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: May 26, 2025
Session ID: [XXX] EA Case No: [XXX] Time of incident: [XXX] While DC fast charging my 2022 Porsche Taycan at an Electrify America station, I experienced a critical malfunction during cable disconnection. Upon unplugging, there was a visible spark, fire, and smoke on the car's charging port. The DC charge port showed heat damage, with melted pins that rendered it unusable. A Porsche dealer confirm... Read more
Incident date: May 26, 2025
Session ID: [XXX] EA Case No: [XXX] Time of incident: [XXX] While DC fast charging my 2022 Porsche Taycan at an Electrify America station, I experienced a critical malfunction during cable disconnection. Upon unplugging, there was a visible spark, fire, and smoke on the car's charging port. The DC charge port showed heat damage, with melted pins that rendered it unusable. A Porsche dealer confirm... Read more
Incident date: Jun 12, 2024
The Abs failed and my car break system went out while on the highway with two small kids. Very dangerous
Incident date: Jun 9, 2025
The car in recent months has twice lost power and been rendered in operable on the side of the road until it could be limped home. I had the car serviced last year for a recall of a fuel filter gasket and at that time I was informed that I also had an update done for a (k knock?) sensor prior done on the car before purchase. I inquired about what that was, and they told me at the time it was for a... Read more
Incident date: Jun 9, 2025
The car in recent months has twice lost power and been rendered in operable on the side of the road until it could be limped home. I had the car serviced last year for a recall of a fuel filter gasket and at that time I was informed that I also had an update done for a (k knock?) sensor prior done on the car before purchase. I inquired about what that was, and they told me at the time it was for a... Read more
Incident date: Jun 9, 2025
I have now experienced multiple instances where the vehicle suddenly brakes on its own while driving at normal speeds, without any obstruction or hazard ahead. This is not only unacceptable — it's extremely dangerous, putting both myself and other drivers at risk of serious injury. Despite bringing the vehicle in twice to the dealership, the issue persists. I continue to receive dashboard malfun... Read more
Incident date: Sep 11, 2024
1.What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request?- battery terminals started leaking battery acids and bits of corrosive residues on electrical pigtails leading to other components. Ac compression / motor quit working. Yes is available forn inspection. 2.How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? - I'm not sure if battery acids are c... Read more
Incident date: Sep 11, 2024
Passenger front seat headrest deployed while parked, no collision or accident, was parked in my driveway.
Incident date: Jun 11, 2025
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2018 Chevrolet Colorado. The contact stated that while attempting to service the vehicle, it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was approximately 47,000 and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 162,000.
Incident date: Jun 11, 2025
VTC failure, grinding on cold start up. There is a known issue with this in my year model, 2008 Honda accord.
Incident date: Aug 12, 2024
My wife was parking the car at carport, all of sudden unintended acceleration happened and hit through the wall. The damage on the car was $12478.57 and damaged the wall and storage on both sides of carport. My wife is scared to drive this car.
Crash
Incident date: Aug 12, 2024
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (STRUCTURE); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts n... Read more
Incident date: Aug 12, 2024
the recall was dated 12 August 2024. To date BMW North America has not provided the parts needed to effect the repair. it has been 10 months since the recall. BMW NA is dragging its feet. it is time something is done to require BMW NA to fix the problem,
Incident date: Sep 15, 2024
The contact owns a 2023 Kia Sportage. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the instrument cluster went black, and the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that before being able to pull over, the vehicle restarted. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to a local dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and replaced the instrument cluster and wiring harness. The vehicle was repair... Read more
Incident date: Sep 15, 2024
The contact owns a 2023 Kia Sportage. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the instrument cluster went black, and the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that before being able to pull over, the vehicle restarted. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to a local dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and replaced the instrument cluster and wiring harness. The vehicle was repair... Read more
Incident date: Aug 13, 2024
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while making a turn in either left or right direction, the Traction Control warning light had displayed, and the vehicle had reduced speed independently. During failure, the contact lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a mailbox. During the crash, no injuries were reported. No police report was filed and the vehicle was driven ho... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Aug 13, 2024
The contact owns a 2018 Honda Civic. The contact stated that while driving 35–40 MPH, the steering wheel was moving to the left and right and was sticking while being corrected. The steering wheel was difficult to turn. The contact stated that the failure occurred while driving at higher speeds. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Ca... Read more
Incident date: Jun 10, 2025
Replaced the RFH Hub twice in this vehicle do to water damage. 1st time under warranty, the 2nd out of pocket. Noticed the second time they replaced the Backlit light seal under an extended warranty (XL1 Warranty) where the water came in from. Both repair receipts enclosed and a picture of another vehicle they were replacing the seal while picking up my repaired vehicle. Investigation revealed... Read more
Incident date: Jun 10, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Ram 3500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the front wheels became inoperable. The contact stated that the vehicle was pulling to one side. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed and the contact was informed that the front wheel studs had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made... Read more
Incident date: Apr 25, 2025
The rear camera started to turn into a blue screen and sometimes it looked like static. We were told to go to Ford to change the camera (2020 or 2021?). After paying over $900 to fix the camera it broke yet again. We were 3 months past the 2 year warranty and was told if we wanted it fixed we would have to pay again. Now sometimes the camera works when backing out and sometimes its just solid blue... Read more
Incident date: Jun 10, 2025
The contact owns a 2023 BMW X1 equipped with Bridgestone Tires, Tire Line: Turanza, Tire Size: 225/55/R18, DOT Numbers: 16C1005HC0723 (Rear Tires) and 16C1005HC0823 (Front Tires). The contact stated that upon taking the vehicle for service, the contact was informed that all 4 tires needed to be replaced. The contact was informed that the front tires had 1-millimeter of treadwear remaining, and the... Read more
Incident date: May 10, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the liftgate switch failed to function as intended. The contact stated that the liftgate switch was activated to unlatch and open the liftgate; however, the liftgate failed to open as intended. The contact stated the failure was initially intermittent but became a persistent failure. The liftgate had since become... Read more
Incident date: Jun 10, 2025
The contact owned a 2017 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming 5 quarts of oil for every 2,000 miles driven. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where an oil consumption test was performed, and the dealer confirmed that the vehicle was experiencing an excessive oil consumption. Additionally, the contact stated that upon starting the vehicle and while driving, the en... Read more
Incident date: Jun 10, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan. The contact stated that while diving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while the accelerator pedal was depressed. An unknown warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where unknown repairs were made at the consumer's expense; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to a local... Read more
Incident date: May 18, 2025
Positive Crankcase Ventilation Regulator Valve Performance Code P052E indicates a fault in the Positive Crankcase Ventilation Regulator Valve Performance for a predetermined.
Incident date: May 18, 2025
Positive Crankcase Ventilation Regulator Valve Performance Code P052E indicates a fault in the Positive Crankcase Ventilation Regulator Valve Performance for a predetermined.
Incident date: Jun 9, 2025
I am the original owner of a 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 with the 6.2L L86 engine and 8-speed 8L90 transmission. I began experiencing severe transmission shuddering and harsh shifting, especially at lower speeds or under light acceleration. When the issue occurs, I press the gas and the engine revs up to 6,000 RPM without reaching 20 MPH, making it extremely difficult — and dangerous — to merge into ... Read more
Incident date: Feb 7, 2024
I am writing to formally lodge a complaint and request immediate resolution regarding my 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 equipped with the L87 6.2L V8 engine, which has been out of service for more than 30 consecutive days due to a recall-related defect. The vehicle is inoperable, and I have been informed by the authorized dealership that no loaner vehicle will be provided, with no clear estimate for when pa... Read more
Incident date: Feb 7, 2024
Coolant is leaking into the engine cylinder due to head gasket failure. Mechanic confirmed the problem. Engine may fail without warning. Known issue in EcoBoost 2.0L engines from 2015 Ford Edge models.
Incident date: Feb 7, 2024
I own a 2010 BMW X5 xDrive30i (VIN: [XXX] ) with two active recalls: the VANOS bolt recall (23V-707) and the PCV valve heater recall (22V-119). Despite these being federally mandated safety repairs, Sharpe BMW in Grand Rapids, MI refused to perform the work without a paid diagnostic and potential full repair payment upfront, stating reimbursement would be decided afterward. I was sent home in an u... Read more
Incident date: Aug 13, 2024
I own a 2010 BMW X5 xDrive30i (VIN: [XXX] ) with two active recalls: the VANOS bolt recall (23V-707) and the PCV valve heater recall (22V-119). Despite these being federally mandated safety repairs, Sharpe BMW in Grand Rapids, MI refused to perform the work without a paid diagnostic and potential full repair payment upfront, stating reimbursement would be decided afterward. I was sent home in an u... Read more
Incident date: Aug 13, 2024
I have a leak somewhere inside the car. Every time it rains I have water under the cargo area, that I have to vacuum water out. ( where the spare tire is) I don't know where its coming in at. I don't feel like vehicles that cost as much as they do should have major problems like this and now because of this my moon roof no longer works. Thank you for your time
Incident date: Jun 9, 2025
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while attempting to register the vehicle, it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 116,000 and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 159,759.
Incident date: Jun 9, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Corolla. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was contacted and informed the contact that they were unable to unscrew the rear screws on the seat to ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 9, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Buick Encore GX. The contact stated that after parking the vehicle and shifting to park(P), the vehicle failed to immediately shut off. During the failure the message "Shift to Park" was displayed. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure, but no assi... Read more
Incident date: Jun 9, 2025
The contact owns a 2014 BMW 328i. The contact stated that while coming to a stop, the vehicle lost motive power with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the fuel pump module had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (E... Read more
Incident date: Jun 9, 2025
Check engine light came on. Took car to dealership where I learned that the car needs a new engine due to coolant leaking into the cylinders. I later learned this is a "known issue" with this engine, yet Ford has refused to fix or do a recall. The engine could fail or catch on fire if not replaced.
Incident date: Jun 9, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (STRUCTURE); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experience... Read more
Incident date: Aug 13, 2024
I am leasing a 2025 Ram 1500 Bighorn from Stellantis. In the less than a year I have owned this it has been to 2 dealerships over 5 times. I hired Handy Law Offices to file a lemon claim . Stellantis was supposed to respond by May 26 and here it is June 9 and they still refuse to acknowledge the problems. And to top it off, I found a positive wire with a split open covering and Summit Automotiv... Read more
Incident date: Aug 13, 2024
I am leasing a 2025 Ram 1500 Bighorn from Stellantis. In the less than a year I have owned this it has been to 2 dealerships over 5 times. I hired Handy Law Offices to file a lemon claim . Stellantis was supposed to respond by May 26 and here it is June 9 and they still refuse to acknowledge the problems. And to top it off, I found a positive wire with a split open covering and Summit Automotiv... Read more
Incident date: Jun 9, 2025
Car had check engine come on with No significant symptom. Mechanic said this code leads them to either timing chain, phasers, or piston valve all located in the engine. The car does not have much time at this point. It’s very costly after just having changed all the oil gaskets from a leaky engine. Mechanic said it will suddenly get bad if left unpaired and could be dangerous for me while drivin... Read more
Incident date: Jun 7, 2025
my Subaru suddenly had numerous warning lights go on. Took it to the dealer and they said it was due to a recalled part: thermo control valve. They replaced it for free but said my head gaskets needed to be replaced after checking my oil for $4000 plus. I believe the recalled part caused the head gasket issue and shouldn’t have to pay also the mileage is only 66k
Incident date: Jun 9, 2025
Last week I was driving 70MPH on the highway when suddenly I got the red wrench icon with the message "Service Hybrid Electrical System" on the dashboard. After about 7 seconds I then got a "Put foot on brake and press start" message on the screen - while still going 70MPH on the highway. At that point the car died. I had no power - the accelerator pedal did nothing. Luckily, I was able to pul... Read more
Incident date: May 21, 2022
Transmission has slipped and shuddered multiple times. We have had it diagnosed at gmc dealership and our mechanic, advising that it is 8L90 transmission failure. It will slip to lower gear abruptly, causing for possible safety issues especially on the highways.
Incident date: Feb 10, 2025
The rear view camera only works half of the time and gives and error the camera is not available at this time. There was a recall but the VIN on this car was not included The transmissions revs high before shifting at times and at time when not pressing the gas, coasting downhill No check engine or warning lights come on Both issues have been recurring over the last couple of months
Incident date: Feb 10, 2025
The Blizzard Pearl paint on my Toyota 4Runner is peeling in large patches, exposing the undercoat and compromising the vehicle’s integrity. Toyota issued a Customer Support Program (CSP) acknowledging this as a known defect affecting Blizzard Pearl paint, but I never received the notification. As a result, I missed the deadline to have the issue corrected, and Toyota has refused to assist. This... Read more
Incident date: Feb 10, 2025
Water entering into the vehicle, causing vehicle to reduce power in traffic, due to traction control issues.. Not able to drive vehicle when it’s raining., along with other issues, pls see first report..
Incident date: Jun 5, 2025
Water entering into the vehicle, causing vehicle to reduce power in traffic, due to traction control issues.. Not able to drive vehicle when it’s raining., along with other issues, pls see first report..
Incident date: May 26, 2025
Steering wheel does not return to center
Incident date: Oct 15, 2024
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds or while the vehicle was idling, there was an abnormal clunking sound coming from the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the flex plate had fractured. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred... Read more