2021
I was driving in the number 1 lane (leftmost lane) when the dashboard display indicated there was a transmission fault and warned that I should pull over to a safe spot immediately. With the vehicle rapidly slowing, I had to maneuver through traffic to the right side of the road with great difficulty. It was very dangerous to make that maneuver with freeway traffic traveling at approximately 65 ... Read more
Incident date: Oct 10, 2021
I was driving in the number 1 lane (leftmost lane) when the dashboard display indicated there was a transmission fault and warned that I should pull over to a safe spot immediately. With the vehicle rapidly slowing, I had to maneuver through traffic to the right side of the road with great difficulty. It was very dangerous to make that maneuver with freeway traffic traveling at approximately 65 ... Read more
Incident date: Sep 8, 2021
On Sept 8, 2021, on I-5, North of Marysville, WA, a truck threw a rock through the lower radiator of our X1. We lost all coolant and car was hauled to BMW, Seattle on 9/9/21. On 9/10 service rep Josh Logan advised: "We confirmed that it does not come with a guard, but when you order a new part, that does come in conjunction." and that: "no warranty coverage, as it does not cover damages, so you... Read more
Incident date: Sep 30, 2021
you have serious construction going on at 21425 spring street at the veteran shelter where i stay. well the crew dug up sections of the road and cut it where it is a Sharpe dip to go up and down. i went over one at 1am on my way to work and it hit my undercarriage the following morning my car was leaking oil and now the ignition and battery are out ! i ask my insurance but it is not and accident ... Read more
Incident date: Sep 30, 2021
you have serious construction going on at 21425 spring street at the veteran shelter where i stay. well the crew dug up sections of the road and cut it where it is a Sharpe dip to go up and down. i went over one at 1am on my way to work and it hit my undercarriage the following morning my car was leaking oil and now the ignition and battery are out ! i ask my insurance but it is not and accident ... Read more
Incident date: Sep 30, 2021
you have serious construction going on at 21425 spring street at the veteran shelter where i stay. well the crew dug up sections of the road and cut it where it is a Sharpe dip to go up and down. i went over one at 1am on my way to work and it hit my undercarriage the following morning my car was leaking oil and now the ignition and battery are out ! i ask my insurance but it is not and accident ... Read more
Incident date: Oct 2, 2021
I had my car towed to BMW OF WEST SPRINGFIELD MA, to get car initially overhaul and completely fixed I understand that are six underlying recalls airbags, odb communications, brakes, electrical, door latches, after calling and letting them know my car was on its way, I requested a courtesy call and no was given I call two days later to be told my car wasn’t on the lot, then to be called back hou... Read more
Incident date: Oct 2, 2021
I had my car towed to BMW OF WEST SPRINGFIELD MA, to get car initially overhaul and completely fixed I understand that are six underlying recalls airbags, odb communications, brakes, electrical, door latches, after calling and letting them know my car was on its way, I requested a courtesy call and no was given I call two days later to be told my car wasn’t on the lot, then to be called back hou... Read more
Incident date: Oct 2, 2021
I had my car towed to BMW OF WEST SPRINGFIELD MA, to get car initially overhaul and completely fixed I understand that are six underlying recalls airbags, odb communications, brakes, electrical, door latches, after calling and letting them know my car was on its way, I requested a courtesy call and no was given I call two days later to be told my car wasn’t on the lot, then to be called back hou... Read more
Incident date: Apr 2, 2021
The contact owns a Cybex car seat. Model number: 519004435,Model name: Sirona S. The car seat was being utilized in a 2017 BMW X5. The contact stated that while, his daughter was in the car seat it wiggled and moved at the base. The contact stated the writing on the chest clip faded within a week. The occupant of the car seat was able to move the chest clip. The contact stated the latch and se... Read more
Incident date: Oct 12, 2021
The vehicle started running rough, starting rough, and idling high. The diagnostic codes indicated a failure of the high-pressure fuel pump. BMW has recalled these in all of the 2014-2018 diesel engines, but it appears the high-pressure fuel pumps are also failing in the gasoline engines, of which I own.
Incident date: Oct 8, 2021
The car turned off while driving and presented a "drivetrain" error message. The car lost power but I was able to safely steer to the side of the road. Car was taken to BMW dealer and a diagnostic test was performed. Was informed that the EME (Electric Motor Electronics) Module was bad and would need to be replaced. The car is 5 years old and has 31,700 miles and has never been in an accident. T... Read more
Incident date: Sep 15, 2021
Passenger side door lock actuator has failed. Door lock actuators should not be failing on cars that are less than 10m years old. This causes a major safety issue when you are unable to open/unlock the door from the inside or outside because the lock can not be actuated (manually or with button). Given the vast amount of actuators failing, this should be addressed with BMW. This has become a commo... Read more
Incident date: Sep 15, 2021
Passenger side door lock actuator has failed. Door lock actuators should not be failing on cars that are less than 10m years old. This causes a major safety issue when you are unable to open/unlock the door from the inside or outside because the lock can not be actuated (manually or with button). Given the vast amount of actuators failing, this should be addressed with BMW. This has become a commo... Read more
Incident date: Sep 8, 2021
On Sept 8, 2021, on I-5, North of Marysville, WA, a truck threw a rock through the lower radiator of our X1. We were very lucky that we stopped and found the coolant running out. Otherwise the engine might have seized at highway speed , causing an accident. We lost all coolant and car was hauled to BMW, Seattle on 9/9/21. On 9/10 service rep Josh Logan advised: "We confirmed that it does not c... Read more
Incident date: Mar 1, 2021
The vehicle is Burning a lot of oil due to the valve stem seals. Because of how the engine was designed. Since 2011 to 2018 was a law suit of the same engine since 2000 of the N62 V8 Engine of BMW. Smoke of oil comes out the exhaust and BMW cannot fix the issue they designed.
Incident date: Oct 3, 2021
Started my car like normal and ran for 30 seconds after leaving Walmart after I picked up a few things then the car shut off out of no where.. attempted to start again and the car tried to turn over then even stopped doing that after a few attempts.. I had the car towed to my home.. my husband then inspected the vehicle and the high pressure fuel pump has failed causing my engine to lock up.. I ha... Read more
Incident date: Oct 3, 2021
Started my car like normal and ran for 30 seconds after leaving Walmart after I picked up a few things then the car shut off out of no where.. attempted to start again and the car tried to turn over then even stopped doing that after a few attempts.. I had the car towed to my home.. my husband then inspected the vehicle and the high pressure fuel pump has failed causing my engine to lock up.. I ha... Read more
Incident date: Oct 8, 2021
The low beam headlights do not illuminate the road sufficiently when there are dips in the road or going up hill. The dealer says the lights are fine but relative to the other cars, there is clearly a problem with low beams on undulating roads. On undulating roads or going up hills, the low beams often only illuminate about 20 ft in front of the car. The problem appears to be BMW has drastically l... Read more
Incident date: Oct 8, 2021
When starting the bike, suddenly fuel started dripping down onto the front wheel and onto the exhaust. I noticed the fuel on the suction side (right side) of the gas tank pooling up and spraying out. Upon disassembly, the male 90 degree fuel quick disconnect (replacement part number BMW 13537674765) came apart when trying to release the hose from the female coupling. Replacing the connector and th... Read more
Incident date: Oct 2, 2021
On 10/2/2021 my driver side mirror assembly fell off when driver door was closed. On 3/7/2020 my passenger mirror assembly fell off when the passenger door was closed. My safety was at risk when not being able to effectively use mirrors for travel visibility. Others traveling behind me may have if my mirror wires shredded and it became a projectile as in both incidents I was 45 minutes from hom... Read more
Incident date: Oct 8, 2021
The car was driving in HYBRID mode and when I slowed down and then as I was about to accelerate, the car pulled forward in a jolt and even braking the car did not help. Not sure if the car was switching from hybrid to electric mode? It was scary and I finally switched to SPORT mode to avoid the electric / hybrid model altogether. This is the second time it has happened to me in the past one mon... Read more
BMW
K 1600 GTL
(2014) — FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Oct 9, 2021
Incident date: Sep 30, 2021
BMW has an open recall regarding a defective fuel pump. Affected bikes: BMW K 1600 GT, K 1600 GTL, K 1600 GTL Exclusive (2011-2014) When I contact BMW they tell me my VIN is not affected, but I have 100% confirmed that my fuel pump is leaking gas at a very unsafe rate. My bike year and model matches, and the effected part also matching, including the failure. This can cause my motorbike to turn i... Read more
Fire
Incident date: Oct 4, 2021
The contact owns a 2013 BMW 328I. The contact stated that while his daughter was driving approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle stalled with the check oil warning light illuminated. The low oil pressure and drive train message were displayed. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure however, no further assistance was provi... Read more
Incident date: Sep 28, 2021
After the brake recall, and new brake calipers and pads were installed, I began to notice significant vibrations of the front end during medium braking. During mild to medium braking going down hill, the front end would seem to bounce.
Incident date: Jul 1, 2021
The contact owns a 2014 BMW 328D. The contact stated that while driving approximately 10 MPH and making a turn, the vehicle stalled without warning. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the high-pressure fuel pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure however, no further assistance was p... Read more
Incident date: Sep 27, 2021
with no warning my car just shut down as I was driving thank god I was able to pull over and park after not knowing what the problem was I inspected the battery and saw the positive cable was damaged how I don't know but it needs to be replaced I have had the car for 2 years and never had a problem it is available for inspection
Incident date: Sep 1, 2021
The sunshade on the panoramic sunroof detached entirely along the passenger side of the car. It hangs down and impairs the driver's vision on the passenger side, preventing the driver from seeing oncoming traffic. Additionally the sunshade cannot be retracted for fear that it will hang down further impairing the driver's view in the rear view mirror. I am not driving my car unless absolutely nece... Read more
Incident date: Oct 7, 2021
Drive train warning displayed then power loss and stalling occurred on highway
Incident date: Jun 29, 2021
I am reporting a car malfunction that occurred on June 29, 2021. The 2013 BMW X3 accelerated on its own and eventually crashed into a fire hydrant. I was turning left into a parking space in a parking lot at a very low speed when the vehicle accelerated and jumped onto the sidewalk all the while I was pressing the breaks and trying to steer the car to safety. It hit another curve in the parking... Read more
Crash
1 injured
Incident date: Aug 31, 2021
Warning on screen came on suddenly while driving indicating charger system failure. While driving to the dealer for diagnosis and repair, power steering failed, then power brakes failed, then engine stopped running. Could not put vehicle in park and vehicle rolled back when foot brake was released. Car was diagnosed as alternator failure.
Incident date: Aug 31, 2021
Warning on screen came on suddenly while driving indicating charger system failure. While driving to the dealer for diagnosis and repair, power steering failed, then power brakes failed, then engine stopped running. Could not put vehicle in park and vehicle rolled back when foot brake was released. Car was diagnosed as alternator failure.
Incident date: Aug 31, 2021
Warning on screen came on suddenly while driving indicating charger system failure. While driving to the dealer for diagnosis and repair, power steering failed, then power brakes failed, then engine stopped running. Could not put vehicle in park and vehicle rolled back when foot brake was released. Car was diagnosed as alternator failure.
Incident date: Oct 4, 2021
Behind the cupholder the shifting unit is unsealed and liquids spill are causing shifting issues to the shifting control module. Also the Airbag sensor is under the same gap which can cause airbag malfunction. There are numerous reports on forums with all model types 2019+, not limited to the 8 series. This is a design flaw on the new center console shifting seal. This is is a life threatening ... Read more
Incident date: Oct 4, 2021
Behind the cupholder the shifting unit is unsealed and liquids spill are causing shifting issues to the shifting control module. Also the Airbag sensor is under the same gap which can cause airbag malfunction. There are numerous reports on forums with all model types 2019+, not limited to the 8 series. This is a design flaw on the new center console shifting seal. This is is a life threatening ... Read more
Incident date: Oct 4, 2021
Behind the cupholder the shifting unit is unsealed and liquids spill are causing shifting issues to the shifting control module. Also the Airbag sensor is under the same gap which can cause airbag malfunction. There are numerous reports on forums with all model types 2019+, not limited to the 8 series. This is a design flaw on the new center console shifting seal. This is is a life threatening ... Read more
Incident date: Aug 31, 2020
On August 31, 2020, I purchased a new 2020 BMW X3E, manufactured and warranted by BMW, from Habberstad BMW, located at 945 East Jericho Turnpike, Huntington Station, New York 11746. On or about October 14, 2020, I was notified by a BMW Safety Recall regarding a defective battery in my hybrid vehicle. I later learned that on or about September 2, 2020, BMW submitted a Part 573 Safety Recall Repor... Read more
Incident date: Oct 5, 2021
Recently had to replace a failed bulb in my 2008 BMW 328i, during the replacement i noticed crumbling insulation within the plastic headlight compartment - basically all i had to do was touch the headlight wires lightly and insulation would crumble and flake off - this insulation is badly degraded, probably made out of improper materials and could potentially pose a hazard if the wires inside were... Read more
Incident date: Jan 15, 2021
I am the owner of my BMWi3. We live in a retirement community in Florida and it is the perfect vehicle for driving the short commutes of our daily activities. December 27, 2020 I ordered (from Amazon) SUNTUE Buckles Extender,Universal Fit for 7/8'' Metal Tongue, Extension Socket Connector with E11 Safety Certified -2 Pack. The purpose was to make it easier to fasten the seat belts. We are in ... Read more
Incident date: Sep 23, 2021
Active radiator grille malfunction Active grille is stuck in closed position increasing the chances of the engine overheating and related safety risks. This problem has been reported in multiple BMW models and model years but the MY2016 G12 with a production date of March 2016 is not mentioned in previous service bulletins. Attaching links to service bulletins for same model but different product... Read more
Incident date: Oct 3, 2021
My vehicle's Passenger Restraint system has failed affecting the Airbag's deployment, seat belt tensioners, and other safety components. The car currently has warnings on the dashboard in the form of lights and as warning messages in the infotainment system. Lights/warnings appeared randomly while driving qith no prior symptoms. This fault puts the safety of any passengers in my vehicle in jeopar... Read more
Incident date: Oct 3, 2021
My vehicle's Passenger Restraint system has failed affecting the Airbag's deployment, seat belt tensioners, and other safety components. The car currently has warnings on the dashboard in the form of lights and as warning messages in the infotainment system. Lights/warnings appeared randomly while driving qith no prior symptoms. This fault puts the safety of any passengers in my vehicle in jeopar... Read more
Incident date: May 1, 2021
The contact owns a 2009 BMW X5. The contact stated that while approaching a stop, the vehicle would continue to accelerate upon the depression of the brake pedal. The contact also stated that the parking brake failure warning message would appear on the instrument panel. The contact had taken the vehicle to a dealer where they replaced both front and rear brake pads; however, the failure persisted... Read more
Incident date: Oct 1, 2021
On many cars including mine, and a family members 2021 8 series, BMW uses a light sensor on the instrument cluster to set the daytime dimming of the digital cluster and backup cameras. However, Florida-legal window tint confuses the system, and causes the screens to dim in a way that cannot be overridden or adjusted. There is a setting for screen brightness, however it is only active for night. ... Read more
Incident date: Oct 1, 2021
On many cars including mine, and a family members 2021 8 series, BMW uses a light sensor on the instrument cluster to set the daytime dimming of the digital cluster and backup cameras. However, Florida-legal window tint confuses the system, and causes the screens to dim in a way that cannot be overridden or adjusted. There is a setting for screen brightness, however it is only active for night. ... Read more
Incident date: Sep 25, 2021
Front Passenger Air Bag Seat Occupancy Sensor (OC3) Mat failure. Does not detect a passenger in the seat. Passenger airbag is forced off due to sensor.
Incident date: Sep 25, 2021
Front Passenger Air Bag Seat Occupancy Sensor (OC3) Mat failure. Does not detect a passenger in the seat. Passenger airbag is forced off due to sensor.
Incident date: Oct 4, 2021
I am having a major electrical short in my trunk area affecting my critical tail lights functionalities and common trunk function. I cannot use my turning signals or brake lights or lights in general when driving my vehicle from the rear my lights are not operable. This is a huge safety concern and risk that’s need to be recalled affecting millions I'm for certain. Along with that I am having st... Read more
Incident date: Oct 4, 2021
I am having a major electrical short in my trunk area affecting my critical tail lights functionalities and common trunk function. I cannot use my turning signals or brake lights or lights in general when driving my vehicle from the rear my lights are not operable. This is a huge safety concern and risk that’s need to be recalled affecting millions I'm for certain. Along with that I am having st... Read more
Incident date: Oct 4, 2021
I am having a major electrical short in my trunk area affecting my critical tail lights functionalities and common trunk function. I cannot use my turning signals or brake lights or lights in general when driving my vehicle from the rear my lights are not operable. This is a huge safety concern and risk that’s need to be recalled affecting millions I'm for certain. Along with that I am having st... Read more