Consumer Safety Complaints
Search 2,245,377 safety complaints filed by vehicle owners with NHTSA, including 140,173 crashes, 56,794 fires, and 8,580 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 2,245,377 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 41,082 complaints for BMW
Incident date: Jun 30, 2026
Gas tank leak, fuel fumes. Part of safety recall for fuel pressure regulator causing fuel tank rupture!!!
Incident date: Jul 20, 2026
The contact owns a 2022 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH, the vehicle lost automotive power. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road. The “Low Fuel” message was displayed on the instrument panel. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer where it was diagnosed and determi... Read more
Incident date: Jul 20, 2026
The leather-covered dashboard panel, in the approximately 4-6 inch section between the base of the windshield and the first seam across the dash, has shrunk, rippled, and pulled away from the underlying substrate. This area also houses the driver-assist camera housing and the defrost vent. The vehicle was purchased new and has been Ford-maintained, professionally detailed, and garage-kept througho... Read more
Incident date: Jun 15, 2026
There should be a recall on the sunvisors. Because it is a safety issue, because when the Sun is in your face and you can't see driving it can very well cause an accident or getting a ticket for not being able to see your speed that you're going, because you're so far up trying to get the Sun out of your face. You can't see any of the controls or your dashboard.. That is a safety hazard. My driver... Read more
Incident date: Jul 24, 2026
The vehicle was released to me as repaired by an authorized Hyundai dealer earlier the same day. While driving home, the vehicle entered reduced-power/turtle mode and lost propulsion capability. This is the third failure of the electrical/propulsion system in under three months on a vehicle less than one year old, and it occurred within hours of a warranty repair.
Incident date: Aug 3, 2026
The contact owns a 2022 Hyundai Palisade. The contact stated that while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle unexpectedly decelerated. The contact stated that there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine compartment. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming engine oil. The contact stated that 2–3 quarts of oil needed to be added in between scheduled oil ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 15, 2026
The contact owns a 2021 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked with the vehicle turned off, the exterior and interior lights failed to turn off as intended. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 19,000.
Incident date: Jun 15, 2026
I seen that you are looking into the timing issues on Ford vehicles, My 2015 Taurus had its timing chain replaced just last Christmas 2025 that cost me over $6,000 to repair, I would not be even saying anything about this but my wifes 2014 Ford Edge did the same thing just 3 month before mine where we paid over $3,000 to try and fix but failed to fix so we just purchased her a new car, but with m... Read more
Incident date: Jul 8, 2026
1. High Pressure Fuel Pump, and yes. 2. Car will stall out unless I put it into neutral, shakes on shut down and sometimes starts scary fast. With the car caring my children in a busy town this is a HUGE safety hazard 3. No, but has been inspected by multiple mechanics. Got a tune up in May of 2026 problem subsided and back now. Numerous people have problems with this specific model of car and th... Read more
Incident date: Jul 8, 2026
Phantom Braking of Pre-Collision Braking 2023 Subaru Outback Turbo Wednesday, July 29, 2026. 9:30 am, sunny day Driving south on local city street. Brakes slammed on, car stopped, flashing yellow lights on left Combination Meter stating that Pre-Collision Braking was activated. There was no vehicle/obstacle/animal in the road. No parked cars, no cars backing out of a driveway. Road was complet... Read more
Incident date: Jul 8, 2026
The car engine shutdown mid drive. One minute before the complete stop, the car was stalling every 20 sec or so, then the acceleration stop responding to the drive pedal. The car was gliding to a stopping point. The "Engine " warning was on the display. Afterward, the car was towed to the Earnhardt Hyundai North Scottsdale, where the service center could not recreate the problem. They concluded th... Read more
Incident date: Aug 3, 2026
I own a 2018 Chevy Malibu. At approximately 57,000 miles, the original engine experienced a vacuum pump failure that resulted in catastrophic engine damage. The engine was replaced by General Motors under the vehicle's warranty. I then drove the vehicle for approximately another 52,000 miles with the warranty replacement engine. At that point, I experienced a sudden loss of braking while drivin... Read more
Incident date: Jul 15, 2026
The contact owns a 2015 Ford F-150. The contact was notified that the VIN was included in an unknown recall, and the vehicle was repaired under the recall; however, while stopped at a red light, the vehicle stalled. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the valve body and several other unknown components needed ... Read more
Incident date: Jul 15, 2026
OEM transmission had to be replaced 3 years after new purchase. Replacement transmission installed at Ford dealership has failed after less then 2 years. About to have third transmission installed.
Incident date: Jul 15, 2026
There is a current recall on the backup camera that has been pending since 2025. Parts are still not available as of today even though Ford stated parts and instructions were going to be available before end of 2nd quarter, June 30, 2026. Camera has not worked since mid 2025, Ford has been aware since end of 2025.
BMW
IX XDRIVE45
(2026) - POWER TRAIN
Aug 3, 2026
Incident date: Jul 30, 2026
Manufacturer Recall Number25TB06 NHTSA Recall Number25V322 In regards to the above mentioned recalls. The vehicle's reverse camera began flashing while driving forward. The R light on the gearshift was also flashing. While driving forward about 15 mph out of a parking lot, the vehicle suddenly went into reverse on it's own, locked up and would not move. I had to have the vehicle towed to the deal... Read more
BMW
IX XDRIVE45
(2026) - ENGINE
Aug 3, 2026
Incident date: Jul 30, 2026
Manufacturer Recall Number25TB06 NHTSA Recall Number25V322 In regards to the above mentioned recalls. The vehicle's reverse camera began flashing while driving forward. The R light on the gearshift was also flashing. While driving forward about 15 mph out of a parking lot, the vehicle suddenly went into reverse on it's own, locked up and would not move. I had to have the vehicle towed to the deal... Read more
BMW
IX XDRIVE45
(2026) - UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Aug 3, 2026
Incident date: Jul 30, 2026
My 2019 Ford Flex is experiencing a complete factory rearview backup camera failure. When I place the vehicle into reverse, the center display screen regularly goes completely blank/black or blue or severe image distortion or black with warning "camera is unavailable". This is now happening almost every time I drive the vehicle and started about eight months ago but is now getting more frequent.... Read more
Incident date: Aug 1, 2026
I am reporting a safety-related transmission problem I experienced with my 2021 Ford F-150 equipped with the 10R80 automatic transmission. While driving normally, the transmission suddenly shifts hard/lags on gears 3-5 and sometime higher gears 7-9 at higher speeds. I’ve also noticed a buzzing/metallic rattling coming near the engine from inside. There is also times i can tell i have no power wh... Read more
Incident date: Jul 29, 2026
On July 18, 2026, I was driving to work around 0530 am when my rear driver's side tire blew out from the tread sidewall to the rim ruptured, having a catastrophic failure that almost resulted in a crash. The tire only had 18,500 miles without any prior damage or hitting something. Their is a current recall for these tires for the very thing that happened yet my tire batch was not listed as part of... Read more
Incident date: Jul 29, 2026
The car started having a lound clicking sound while making a right turn while I exit from my workplace garage. I started driving home and I was on the freeway and suddenly got an alert from the car saying I need a wheel alignment check. I drove slowly and arrived home. When I was making a turn on my drive way to the garage, I again heard a loud clunk and the car front side appears to be elevated a... Read more
Incident date: Jul 31, 2026
I was driving at approx. 40 to 45 mph and in the process of braking for slowing traffic and the vehicle slammed on the brakes and left a short skid mark. I was about 50 feet behind the vehicle and braking when this occurred. I was lucky that the car behind did not rear end me. The collision alert did come on the dash at the same time it slammed on the brakes.
Incident date: Jul 31, 2026
My husband was driving our family of 6 to [XXX] from the [XXX] area. We were on the highway in [XXX] when we heard a loud pop and the sunroof had randomly exploded. There's a thin cloth like screen between the glass and the inside of the vehicle. Luckily that screen was not open, otherwise, we would've have been cut up by the glass shards coming down. We arrived at our destination in Florida and t... Read more
Incident date: Jul 31, 2026
Airbag sensor does not work. It is not activated when someone sits in the passenger seat. This was recalled in other Subaru Foresters but for some reason our specific vin number is not eligible for repair.
Incident date: Mar 1, 2026
My 2022 Honda Pilot Black Edition (VIN [XXX], 62,900 miles) has multiple intermittent safety‑critical failures involving the transmission, acceleration, adaptive cruise control, and HVAC blower. These issues occur without warning and without diagnostic trouble codes. Transmission/Acceleration Failure: Most recent incident was XXX on Highway 71 during heavy traffic. The vehicle twice experienc... Read more
Incident date: Jul 31, 2026
Starting problem. The vehicle sometimes (randomly) refuses to start after shutting off. For example, after filling gas, or turning off (idle off) at a stop light. It just refuses to start. Terrifying. Researched on the Internet and found thousands of complaints about this going back years. This needs a recall.
Incident date: Jul 16, 2026
I purchased the vehicle about 4 months ago and I've only driven it maybe 1 month out of 4 due to being in the shop for multiple egr and throttle issues. I am currently sitting with it broke down once again for the same issues for the 3rd time. The engine loses power out of no where while driven and gives a warning that says engine malfunction power reduced and all safety features are then shut dow... Read more
Incident date: Dec 30, 2023
I own an Acura RDX that experienced a sudden failure of the transfer case. Prior to the failure, there was little or no warning that a major drivetrain component was about to fail. When the transfer case failed, the vehicle lost its normal all-wheel-drive operation and required expensive repairs. I believe this is a safety defect because the transfer case is a critical drivetrain component. A sud... Read more
Incident date: Dec 30, 2023
I own an Acura RDX that experienced a sudden failure of the transfer case. Prior to the failure, there was little or no warning that a major drivetrain component was about to fail. When the transfer case failed, the vehicle lost its normal all-wheel-drive operation and required expensive repairs. I believe this is a safety defect because the transfer case is a critical drivetrain component. A sud... Read more
Incident date: Jul 25, 2026
On the day after taking delivery of my 2026 Tesla Model Y, FSD reversed into a visible stationary garage pillar while backing into my garage. The vehicle did not stop before impact and stopped only after contacting the pillar, resulting in more than $6,000 in vehicle damage. The following day, while FSD was attempting a left turn at an intersection, the vehicle nearly entered the opposing-traffic... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Jun 23, 2026
The front bump stops rest on the leaf springs seeming to indicate overload of the suspension. Ford initially stated this was a problem, then updated assertion to state it is normal. Upon crossing over some bridge joints and pot holes on highways while traveling at or below speed limit and when well-below GVWR, impact energy transmitted through the steering wheel is mildly painful and immediate an... Read more
Incident date: Jul 1, 2026
2016 Subaru Forester – Replacement of Air-conditioning Condenser – July 2026 A/C was demonstrating signs of failure in early July. While researching for issues with the 2016 A/C failing, it was uncovered that the compressor on the vehicle would be subject to a replacement upon failure (Subaru Service Information Number 10-84-16). The vehicle was equipped with a compressor that reflected a re... Read more
Incident date: Apr 1, 2026
I keep feeling a clunk or thump towards the back of the car at random times, towards the back axle. Sometimes it's when i stop and drive forward, other times it happens while I am just driving normally, usually at slow speeds around 5-45mph. I have an extended warranty and the ford dealer has said they can;t replicate it and want to give my car back until it gets worse, and then try fix it. I am h... Read more
Incident date: Jul 14, 2026
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Component: The MIB3 Infotainment Head Unit (specifically the internal eMMC memory chip) and the motorized rearview camera trunk emblem assembly.Inspection: Yes, the vehicle and all malfunctioning components are fully available for inspection upon request. How was your safety or the safety of others... Read more
Incident date: Jul 29, 2026
The contact owns a 2024 Ford Bronco Sport. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V467000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that the part was not yet available for the recall repair. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the rec... Read more
Incident date: Jun 4, 2026
Got recalls notice but the local dealership in st george SC (family ford) told me they wont do the brake or fuel injector recall until i have issues so i guess until my car catches on fire with my kids in it then they will do something
Incident date: Jul 23, 2026
Front brake caliper(s) was seizing up causing smoking and a burning smell. Vehicle was also pulling to the right when braking. Brake fluid or something like it coated the front drivers side wheel. Took vehicle back to dealership where vehicle was purchased new. Vehicle is still under warranty/extended warranties. The dealer did inspect and found front calipers to be seizing up causing excessi... Read more
Incident date: Jul 23, 2026
I am filing this complaint regarding a sudden and unexpected engine failure in my 2012 Kia Sorento LX equipped with the 2.4L Theta II engine. Vehicle Information: Year: 2012 Make/Model: Kia Sorento LX Engine: 2.4L Theta II VIN: [XXX] While driving, my vehicle experienced a sudden engine failure and lost power, leaving the vehicle inoperable. This occurred without warning. The vehicle received ro... Read more
Incident date: Jul 23, 2026
At 10,000 miles the interior door handle has stopped working. I’m not able to open the door anymore having Toyota take a look. The handle itself had busted on the inside. They have ordered the parts for replacement with a backorder for 2 to 3 months because they’re having a lot of reports.
Incident date: Jul 10, 2026
This vehicle has now experienced three separate incidents of sudden loss of propulsion while traveling at highway speeds, requiring it to be towed to the dealership on all three occasions. Each incident involved the same dangerous defect, and after each repair I was assured, the vehicle had been repaired and was safe to operate. Despite those assurances, the identical defect has continued to recur... Read more
Incident date: Jul 10, 2026
This vehicle has now experienced three separate incidents of sudden loss of propulsion while traveling at highway speeds, requiring it to be towed to the dealership on all three occasions. Each incident involved the same dangerous defect, and after each repair I was assured, the vehicle had been repaired and was safe to operate. Despite those assurances, the identical defect has continued to recur... Read more
Incident date: Jul 11, 2026
The OEM LED headlights will not adjust, causing excessive glare to on coming drivers. This issue is 300 times worse than the miniscule amount of light that the daytime running lights emit, but somehow the running lights get a recall, but the headlight adjusters do not! I'm completely flabbergasted at such an absurd and unjust oversite to such and important issue, please record this protest in t... Read more
Incident date: Jul 11, 2026
Sunroof exploded while driving.
Incident date: Jul 11, 2026
The contact owns a 2020 Grand Design Recreational Solitude RV. The contact stated that there was extensive frame flex in the RV. The contact stated that the slide-outs rolled out while turning. The contact stated that there was an issue with the kingpin that related to the flex frame. The doors were out of alignment and there were screws popping up out of the floor. The contact associated the fail... Read more
Incident date: May 1, 2026
So my 2018 Honda Civic has been affected by the known AC condenser leaks and compressor shaft seal leaks, that Honda has provided an extended warranty for. However they have also found a massive leak at the evaporator. To which Honda has not provided an extended warranty for. This is a huge concern because I am unable to defog my windows without AC and makes it very difficult to see while driving ... Read more
Incident date: Jul 24, 2026
These new Jeep Wrangles came from the factory with an aluminum steering box and Jeep has made 8 new steering boxes to try to fix the "wondering" steering issue but has not made any recalls. This is a safety issue because while driving down the road if you hit the smallest of bumps the Jeep will be sent into oncoming traffic in cases. They are impossible to drive on little 2 lane roads that has a l... Read more
Incident date: Jul 24, 2026
The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated that while in reverse(R), the rear-view camera was black and failed to operate as intended. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the camera was inoperable and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a complaint was filed. The failure mileage ... Read more
Incident date: Jul 24, 2026
instrument cluster began failing intermittently (tachometer first, then other gauges), and the dealer determined the entire cluster had to be replaced at a cost of about $3,000. The vehicle had 78,000 miles, so it was outside Kia's 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty.
Incident date: Jul 28, 2026
While using the adaptive cruise on the highway the truck will rapidly slow down as is there is something in it path even though nothing is there. This has happened multiple times on the expressway now and I can no longer use adaptive cruise for fear of what it will try and do.
Incident date: Jul 28, 2026
Stellantis issued a STAR service order regarding the digital rearview mirror not operating. I bought my truck in April of 2026 and the mirror was inoperable. Ram dealers have had the truck in the shop for over 10 weeks and cannot fix this safety issue. A STAR number and two claims numbers have been assigned. Stellantis Customer Service cannot understand what is being said and no rental car afforde... Read more