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 250,088 complaints for CHEVROLET
Incident date: May 15, 2026
UNKNOWN TRANSMISSION ISSUES MENTIONED IN OTHER RECALLS FOR SAME PERIOD/MAKE MODEL AS LISTED YET MY VIN was not, as a mother 4 little ones I need my vehicle to perform as it was design to, the cost for this repair is over 6,000.00 I have already invested over 40,000 since I brought it. I feel they ought have included my car on this recent recall they had to have known this problem was of their why ... Read more
Incident date: May 26, 2026
There have been numerous days that I press brake to start car in which it does not start. I wait until it will. The trunk seems unaligned as there's more gap on right side. Carpet in front floor is not correct as I have to tuck under trim by door constantly. Backup camera seems distorted and has been not correct in lines to park but remains distorted by the unclear view and awkward angle. While dr... Read more
Incident date: May 26, 2026
There have been numerous days that I press brake to start car in which it does not start. I wait until it will. The trunk seems unaligned as there's more gap on right side. Carpet in front floor is not correct as I have to tuck under trim by door constantly. Backup camera seems distorted and has been not correct in lines to park but remains distorted by the unclear view and awkward angle. While dr... Read more
Incident date: May 26, 2026
There have been numerous days that I press brake to start car in which it does not start. I wait until it will. The trunk seems unaligned as there's more gap on right side. Carpet in front floor is not correct as I have to tuck under trim by door constantly. Backup camera seems distorted and has been not correct in lines to park but remains distorted by the unclear view and awkward angle. While dr... Read more
Incident date: May 15, 2026
OnStar Telematic Control Module. Disables emergency crash capabilities. Problem confirmed By OnStar and dealer that unit is Bricked. Warning light on dash Read; Service Emergency calling . See attached upload below where I wrote VIN incorrectly but correct VIN is located in upload
Incident date: Jun 3, 2026
Vehicle intermittently lunges forward during the 2nd-to-1st downshift, even while the brakes are being applied. When this occurs, the vehicle unexpectedly accelerates or surges forward slightly, travels farther than anticipated, and feels similar to being bumped from behind. Because the condition occurs at low speeds, often in tight areas such as parking spaces, stop-and-go traffic, or before a cr... Read more
Incident date: Jun 3, 2026
Vehicle intermittently lunges forward during the 2nd-to-1st downshift, even while the brakes are being applied. When this occurs, the vehicle unexpectedly accelerates or surges forward slightly, travels farther than anticipated, and feels similar to being bumped from behind. Because the condition occurs at low speeds, often in tight areas such as parking spaces, stop-and-go traffic, or before a cr... Read more
Incident date: Jun 3, 2026
Vehicle intermittently lunges forward during the 2nd-to-1st downshift, even while the brakes are being applied. When this occurs, the vehicle unexpectedly accelerates or surges forward slightly, travels farther than anticipated, and feels similar to being bumped from behind. Because the condition occurs at low speeds, often in tight areas such as parking spaces, stop-and-go traffic, or before a cr... Read more
Incident date: Jun 3, 2026
The turn signal system intermittently malfunctions. When using the turn signal, the auto-cancel function sometimes activates the opposite signal, and at times the stalk does not stay engaged when attempting to signal. This creates a safety risk because surrounding drivers may receive the wrong turning/lane-change indication or no indication at all. The issue has occurred intermittently while drivi... Read more
Incident date: Jun 3, 2026
The turn signal system intermittently malfunctions. When using the turn signal, the auto-cancel function sometimes activates the opposite signal, and at times the stalk does not stay engaged when attempting to signal. This creates a safety risk because surrounding drivers may receive the wrong turning/lane-change indication or no indication at all. The issue has occurred intermittently while drivi... Read more
Incident date: Jun 3, 2026
The turn signal system intermittently malfunctions. When using the turn signal, the auto-cancel function sometimes activates the opposite signal, and at times the stalk does not stay engaged when attempting to signal. This creates a safety risk because surrounding drivers may receive the wrong turning/lane-change indication or no indication at all. The issue has occurred intermittently while drivi... Read more
Incident date: Jun 3, 2026
Car is having a shift to park error message. I am unable to leave the car in parked position without restarting the vechicle several times and moving shifter to Park, Nuetral and Reverse Several times. There shows no recalls on my car. However this has to be a saftey issue covered under warranty. I transport my children in this car and dont want any incidents with the car rolling away hurting us o... Read more
Incident date: Apr 21, 2026
Odometer Fraud. The contact was in the process of purchasing a 2019 Chevrolet Surburban. It was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. Contact stated the vehicle was a private dealer sale were they garage vehicles at 1524 Firestone Blvd. LA CA 90001. Contact stated vehicle was being sold with a milage of 69,430 but it was later discovered that Carfax reported vehicle mileage as 154,2... Read more
Incident date: May 1, 2026
Both my control arms are loose and wheel baring is bad, plus a cracked catalytic converter. All of these are causing my car to be loud and burning smell, causing unsafe driving conditions for me and my children. Online states that the control arms are an issue with this vehicle make and model and have been recalled, however my VIN has not been recalled and I want to report this. improperly welded ... Read more
Incident date: May 1, 2026
Both my control arms are loose and wheel baring is bad, plus a cracked catalytic converter. All of these are causing my car to be loud and burning smell, causing unsafe driving conditions for me and my children. Online states that the control arms are an issue with this vehicle make and model and have been recalled, however my VIN has not been recalled and I want to report this. improperly welded ... Read more
Incident date: May 1, 2026
Both my control arms are loose and wheel baring is bad, plus a cracked catalytic converter. All of these are causing my car to be loud and burning smell, causing unsafe driving conditions for me and my children. Online states that the control arms are an issue with this vehicle make and model and have been recalled, however my VIN has not been recalled and I want to report this. improperly welded ... Read more
CHEVROLET
SILVERADO 3500
(2007) — ENGINE
Jun 3, 2026
Incident date: Jun 2, 2026
The contact owned a 2007 Chevrolet Silverado. The contact stated that while driving at 65 MPH, the contact noticed smoking coming from the under the front vehicle. The contact mention he pulled over the right side of the road, turned the vehicle off and then exited the vehicle and opened the hood of the vehicle and noticed flames coming from the back of the engine. No injuries were sustained. No ... Read more
Fire
CHEVROLET
SILVERADO 1500
(2023) — FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Jun 3, 2026
Incident date: May 29, 2026
I was travelling on the highway at approximately 72 miles an hour in the left lane trying to pass a vehicle in the right lane. while accelerating my truck was like the brakes were slammed on and all kinds of lights starting flashing. This included the check engine light, low oil pressure light and lane assist lights. The truck shifted into Neutral and I could not place back into drive. I swerv... Read more
CHEVROLET
SILVERADO 1500
(2023) — ENGINE
Jun 3, 2026
Incident date: May 29, 2026
I was travelling on the highway at approximately 72 miles an hour in the left lane trying to pass a vehicle in the right lane. while accelerating my truck was like the brakes were slammed on and all kinds of lights starting flashing. This included the check engine light, low oil pressure light and lane assist lights. The truck shifted into Neutral and I could not place back into drive. I swerv... Read more
CHEVROLET
SILVERADO 3500
(2023) — POWER TRAIN
Jun 3, 2026
Incident date: May 19, 2026
Engine started running extremely rough shaking vehicle. Various warning lights lit up. Took vehicle to dealer and was told that I need a new duramax engine because the cylinders are scored. Vehicle has about 58k miles It has been at the dealer for 3 weeks and they say they have no idea when they can get it fixed. It is my only work vehicle and now I have to rent another vehicle to keep working.
CHEVROLET
SILVERADO 3500
(2023) — ENGINE
Jun 3, 2026
Incident date: May 19, 2026
Engine started running extremely rough shaking vehicle. Various warning lights lit up. Took vehicle to dealer and was told that I need a new duramax engine because the cylinders are scored. Vehicle has about 58k miles It has been at the dealer for 3 weeks and they say they have no idea when they can get it fixed. It is my only work vehicle and now I have to rent another vehicle to keep working.
CHEVROLET
SILVERADO 1500
(2021) — AIR BAGS
Jun 3, 2026
Incident date: May 29, 2026
Air bag light was on , took to dealership because this was absolutely a safety hazard! The left front crash sensor is defective.
Incident date: Apr 14, 2026
My 2018 Malibu is stalling, it is covered under Recall N192221960, and the dealer is refusing to properly scan or fix the issue. They did the recall and the car is still doing the same thing but worse.
Incident date: Apr 14, 2026
My 2018 Malibu is stalling, it is covered under Recall N192221960, and the dealer is refusing to properly scan or fix the issue. They did the recall and the car is still doing the same thing but worse.
Incident date: Apr 14, 2026
My 2018 Malibu is stalling, it is covered under Recall N192221960, and the dealer is refusing to properly scan or fix the issue. They did the recall and the car is still doing the same thing but worse.
Incident date: May 23, 2026
Engine fails it violenty thumps and studders and drops from highway speed with no warning. This is a mfg. defect and also an EXTREME SAFETY CONCERN. The engine studders and thumps and we were almost rear ended by a truck when our truck could not go into gear properly. It is very scary! Dealership confirmed that they have many vehicles with same issue and recommended a Super Flush of transmiss... Read more
Incident date: May 23, 2026
Engine fails it violenty thumps and studders and drops from highway speed with no warning. This is a mfg. defect and also an EXTREME SAFETY CONCERN. The engine studders and thumps and we were almost rear ended by a truck when our truck could not go into gear properly. It is very scary! Dealership confirmed that they have many vehicles with same issue and recommended a Super Flush of transmiss... Read more
Incident date: May 23, 2026
Engine fails it violenty thumps and studders and drops from highway speed with no warning. This is a mfg. defect and also an EXTREME SAFETY CONCERN. The engine studders and thumps and we were almost rear ended by a truck when our truck could not go into gear properly. It is very scary! Dealership confirmed that they have many vehicles with same issue and recommended a Super Flush of transmiss... Read more
Incident date: May 27, 2026
purchased a 2014 Chevy Equinox from Direct Auto Sales on 03/07/26, and I am currently experiencing serious issues with the vehicle after only 2 months of purchase I noticed the vehicle is making a clicking and grinding sound the vehicle powers down when driving. The problem still exists even after multiple oil changes.
Incident date: May 27, 2026
purchased a 2014 Chevy Equinox from Direct Auto Sales on 03/07/26, and I am currently experiencing serious issues with the vehicle after only 2 months of purchase I noticed the vehicle is making a clicking and grinding sound the vehicle powers down when driving. The problem still exists even after multiple oil changes.
CHEVROLET
SILVERADO 1500
(2022) — FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS
Jun 2, 2026
Incident date: Jun 1, 2026
The vehicle experiences a recurring electronic and sensor failure where critical advanced safety systems completely shut down while driving. The dashboard displays active failures for the Front Collision Detection System, Automatic Headlights, and Lane Keeping Assistance. These sudden defects directly compromise the vehicle's crash avoidance features, nighttime visibility, and lane safety, creatin... Read more
CHEVROLET
SILVERADO 1500
(2022) — LANE DEPARTURE: ASSIST
Jun 2, 2026
Incident date: Jun 1, 2026
The vehicle experiences a recurring electronic and sensor failure where critical advanced safety systems completely shut down while driving. The dashboard displays active failures for the Front Collision Detection System, Automatic Headlights, and Lane Keeping Assistance. These sudden defects directly compromise the vehicle's crash avoidance features, nighttime visibility, and lane safety, creatin... Read more
CHEVROLET
SILVERADO 1500
(2022) — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jun 2, 2026
Incident date: Jun 1, 2026
The vehicle experiences a recurring electronic and sensor failure where critical advanced safety systems completely shut down while driving. The dashboard displays active failures for the Front Collision Detection System, Automatic Headlights, and Lane Keeping Assistance. These sudden defects directly compromise the vehicle's crash avoidance features, nighttime visibility, and lane safety, creatin... Read more
Incident date: Jun 2, 2026
While driving on the freeway, the vehicle’s battery shut down. I received the following text as this happened, so there was no way I could react in a timely manner as to exercise safety and any precautions: “Diagnostic Alert: Low 12V battery detected in your vehicle. To recharge, try and start in a well-ventilated area. If it won't turn on, try to jump start or call 1-888-4-ONSTAR. Text STOP t... Read more
Incident date: Dec 31, 1969
Deconosco por que fue este en el sistema
Incident date: Dec 31, 1969
Deconosco por que fue este en el sistema
Incident date: Dec 31, 1969
Deconosco por que fue este en el sistema
Incident date: May 23, 2026
The car cut off on the street with no warning. Once I crank the car back up and pulled over, it was leaking fuel and coolant with no warning lights on the dash boatd
Incident date: May 23, 2026
The car cut off on the street with no warning. Once I crank the car back up and pulled over, it was leaking fuel and coolant with no warning lights on the dash boatd
Incident date: May 22, 2026
I go to turn on the car on a Friday night and it won’t turn on. I got multiple failures and it said fatal errors take to dealer immediately. I brought the car to the dealer and they said the control panel needs to be replaced and they’re estimating at least a month. I’m one of four cars on a lot that need work for the same exact issue.
Incident date: May 22, 2026
I go to turn on the car on a Friday night and it won’t turn on. I got multiple failures and it said fatal errors take to dealer immediately. I brought the car to the dealer and they said the control panel needs to be replaced and they’re estimating at least a month. I’m one of four cars on a lot that need work for the same exact issue.
Incident date: May 22, 2026
I go to turn on the car on a Friday night and it won’t turn on. I got multiple failures and it said fatal errors take to dealer immediately. I brought the car to the dealer and they said the control panel needs to be replaced and they’re estimating at least a month. I’m one of four cars on a lot that need work for the same exact issue.
CHEVROLET
SILVERADO 1500
(2005) — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:INSTRUMENT PANEL:SPEEDOMETER/ODOMETER
Jun 2, 2026
Incident date: Jun 2, 2026
The contact owns a 2005 Chevrolet Silverado. It was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was supposedly 168,000. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be inspected, where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced and that the transmission needed to be repaired; the contact did researc... Read more
Incident date: Mar 15, 2026
The power steering has failed 4 times. This is the same problem that the 2015 Colorado's had. There was recall on the 2015 models. There has not been a recall on the 2016 models. but the problem still exists.
CHEVROLET
CAPTIVA SPORT
(2014) — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:INSTRUMENT PANEL:SPEEDOMETER/ODOMETER
Jun 2, 2026
Incident date: Apr 12, 2026
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2014 Chevrolet Captiva. The vehicle was purchased through a dealer sale. The mileage at the time of the purchase was 140,436. It was discovered four days later that there was a mileage discrepancy. The odometer suddenly turned to 228,000. The contact was unable to obtain a title. The state attorney general was contacted, who referred to the state, who failed... Read more
Incident date: Jan 1, 2019
Front turn indicator lights have gone out. Unfortunately, due to Chevy's vehicle design, the bulbs can only be replaced by pulling the bumper off in total and replacing bulbs. Then, putting entire bumper system back. This information was given to me by Chevrolet of Issaquah AND confirmed by Bonita Point Repair in Chula Vista California.
Incident date: Jan 1, 2019
Front turn indicator lights have gone out. Unfortunately, due to Chevy's vehicle design, the bulbs can only be replaced by pulling the bumper off in total and replacing bulbs. Then, putting entire bumper system back. This information was given to me by Chevrolet of Issaquah AND confirmed by Bonita Point Repair in Chula Vista California.
CHEVROLET
SILVERADO 1500
(2015) — SERVICE BRAKES
Jun 2, 2026
Incident date: Jun 2, 2026
I test drove a 2026 Silverado 1500 at Hanania Chevrolet in Saint Augustine Florida on [XXX]. Before the test drive, I advised the salesperson in the rear seat that the Service Brake Assist light was on at the instrument panel. He advised that the light needed to be reset and he would have it taken care of. I returned to the showroom to complete the required paper work and the vehicle was cleaned... Read more
Incident date: Apr 27, 2026
The contact owns Ac condenser became inoperable cluster Mask (ICM). The dealer diagnosed with a failed internal cluster mask. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 115,000.
Incident date: Apr 1, 2025
This is a know issue on 2021 models. The exhaust bracket is breaking away from the muffler/catalytic converter. The weld is breaking causing the exhaust to break away and both pipes must be replaced resulting in a 1500 repair. Why if it bad in later years is there no maintenance bulletin or mandatory fix for the 2020 models? It was repaired and fixed by McClusky Chevrolet in Cincinnati OH.