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: Nov 3, 2023
ALL OUT MOTORS IN CLIO MICHIGAN KNOWINGLY SELLS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS AND UNSAFE VEHICLES, TAKES ADVANTAGE OF YOUNG WOMAN WITH [XXX] SON AND TAKES EVERY DOLLAR OF HERS FOR A CAR THAT IS FAR FROM DRIVEABLE AFTER ONLY A C MONTH OR TWO AND HAS BEEN HIGHLY UNSAFE AND UNRELIABLE AND UNPREDICTABLE SINCE PURCHASE, DEALER REFUSED TO PROPERLY RESPOND TO SITUATION AND HARASSED THE MECHANIC WHO INSPECTED IT A... Read more
Incident date: Nov 3, 2023
Power steering problem which is not safe
Incident date: Jun 3, 2024
The contact owns a 2011 Ford Escape Hybrid. The contact stated while driving at undisclosed speeds, the vehicle experienced electrical power steering failure. The check engine and brake system light warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the failure had been reoccurring for several years. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the torque sensor and th... Read more
Incident date: Jun 3, 2024
My car is included by year in the current airbag recall. However it comes up negative and the airbag icon started blinking last week. There were no incidents prior to the blinking.
Incident date: May 21, 2024
On[XXX] while accelerating to travel speed (45 mph) on a rural Maine highway, the little used glass moon roof of our 2021 Subaru Outback Touring with 24,100 miles on the odometer exploded with a huge, shocking BANG!. Weather was clear and bright, wind ~5 mph, temperature about 68ºF, no traffic. We never saw or heard anything strike the car, either from the road or falling down from the trees a... Read more
Incident date: May 21, 2024
Manufacturing design defect in Ford 2.0L Ford Escape. Number 4 cylinder misfire (P0304) and coolant intrusion into cylinder 4. Common pproblem but Ford has not issued a recall as of 06/01/2024. Conyacted Ford customer relations but no succes. Demanding I pay for the engine replacement. Why - since it is a known defect by Ford? 1.5L ening , same problem and Ford issued recall notice for that engi... Read more
Incident date: May 21, 2024
While traveling at highway speed, with no warning my truck lost acceleration power. There were other vehicles in the road, and I had to travel across multiple lanes to get to an exit while the vehicle was continuously slowing down. This put myself and my children at risk due to the sudden loss of power. I was able to exit and turn the engine off, after which, the problem seemed to stop. I took my ... Read more
Incident date: Jan 30, 2024
When i have a passenger in the car I will intermittantly get the warning "Passenger restraint system malfunction" which will turn off the air bag to the passenger side when driving even when there is a passenger in the car. From forums it sounds like there is a pressure pad in the seat that is a very common malfunction for BMW. This seems like a pretty critical part to ensure the airbags are opera... Read more
Incident date: Jan 30, 2024
When i have a passenger in the car I will intermittantly get the warning "Passenger restraint system malfunction" which will turn off the air bag to the passenger side when driving even when there is a passenger in the car. From forums it sounds like there is a pressure pad in the seat that is a very common malfunction for BMW. This seems like a pretty critical part to ensure the airbags are opera... Read more
Incident date: Jan 30, 2024
The primary central LCD display that controls charging the batteries, displays speed information on smaller and management of how the EV works is no longer working. This LCD panel is the only way to set, monitor, modify, control all functions of this car. I have been unable to get Fisker to fix this problem. I will call them and wait 4 to 5 hours on the phone and my call will always be droppe... Read more
Incident date: May 30, 2024
Vehicle was towing Horse Trailer. Gave an indication message to check trailer break wiring. I did so and all was working fine. I loaded my horses and pulled out onto the road. Traveling 10 mph the truck completely shut off, no brakes, No warning, I helplessly rolled to a stop. The truck then turned on electrically, but did not start the engine completely by itself. Two minutes later, the truc... Read more
Incident date: May 30, 2024
Vehicle was towing Horse Trailer. Gave an indication message to check trailer break wiring. I did so and all was working fine. I loaded my horses and pulled out onto the road. Traveling 10 mph the truck completely shut off, no brakes, No warning, I helplessly rolled to a stop. The truck then turned on electrically, but did not start the engine completely by itself. Two minutes later, the truc... Read more
Incident date: May 31, 2024
The stickers are not on properly. My childs safety wasnt put at risk. I asked a CPST to help with a fit and intall check and we noticed the defected stickers.
Incident date: May 31, 2024
Coolant intrusion - confirmed by a Ford dealer. After researching, I discovered this is a KNOWN ISSUE with these vehicles, but not yet covered by a recall. I may have to pay $8000 for a new engine. Please add me to the list of Escape owners with this problem. And TRY to get Ford to issue a recall!! Thank you, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C.... Read more
Incident date: May 31, 2024
I was slowing down approaching an intersection with cars already at a full stop up ahead. I was braking to slow down in preparation to stop. As I got closer, I drove over railroad tracks and felt the brake pedal begin to vibrate like the automatic emergency braking system kicked in. With my foot still on the brake, the car continued forward without any additional decrease in speed. I pushed my foo... Read more
Incident date: May 29, 2024
When I’m driving my blinkers and windshield wipers turn on and off randomly and the stereo shuts off ac quits working and the windows lock and can’t be rolled down and when I’m at idle it has very loud ticking noise coming from dash board I think it’s the middle area behind stereo this happens multiple times a day and some days it doesn’t stop till vehicle is turned off and I’ve als... Read more
Incident date: Mar 22, 2024
The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Elantra. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. T... Read more
Incident date: Mar 22, 2024
Hi, the CVT fill plug keeps coming out which cause leaks and is a safety hazard. This has happened on numerous occasions. Apparently, it affects the 2016-2018 Honda HR-V and Civic 2015-2018. May you please recall these vehicles to fix this problem because it is a hazard.
Incident date: Mar 22, 2024
The vehicle has developed a noticeable resistance and alarming notchiness when steering especially, but not only, at highway speeds. Honda and our dealer, Executive Honda, are aware of the problem. It seems to affect many like vehicles. They have ordered a replacement steering rack. However, it will not be available until September, at the earliest.
Incident date: May 28, 2024
My grand design had the have frame flex fixed twice and it’s still not fixed correctly. None of the aluminum behind the cap was fixed as grand design didn’t want to fix it and lippert would on touch the steal frame.
Incident date: Jan 9, 2024
Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to file a formal complaint regarding persistent safety issues with my 2011 Toyota Highlander V6 AWD. Specifically, I have experienced significant problems related to the engine timing guide, timing chain, transmission system, which pose a risk to both vehicle occupants and other road users. Vehicle Information: Toyota Highlander V6 AWD, VIN: [XXX] Description of th... Read more
Incident date: Jan 9, 2024
Tire size 215/55 R17 Tire model: Nokian One. All 4 tires cracked at the sidewall and thread, around or below shoulder. It is about less than 20k miles on this set of 4 Nokian One tires. They have been used for 15 months. Nokian released the Nokia One model in 2021.
Incident date: Jan 9, 2024
Tire size 215/55 R17 Tire model: Nokian One. All 4 tires cracked at the sidewall and thread, around or below shoulder. It is about less than 20k miles on this set of 4 Nokian One tires. They have been used for 15 months. Nokian released the Nokia One model in 2021.
Incident date: May 22, 2024
The emergency control module and wire harness got corroded from water. The brakes engaged and had to be towed to the dealership. Was informed at that time about the parts being corroded and needed to be replaced.
Incident date: May 22, 2024
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked and idling, the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact attempted to drive, and the vehicle stalled. The vehicle failed to restart and was towed to an independent mechanic. The mechanic diagnosed the vehicle with coolant intrusion which caused a misfire in cylinders #1 and #2 from a crack in the e... Read more
Incident date: May 22, 2024
The contact owns a 2021 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that after parking the vehicle and shifting to park(P), the contact attempted to turn off the vehicle however, the engine remained running. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent however, on one occasion, the engine remained running for almost 2-hours after pressing the START/STOP button. The contact stated no warning ligh... Read more
Incident date: Dec 1, 2023
We are unable to fill up the gas tank due the recall issue. The dealership says we can bring it in and they will repair but at this time we would have to pay for the repair. VW has not come up with a fix for the recall problem at this time. This problem has rendered our vehicle not drivable. What is the recourse? Fuel also leaks out when trying to fill the gas tank. It could start a fire.
Incident date: Dec 1, 2023
Fisker Ocean One has less than 6K mileage and breaking system is extremely rough and makes lots of noise and squeaks, clash, etc. with abrupt halt sometimes throwing passengers forward. Fisker Ocean One User Instructions do not correspond correct with the actual user vehicle interface as items are missing or not available on the vehicle to correct safety issues per manual vehicle instructions per... Read more
Incident date: Dec 1, 2023
Fisker Ocean One has less than 6K mileage and breaking system is extremely rough and makes lots of noise and squeaks, clash, etc. with abrupt halt sometimes throwing passengers forward. Fisker Ocean One User Instructions do not correspond correct with the actual user vehicle interface as items are missing or not available on the vehicle to correct safety issues per manual vehicle instructions per... Read more
Incident date: Dec 4, 2023
The contact owns a 2011 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, he became aware that the brakes were not functioning properly. The contact had to pump the brake pedal to bring the vehicle to a complete stop. The cruise control, ABS, and traction control warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic; however... Read more
Incident date: Dec 4, 2023
The contact owns a 2016 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving at undisclosed speeds, the vehicle was vibrating abnormally. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that after taking the vehicle for several routine oil changes, the contact became aware that the vehicle was consuming and excessive amount of oil. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was di... Read more
Incident date: Dec 4, 2023
UNKNOWN. Inexplicably, the driver's headrest had deployed (see photos). I noticed it while opening the vehicle's driver door in a parking lot. The vehicle was not parked near any other vehicle. I brought the minivan to the closest Chrysler dealer. For more history please see text that immediately follows from my original 3/2024 communication to you. Original 3/24 Request #1488564 Case/Reference [... Read more
Incident date: May 12, 2024
There has been 2 instances where the vehicle Automatic emergency system engaged abruptly, there was no immediate danger, the system thought there was something infront where there wasn’t. It was a hard brake that we almost crashed and hit our heads on the windshield, Fisker had not responded to several tickets submitted, their phone for support it’s not working our their chat
Incident date: May 12, 2024
Infotainment system of car mutes iPhone telephone to person on other end of phone causing driver to need to pick up phone or interact with screen taking eyes off road. I reported to Subaru of America and was told this is happening in almost every 2024 Subaru. They paid for and provided headphones which causes me to need to use telephone navigation instead of built in to car CarPlay navigation. ... Read more
Incident date: May 12, 2024
Infotainment system of car mutes iPhone telephone to person on other end of phone causing driver to need to pick up phone or interact with screen taking eyes off road. I reported to Subaru of America and was told this is happening in almost every 2024 Subaru. They paid for and provided headphones which causes me to need to use telephone navigation instead of built in to car CarPlay navigation. ... Read more
Incident date: May 12, 2024
Drivers side door weld problem that could cause drivers side door to come open. My drivers side front door makes a creaky sound when I open it. It seems the internal weld to the door has failed. During my research to determine, if this was a national concern, I read internet articles stating this appears to be a faulty spot weld in the Drivers' side door check arm. For me, this started on [XXX... Read more
Incident date: May 12, 2024
Rear backup camera color distortion. Unable to see clearly to back up. I understand that there was a recall for defective cameras for some 2018 Accords but my Vin number isn’t one of them. Don’t know why. I only have 41000 miles on my 2018 Accord, and the backup camera is dead. Should have been recalled.
Incident date: May 11, 2024
The trailer hitch assembly has rusted to the point where it is barely being held to truck frame. It is available for inspection (I do not know how to attach photos to this notice but can e-mail if provided with your address) Have been advised by Chevrolet dealership service manager not to use the hitch under any circumstance. Do not know if any other portion of frame assembly is compromised, nor... Read more
Incident date: May 11, 2024
on May 3 at approx. 4:00 pm I was sitting at a stop light and when it turned green I started to accelerate the jolt was so hard that I thought the car behind me had hit me.When I went to go again it started rolling backwards and I applied the brakes.I could not put it in reverse or drive or even in park; it just kept rolling down the ramp.I applied the emergency brake to keep it from rolling back ... Read more
Incident date: May 11, 2024
The contact owns a 2011 BMW 328I. The contact stated that upon start of the vehicle, there was an abnormal rattling sound coming from the vehicle. Due to the failure, the vehicle was towed to a dealer where the VANOS bolts were replaced. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available.... Read more
Incident date: May 9, 2024
The contact owns a 2020 Buick Encore GX. The contact stated that while parking the vehicle, the gear shifter was shifted into park(P); however, the “Shift to Park” message was displayed. The contact was unable to turn off the vehicle and drove to the residence. The message was no longer displayed after the contact parked the vehicle at the residence. The failure recurred on multiple occasions.... Read more
Incident date: May 9, 2024
The components that failed are the engine and transmission and parts associated with the functionality of these parts. It is currently in the shop but will be available for inspection upon request once repairs are complete. My safety and others were put at risk when these malfunctions occurred (driving incredibly slow on the highway could cause an accident, accelerator malfunctioning that might br... Read more
Incident date: Jan 15, 2024
The outside and inside body parts started to separate. Frame failed. Yes it is available to be inspected upon request 5th wheel could have broken free from tow vehicle while traveling down the highway. . Problem was confirmed by the manufacturer, we were told to bring it in to the manufacturer service center. They confirmed the frame had failed. They deconstructed upper deck and then added s... Read more
Incident date: Jan 31, 2024
Just purchased a 2024 Dodge Hornet for my daughter on [XXX] She was involved in an accident on [XXX]. Cause of the accident was brake failure - as a result of said failure, she stuck a fuel truck going 45 mph on a highway offramp. Airbags did not deploy, seat belt did not lock. Why did this happen on a brand-new vehicle with under 500 miles on it. A witness, who was travelling behind my daugh... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Feb 15, 2024
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed, and the vehicle started shaking. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a failed torque converter. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was informed of NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V427000 (Power Train) however, the VIN was not i... Read more
Incident date: Feb 15, 2024
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the engine was misfiring with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that coolant was leaking into the engine, causing the misfire. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. Th... Read more
Incident date: May 13, 2024
4/24/24 Vehicle began de accelerating quickly, going from 50mph to 28mph. The oil light came on, followed immediately by engine light, then seconds later, complete engine failure. Towed to dealership, where I was informed a week later that the engine needed to be replaced again. Ford replaced engine 1.5 years ago when another catastrophic failure occurred. That engine came with a 36 month warrant... Read more
Incident date: May 13, 2024
I bought a 2018 Ram 1500 and every time I would go to the gas pump It Gets air bound and doesn't fill up it takes 20 minutes to fill up my tank they put a new gas tank a new neck and everything else and it still does it
Incident date: May 13, 2024
i was driving and the car stopped working, was able to steer it and get it stopped in a safe spot. Would not start again. Towed to the local Kia dealership where I bought the car and they said the battery died. Replaced the battery, car still doesn't start. They take another look and say actually the engine is completely dead because there was not oil. There was no light on saying oil was low and ... Read more