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 1,850 complaints for FISKER
Incident date: May 29, 2024
Driving home on dark, deserted roads, my brights will not click on. When I click, nothing happens. When I hold the turner back in the mode to “flash my brights”, the bright headlights will come on. I had to drive holding this back almost an hour so I could see. I had a mechanic look and he said the switch is wired to the computer, so it is not an easy fix, but will have to go to the dealers... Read more
Incident date: Jun 24, 2024
Unknown - The airbag light has been on for a while. Check engine light is also on, and after a few repairs/replacements of diagnosed issues the light remains. A Texas vehicle inspection report shows a P0420 fault code that will not go away, as well as a P0741 fault code about a torque converter clutch circuit underperforming or is stuck/off. I have a technical service bulletin from the inspection ... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Jun 25, 2024
Vehicle experienced complete shut down in the middle of the road while stopped at an intersection. Could not turn on hazard lights or put the car in neutral to move out of traffic. Car made a loud thumping noise when I attempted to restart. Vehicle was towed to dealership where I was initially told the battery just needed to be charged and it was ready to pick up. When I went to the dealership to ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 21, 2024
The contact owns a 2018 Riverside Whitewater Travel Trailer. The contact stated that while driving at 25 MPH, the contact noticed a scraping sound. The contact drove the RV to the shoulder of the road. The contact then parked the RV and exited the RV to complete an inspection of the travel trailer. The contact stated that while inspecting the travel trailer, the contact became aware that the A or ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 21, 2024
2018 Ford Edge 2.0l ecoboost engine exhibits a low coolant level, white exhaust smoke is white and/or a runs rough condition with illuminated malfunction code P300 Cylinder 3 misfiring. Level gets so low that the engine will overheat, and we shut the car down. After cooling we fill the over fill reservoir back up. This lasts for 1.5 to 2 weeks. No visible leaks anywhere.
Incident date: Jun 21, 2024
I purchased a new vehicle, 2016 Hyundai, from a local dealer, with a current mileage of 47,000. Hankook tires were OEM with the vehicle. I religiously bring my vehicle into the dealer for all maintenance, including rotating and balancing the tires every 3,000 miles. The first set of tires FAILED (less than 3/32) at approximately 23,000 miles. The dealer indicated that I need new tires and that t... Read more
Incident date: Jun 21, 2024
I purchased a new vehicle, 2016 Hyundai, from a local dealer, with a current mileage of 47,000. Hankook tires were OEM with the vehicle. I religiously bring my vehicle into the dealer for all maintenance, including rotating and balancing the tires every 3,000 miles. The first set of tires FAILED (less than 3/32) at approximately 23,000 miles. The dealer indicated that I need new tires and that t... Read more
Incident date: May 26, 2024
"Engine Maintenance Required See Dealer" Message on Dash Display Engine Coolant Bypass Valve I see this incident repeated for the recent Corolla SE and RAV 4 multiple times with no recall/resolution other than Toyota customers should be prepared to spend close to $750 to fix and replace this part that only takes about 20 minutes to be replaced. This is not new to Toyota. This a rip off. A lot m... Read more
Incident date: Jun 23, 2024
I was pulling into a parking spot. When I do this, my foot is always on the break. I'm an experienced driver (30+ years) and have never had an incident when I felt the car accelerate without my initiation. When I was maybe 5-7 ft from the car in front of me, the car suddenly accelerated (like it was possessed). I immediately slammed on the break and turned the wheel. Thankfully, and amazingly, I a... Read more
Incident date: Jun 23, 2024
Vehicle "service required" light (wrench) displayed on vehicle when commuting from work to home on a Friday. Light went off next time vehicle was used, so vehicle was used to commute from home to work. During this commute, light came on approximately 25 miles from home, and then 25 miles from work (commute is 32 miles 1 way). Driver stopped vehicle and once vehicle turned off, light went off. ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 23, 2024
Vehicle "service required" light (wrench) displayed on vehicle when commuting from work to home on a Friday. Light went off next time vehicle was used, so vehicle was used to commute from home to work. During this commute, light came on approximately 25 miles from home, and then 25 miles from work (commute is 32 miles 1 way). Driver stopped vehicle and once vehicle turned off, light went off. ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 23, 2024
Brake error and traction control error on dash. It is available for inspection. Not sure if it is safe but we have not options. This started several years ago. We have looked at ordering parts and tried to make appointment at dealer but parts were out of stock. We have not ever taken it in to the dealer as this happened literally 2 weeks after our warranty expired. No one has inspected it. There ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 23, 2024
Brake error and traction control error on dash. It is available for inspection. Not sure if it is safe but we have not options. This started several years ago. We have looked at ordering parts and tried to make appointment at dealer but parts were out of stock. We have not ever taken it in to the dealer as this happened literally 2 weeks after our warranty expired. No one has inspected it. There ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 1, 2024
car navigation system is inaccurate. There is a severe lag in displaying where the car actually is located versus where the car is displayed on navigation. Navigation then places me in a location a mile or so away from where I am located and then reports that I am off road. The directions are inaccurate as navigation cannot locate my location accurately and in real time.
Incident date: Jun 12, 2024
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving approximately 65 MPH, the transmission malfunctioned causing the vehicle to jerk and lose motive power before the vehicle stalled. After restarting the vehicle, the message "Transmission Malfunction" was displayed. The vehicle was towed to the local transmission mechanic who rebuilt the transmission, and the vehicle was rep... Read more
Incident date: Jun 12, 2024
When driving the vehicle. The steering will catch or stick when trying to steer the vehicle. This happens regularly.
Incident date: Jun 12, 2024
Transmission drops out of gear and then engages causing a clunk and a lunge or lurch. Extra concern when merging into Interstate traffic. This transmission has never been perfect but it is getting more noticeable when it misses shifts or drops out of gear completely.
Incident date: Mar 10, 2024
The contact owns a 2018 Dodge Journey. The contact stated while driving various speeds, the vehicle inadvertently shut-off with the check engine and traction control warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was initially taken to a dealer however, the cause of the failure was not determined. The failure persisted and the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the spark plugs, alternator... Read more
Incident date: Mar 10, 2024
The contact owns a 2018 Dodge Journey. The contact stated while driving various speeds, the vehicle inadvertently shut-off with the check engine and traction control warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was initially taken to a dealer however, the cause of the failure was not determined. The failure persisted and the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the spark plugs, alternator... Read more
Incident date: Mar 10, 2024
While driving on the interstate, driver and passenger sun visors has fallen out of the sun visor mount blocking/impairing road visibility. It is extremely dangerous when this happens at highway speeds as an individual may lose control on their vehicle.
Incident date: Jun 8, 2024
Car displayed emergency brake on dash and braked while car was traveling at freeway speeds. No obstructions or cars were near vehicle to cause auto braking.
Incident date: Apr 1, 2024
Jeep has failed to repair the outstanding recalls--one of which says my Jeep can spontaneously combust on/off, charging/not charging, driving/not driving. Jeep offered to buy back my Jeep and now has put it into processing hell, essentially reneging its offer to buy back my Jeep, which I have in writing.
Incident date: Apr 1, 2024
I have been trying to get Honda to perform the safety recall since January 2024 (NHTSA Recall Number 23V-844). The dealer (Parker Johnstone's Wilsonville Honda) says the parts are unavailable. American Honda Motor Company customer service was unhelpful and told me to contact a dealer. Honda case #[XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Incident date: Jun 12, 2024
My Headlights are so dim, I have to drive with high beams. It is raining in my, short circuited the trunk, will not open and my bearings have to be replaced. Sounds like a truck. Ughhhh, IMy first and last american made car.
Incident date: Jun 12, 2024
My Headlights are so dim, I have to drive with high beams. It is raining in my, short circuited the trunk, will not open and my bearings have to be replaced. Sounds like a truck. Ughhhh, IMy first and last american made car.
Incident date: Oct 13, 2023
Car stopped accelerating on the highway. Check engine lights and other lights went on. Dealership is refusing to inspect the car without the CEL staying on. My family's life is at risk as long as Kia deems this car safe to drive. The dealer and corporate refuse to inspect it without a check engine light staying on when starting up again.
Incident date: Oct 13, 2023
The contact owned a 2020 Ford F-350. The contact stated that while driving at 45 MPH, towing a boat he heard a loud popping noise. The contact stated that the rear wheels were locked in place, and skid. The vehicle whiplashed and the right side of the vehicle collided with the guard rail and came to a stop and inspected. The contact observed condensation under the middle and rear of the vehicle an... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Apr 27, 2024
Codes c2209-49, c2200-47, u0121, u11bc, u1110, u1412. ABS, traction control, brake and CEL iluminated. No speedometer and no power steering. Codes will not clear. All wheelspeed sensors are operational per scantool in live data mode. Issue not confermed by dealer or independant as the cost is outrageous. And i cannot find a recall to repair issue. These issues i have had since March 2024. Cost for... Read more
Incident date: Apr 27, 2024
Codes c2209-49, c2200-47, u0121, u11bc, u1110, u1412. ABS, traction control, brake and CEL iluminated. No speedometer and no power steering. Codes will not clear. All wheelspeed sensors are operational per scantool in live data mode. Issue not confermed by dealer or independant as the cost is outrageous. And i cannot find a recall to repair issue. These issues i have had since March 2024. Cost for... Read more
Incident date: Apr 27, 2024
My cars engine seized up and almost crashed into someone
Incident date: Apr 11, 2024
A recall was announced over a year ago on the high pressure fuel pump but the manufacturer is still stating they do not have parts to repair. I am fearful of something happening while driving.
Incident date: Apr 11, 2024
Tailgate misalignment and faulty security issue. Tailgate opened unreasonably ant least 3 times: while parked, while driving and caused damage.
Crash
Incident date: Apr 11, 2024
I was driving home from work and all the sudden it went into limp mode, I could barely get her home. Then I found yellow pieces of plastic in my floorboard. My brake light would not go off so I had to unplug the battery. Very scary to have that happen on the interstate, luckily I got off on an exit.
Incident date: Jun 8, 2024
The contact owns a 2018 Honda CR-V. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle lost power steering functionality, and the vehicle became inoperable. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed with rack and pinion failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mi... Read more
Incident date: Jun 8, 2024
Vehicle will not operate in accordance with manufacturer's statements. I can floor the accelerator and it will slowly creep up in speed but never get above 30 mph. I cannot operate this vehicle safely. Fisker has tried to repair it but has had no luck and have gone completely silent without returning emails. I have called the customer service line and have been discounted after two hours on hold. ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 5, 2024
The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, she became aware that the vehicle was handling poorly, after which the tire pressure system service light illuminated. Upon parking the vehicle, the contact smelled a burning odor around the exterior of the vehicle. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was... Read more
Incident date: Jun 5, 2024
The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, she became aware that the vehicle was handling poorly, after which the tire pressure system service light illuminated. Upon parking the vehicle, the contact smelled a burning odor around the exterior of the vehicle. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was... Read more
Incident date: Jun 5, 2024
I had a solid check engine light 2 days ago and called my local Ford dealership and made an appointment for the next morning. I had not experienced any problems that I really noticed with the performance of the car, maybe some rough shifting. I waited at the dealership while the assessment was done and they said they would have to keep it overnight to do a head gasket test. They called this mor... Read more
Incident date: May 17, 2024
CHECK ENGINE, FORWARD COLLISION WARNING, FLASHING "S"DRIVE, NO EYESIGHT, AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING WARNING LIGHTS, ALL CAME ON AT ONCE AND STAYING ON. POSSIBLE THERMO CONTROL VALVE ISSUE - NEEDS A RECALL!
Incident date: Jun 13, 2024
The contact called on behalf of her daughter who owns a 2016 Ford Focus. The contact stated that while her daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. In addition, the vehicle jerked, and the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed wi... Read more
Incident date: Mar 22, 2024
Car continuously shows multiple codes (10+)then won’t shift to neutral or drive and car won’t even turn off. Has happened multiple times with no resolution various codes (dynamic tourque steering, service hill holder , service 4WD, service transmission, anti lock brake system fail, fuel service cut off, U1110, speed control fail, and multiple others
Incident date: Mar 22, 2024
Car continuously shows multiple codes (10+)then won’t shift to neutral or drive and car won’t even turn off. Has happened multiple times with no resolution various codes (dynamic tourque steering, service hill holder , service 4WD, service transmission, anti lock brake system fail, fuel service cut off, U1110, speed control fail, and multiple others
Incident date: Jun 8, 2024
Ghost lights - the backseat lighting turns on and off during driving. It can be turned off after a few presses from the front overhead controls, but then will turn on again on its own. This creates a dangerous situation at night. This has been happening since the update to 2.0 software.
Incident date: Jun 9, 2024
The vehicle did not pass PA state inspection due to broken front shock mounts and severe frame corrosion.
Incident date: Jun 8, 2024
The vehicle did not pass PA state inspection due to broken front shock mounts and severe frame corrosion.
Incident date: May 8, 2024
An “Engine Maintenance Required” signal came on my dash and turns out the coolant bypass valve needs to be replaced. Come to find out almost everyone else with this car has the same problem around 50,000 miles. I bought this car used and have had it for less than a week and the repair is at least $600. Super disappointed.
Incident date: May 8, 2024
The contact owns a 2011 Honda CR-V. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V228000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was confirmed that the rear subframe was severely rusted. The deal... Read more
Incident date: May 8, 2024
At slower speeds, while braking or coming to a stop, if a bump or uneven surface in the road is encountered the car will violently shake. The steering wheel will shake left and right and braking action is lost. This can lead to dangerous situations at intersections or amongst other traffic as stopping distance will drastically increase unexpectedly. Based on previous reports this is likely caused ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 7, 2024
The engine has a bad rattle on every first start (or cold start). There are a ton of posts about this issue, and it sounds like it's a bad cam phaser that's prevalent on all F-150s built between 2017 and 2020. If there are so many trucks affected, then why isn't there a recall in place from Ford? It looks like Ford had some type of extended warranty issued through Jan 2023, but then that sto... Read more