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: Feb 12, 2024
The contact owns a 2021 Ram 3500. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle, the accelerator pedal was depressed, but the vehicle failed to drive forward or to reverse. The RPM was raised high, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was determined that the transmission needed to be replaced; however, the parts were on backorder. T... Read more
Incident date: Feb 24, 2025
The pre-collision warning and the lane keep assist are disabled while driving frequently. It does this on its own. I have had into the shop one other time for the same thing. It’s happening more frequently now. Current mileage is 25,153. Also the personal settings on the dashboard reset on its own every five or so key cycles. Obviously there’s some kind of software problem.
Incident date: Feb 24, 2025
Smelled smoke (burnt oil) for over a year. Dealer could not address. Finally found that the cylinder heads had cracked and required replacement at $7500. Car was only 51K miles.
Incident date: Dec 9, 2024
Vehicle shut down completely while in the left lane of the highway. Thankfully she was able to maneuver it to the shoulder and started it back up and continued on. At 4 AM. Another four days later, the Jeep failed to start in the parking lot of work. Threw every code, including the "red wrench"- service hybrid electric vehicle system, check engine light and other others. We abandoned it in the pa... Read more
Incident date: Feb 22, 2025
The cruise control has stopped working. And there is faulty wiring in the hood making the check engine light come on. And a huge water and oil leak we just got the vehicle Friday 2/21
Incident date: Jan 30, 2025
Brakes: The brake pedal occasionally oscillates while being depressed. This feels like a tickle and causes uncertainty of control while braking. Speed Control: Loss of speed control experienced during abrupt change in road level (in a construction zone). Loss of speed control engaged regenerative braking causing a sharp decrease in vehicle speed and stopping hazard to vehicles behind mine. Blind... Read more
Incident date: Jan 30, 2025
My engine through a rod on approximately 9/26/24. I had it towed to Garden Grove Kia. They said they needed to contact Kia Corporate to find out if my car was still under warranty. Corporate acknowledged that there was a recall for the rod bearing that could cause a fire (safety issue). I was also told that there was a class action lawsuit. Corporate informed me that I was notified by mail. Which ... Read more
Incident date: Jan 30, 2025
ABS sensor isn't working so it doesn't stop correctly. They say they can't get a new one because they are back ordered so this must be happening to other Ram trucks besides mine if they are back ordered so far out they can give me an ETA on one.
Incident date: Jan 30, 2025
Fuel door does not open when using release button. Must push button multiple times before fuel door opens. Vehicle has less than 1400 miles.
Incident date: Jan 30, 2025
In July 2024 all the cameras on the Tesla Model S except the rear stopped working after a failed software update. This meant that all of the driver assistance systems as well as GPS, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, forward collision warning etc stopped working. The lack of availability of this system meant that the car no longer had any advanced safety fea... Read more
Incident date: Dec 15, 2024
[XXX] [XXX] Case #[XXX] [XXX] [XXX] Must be affixed to the vehicle before to deliver purchaser Dealer# 31804 Salesperson# S705254 License [XXX] VIN# [XXX] Date sold # [XXX] Mileage 110,411 REG 51 (REV) 9/2019) UH Pursuant to California vehicle code §4456 Reference: CCR §1962 Dealership on 1461 Concord Ave, Concord, CA 94520 and put me on danger caution warning didn't know that Acura 2010 ... Read more
Incident date: Jan 26, 2024
At random times, but seemingly becoming a more frequent occurence, when the stop/start system engages & shuts the vehicle down at idle (at a stop light for example), the vehicle will not restart for a period of time afterwards. This has also happened on the highway multiple times in traffic in which the vehicle will not start for a short period of time. This is a big safety issue and I was almos... Read more
Incident date: Jan 26, 2024
At random times, but seemingly becoming a more frequent occurence, when the stop/start system engages & shuts the vehicle down at idle (at a stop light for example), the vehicle will not restart for a period of time afterwards. This has also happened on the highway multiple times in traffic in which the vehicle will not start for a short period of time. This is a big safety issue and I was almos... Read more
Incident date: Jan 26, 2024
Fuel issues P0460 fuel level sensor circuit. Engine malfunction light comes on with fuel sensor issue. The car is full of fuel or not even close to be empty but the sensor reads off triggering a chain of event. Killing car mid of the highway when it got enough fuel. Average full tank ranges 280mi, this instance it only drove 202mi and the sensor reads 14mi to go with quarter Guage left in the ta... Read more
Incident date: Feb 21, 2025
See attached document for complaint.
Incident date: Feb 21, 2025
This is regarding recall campaigns 24V466000 and 24V499000. Three problems: 1. The nearest service center that performs recall work is over 150 miles and 2.5 hours of travel time from my home. I have concerns that the failure cited for 24V499000 could occur during the the trip there, particularly in colder weather, leaving me stranded on the side of the road, and for that reason have put off the... Read more
Incident date: Oct 21, 2024
Warning lights are on for , service trailer brake system, service braking system and service anti-lock brake system. Was advised by independent mechanic that the ABS module needs to be replaced, and this part has been unavailable for over 8 months. Contacted dealer and they also advised part is unavailable and they did not know when it would be available. Vehicle is drivable, but probably not saf... Read more
Incident date: Oct 21, 2024
At 85,400 miles just outside of warranty the engine began knocking and the Kia Dealer is saying that the motor is in bearing failure and the engine needs to be replaced. Kia is doing nothing.
Incident date: Feb 21, 2025
Vehicle stalling at intersections and is very dangerous. Took vehicle to VW dealership and even though they know and told me the problem was the carbon canister they are unable to repair due to no check engine light or the ability to replicate during there 5 minute test drive. This vehicle need repaired before it causes my family to be involved in an accident and they are refusing even though they... Read more
Incident date: Feb 21, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while driving 80 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to exceed 45 MPH without shaking violently. The 4-WD and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was stuck in 2-WD. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Pow... Read more
Incident date: Feb 21, 2025
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train); 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 not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms p... Read more
Incident date: Feb 21, 2025
The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while his son was driving at an undisclosed speed, he became aware that the electronic power steering assist was not functioning properly, requiring an increased effort to maneuver the vehicle. The service power steering warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed failures with the power steerin... Read more
Incident date: Jul 24, 2024
I tried to stop the van and had no brakes. I went right through the intersection, luckily it was early in the morning with light traffic. It could have been deadly. The front flex brake line fitting rusted away and the brake line separated. There was no warning prior to the incident. I had it fixed and still have the part.
Incident date: Jul 24, 2024
Component or System Failed: The fuel tank exploded, causing the vehicle to become undrivable. The explosion was so severe that the back seat was completely blown off. The vehicle is currently not in my possession, as it has been with the dealership for over three months. I have photos and proof of the damage, and I am willing to provide them for inspection. How Safety Was Put at Risk: I have a [X... Read more
Incident date: Dec 30, 2022
See attached document for complaint.
Incident date: Aug 21, 2024
The contact owns a 2024 Ford EcoSport. The contact stated that while her daughter was driving approximately 60 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated and flashed on and off. There was an abnormally loud clinking sound coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where the O-ring, oil pan, gasket, drive belt, oil belt, thermostat, and long block were replaced. The ve... Read more
Incident date: Aug 21, 2024
See attached document for complaint.
Incident date: Apr 25, 2019
While on an incline with the front-end facing up-hill, in 2WD mode, the truck rolls backward after placed in "Park." The truck will continue rolling until application of the brakes. This happens every time. When in 4WD (H) mode, the truck does not roll when in "Park." This has occurred since we purchased the truck on 23 December 2024; however, until yesterday, we thought the truck was only sli... Read more
Incident date: Feb 21, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-450 SD. The contact stated that the vehicle was designed with a feature known as neutral idle control (NIC), where the vehicle automatically shifted into neutral(N) while at a complete stop to reduce fuel consumption. The contact stated that while at a stop with the feature engaged, the vehicle abruptly jerked, or hesitated while depressing the accelerator pedal. The... Read more
Incident date: Feb 21, 2025
A well known and documented case of the oil pressure sensor switch failure has occurred on my car. Hyundai has recalled the car for this problem in South Korea. My switch failed at slightly over 60,000 miles. The switch is in an inaccessible location on the engine for even a good DIY owner-mechanic, which makes it very expensive to replace. This is a very common discussion on Hyundai owner forums ... Read more
Incident date: Oct 1, 2024
The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid. 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 manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confir... Read more
Incident date: Oct 1, 2024
CRUISE CONTROL SURGING VEHICLE BEYOND INITIAL SET LIMIT. I recently purchased my 2022 Nissan frontier 4x4 crewcab from a Texas dealership. After driving it for a week or so, I noticed that while the "Cruise Control" is engaged, any sort of incline ahead of the vehicle will cause the transmission to down shift and Rev up the engine to 5k+ rpms which causes the vehicle to Surge and speed up way... Read more
Incident date: Sep 21, 2024
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V838000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); 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 contact stated that while attempting to accelerate from a stop, the vehicle jolted befor... Read more
Incident date: Sep 21, 2024
Engine failure while driving on the highway resulting in the vehicle being towed to the dealership and requiring a brand new engine. Being advised by the dealership that this will likely take 3+ months to replace as they have 2 other Escalades in the service department still waiting on a new engine and have been there for over 2+ months.
Incident date: Sep 21, 2024
The contact owned a 2020 Hyundai Santa FE. The contact stated that after the vehicle was unoccupied and parked in the residential carport, she was in bed for the night and four bystanders stopped outside the contact's residence. One bystander knocked on the contact's door, the second bystander ran to the back of the house to search for a rear entrance to enter the home and the third bystander grab... Read more
Fire
Incident date: Aug 13, 2024
NHTSA recall campaign numbers are below. Or can be found on this website [XXX] . 24V865000 (Roll away OTA-2.0) 24V865000 (Regen Braking OTA-2.2) 24V499000 (Water pump) 24V466000 (Door Handles) 24V405000 (Warning Lights OTA-2.1) 24V404000 (MCU/VCU Loss of Power OTA-2.1) Here is a summary of some of the statistics the FOA has been sharing with owners on the process, you can use these to support your... Read more
Incident date: Aug 13, 2024
NHTSA recall campaign numbers are below. Or can be found on this website [XXX] . 24V865000 (Roll away OTA-2.0) 24V865000 (Regen Braking OTA-2.2) 24V499000 (Water pump) 24V466000 (Door Handles) 24V405000 (Warning Lights OTA-2.1) 24V404000 (MCU/VCU Loss of Power OTA-2.1) Here is a summary of some of the statistics the FOA has been sharing with owners on the process, you can use these to support your... Read more
Incident date: Feb 6, 2025
Driver seat began rocking. The dealer indicated it’s a problem they saw with other cars as well. The attachment to the rail you move your seat forward and backwards with, brakes. The dealer wants to sell you new brackets to make your car safe again.
Incident date: Feb 6, 2025
The contact owns a 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated while operating the vehicle, the Auto START/STOP feature malfunctioned, and the vehicle turned off at the stop light while attempting to accelerate. During the failure, the instrument cluster shut off and displayed a black screen. Additionally, on one occasion while reversing, the back over prevention camera screen switched to a ... Read more
Incident date: Feb 20, 2025
The wires under the hood were chewed up by rodents. The cars wires are insulated with a soy based wiring coating. My car is at the dealership for repair and deemed undrivable. This is so unfair because the car is new and only has 6200 miles on it. I am now facing insurance deductible. The dealer says the vehicle is undrivable because it is a safety issue and the engine might catch fire
Incident date: Feb 20, 2025
The wires under the hood were chewed up by rodents. The cars wires are insulated with a soy based wiring coating. My car is at the dealership for repair and deemed undrivable. This is so unfair because the car is new and only has 6200 miles on it. I am now facing insurance deductible. The dealer says the vehicle is undrivable because it is a safety issue and the engine might catch fire
Incident date: Feb 20, 2025
The contact owns a 2025 Mazda CX-30. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the messages "i-Activsense Malfunction", "In Vehicle Network malfunction" and "ABS Malfunction" were displayed. Additionally, several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact was able to drive to the residence. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with an unknown harness failu... Read more
Incident date: Feb 19, 2025
What component malfunctioned: The driver's side visor has malfunctioned and is extremely difficult to raise and lower. It's motion has become very stiff and requires both of the driver's hands to raise or lower it, which means that the driver must remove their hands from the steering wheel to utilize the visor. It is available for inspection as it is still installed in the car. Safety Risk: T... Read more
Incident date: Feb 19, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while his wife was driving 45 MPH, the vehicle hesitated. In addition, while attempting to shift the into drive, the gear shifter failed to respond as needed. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the dealer was contacted. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that t... Read more
Incident date: Feb 1, 2025
We were going south on [XXX] about 25 mph intending to make a left turn onto [XXX] My wife said “slow down or you won’t make the turn” to which I replied “I am trying but it won’t slow down” As I applied the brakes to slow down to turn, instead the car started to speed up and I could not make the left turn. I continued down the road trying to slow down enough to attempt a left turn o... Read more
Crash
2 injured
Incident date: Feb 1, 2025
We were going south on [XXX] about 25 mph intending to make a left turn onto [XXX] My wife said “slow down or you won’t make the turn” to which I replied “I am trying but it won’t slow down” As I applied the brakes to slow down to turn, instead the car started to speed up and I could not make the left turn. I continued down the road trying to slow down enough to attempt a left turn o... Read more
Crash
2 injured