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: Jan 11, 2024
The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that when the vehicle was started, the contact noticed that the start of the vehicle was abnormal. The contact drove the vehicle out of the driveway and then into the garage. The contact stated an hour later while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The contact stated that unknown warning lights were illuminate... Read more
Incident date: Jan 10, 2024
There has been no notification of action being taken by Volkswagen to correct the problem regarding NHTSA recall number 23V215 with recall date March 29, 2023. We were notified of this recall by Volkswagen in May of 2023. Volkswagen has failed to remedy this issue in a timely manner. VW dealership will not take vehicle on trade in because value is zero.
Incident date: Jan 10, 2024
The contact owns a 2015 Buick Enclave. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V334000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The dealer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not expe... Read more
Incident date: Jan 10, 2024
My battery died. After a AAA jump, the car started fine but the right-rear-taillight-signal malfunctioned. It was working fine prior to the battery dying. I purchased a new battery and the mechanic said my right-rear-taillight was getting an electrical signal and the bulb work, but I needed a completely new taillight component ($300!) because it still was not working. While researching par... Read more
Incident date: Jan 10, 2024
Vehicle has 11000 miles on it When stopping brakes are soft and pedal can go lower than gas pedal. Have talked to other drivers w same problem w ford rangers. It will b $150 expense Ford dealer says abs bleed procedure will correct. To me this is a safety issue as my foot could I have the gas pedal when braking
Incident date: Jan 10, 2024
I have a 2016 Honda CR-V. When temperatures are very cold, near and below freezing, the tailgate will not open until temperatures warm up or handwarmers are used for about 5 minutes or the use of heat from the hands eventually allows the tailgate to open. This is reported in Honda Bulletin 16-063. However, even after replacement of the tailgate opener switch by the dealer, the problem has reocc... Read more
Incident date: Jan 10, 2024
The contact owns a 2012 Kia Optima. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The contact stated that while driving at approximately 80 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was placed in neutral(N) and steered to the side of the roadway. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 25, 2023
At about 5000 miles the steering sticks and is difficult to keep in lane. When stopped and the steering wheel is moved back and forth you can hear a clunking noise underneath. Took to dealer and could not confirm. No warning lights or messages.
Incident date: Dec 17, 2023
The contact owns a 2014 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle was stopped, and the vehicle was parked at a local shopping center while shopping. Upon returning to the vehicle, the contact's wife attempted to start the vehicle, however the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagn... Read more
Incident date: Dec 17, 2023
1998 Ford F150 S/N 1FTRX18L7WNB03063 Mechanic said the frame is rusting badly. Suggested I not pull a heavy trailer or haul heavy loads in the bed.
Incident date: Dec 17, 2023
1998 Ford F150 S/N 1FTRX18L7WNB03063 Mechanic said the frame is rusting badly. Suggested I not pull a heavy trailer or haul heavy loads in the bed.
Incident date: Nov 17, 2023
The contact owns a 2015 Toyota Rav4. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V734000 (Electrical System) 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 made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms pa... Read more
Incident date: Nov 17, 2023
1st winter of owning vehicle. The engine started to Rev with high rmps about 8000, and no power / speed incrase would happen. This was looked at by dealer within first year. This then happened again, dealer looked at it. Third time, the dealer had a code to look at, and the transmission was upgraded with software. We are now a 4th time at the dealer, and the observed reving is happening agai... Read more
Incident date: Nov 17, 2023
The 3rd row seat belt buckle is imbedded too deep in the seat. This makes it very difficult for a child to buckle themselves and in several attempts the parent or another adult was required to insert the seat belt into the locking device. What is more concerning is the difficulty a child has when trying to release the seat belt. While this may be an annoyance that requires adult intervention it ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 12, 2023
At 57,537 miles, the heads-up speedometer and all other displays were disabled with an error message to "Service Shifter". At the same time, each PRNDL indicator light on the shifter panel lit up RED. Very disconcerting! I cycled the engine and that restored normal operation, but I could find no information on this error in the JEEP manual. On line, however, I found many people concerned about... Read more
Incident date: Dec 2, 2023
The mounting bracket on the front exhaust pipe separates from the pipe. This issue has been identified on 2019 and 2021 models and special coverage adjustment N212356540 Front Exhaust Pipe has been issued. The same exact defect has occured to my 2020 model Enclave.
Incident date: Dec 2, 2023
Have a 2011 Ford Edge Limited purchased new from a local Ford dealer. Seems like Ford has had issues with the backup cameras in all models that cameras have been available since 2007, have resisted and continues not to issue a safety recall. Since 2018 NHTSA have required backup cameras as safety equipment in all vehicles. This camera issues is definitely a safety issue. Ford and its dealer wi... Read more
Incident date: Dec 2, 2023
Have a 2011 Ford Edge Limited purchased new from a local Ford dealer. Seems like Ford has had issues with the backup cameras in all models that cameras have been available since 2007, have resisted and continues not to issue a safety recall. Since 2018 NHTSA have required backup cameras as safety equipment in all vehicles. This camera issues is definitely a safety issue. Ford and its dealer wi... Read more
Incident date: Dec 4, 2023
Truck's power door lock actuators are failing and fail to unlock the doors via remote or the interior door(s) electric unlock button(s). The only way to open the door is via exterior key (if you happen to have it accessible) or if you pull the vehicle's interior door handle, which then "pops" the door lock button. This failure is alarming as in the event of an emergency, access to the interior cab... Read more
Incident date: Nov 20, 2023
I own a 2018 Hyundai Sonata SEL. I purchased the car in 2020 with ~17,000 miles on it. At ~50,000 miles the engine begin burning oil. It has progressively gotten worse. I can’t bring myself to have anyone drive my car because of this issue. It is all to likely that the result of the car burning so much oil in a short period of time. That it can pose a serious risk to anyone driving the car if th... Read more
Incident date: Nov 26, 2023
I had front collision that caused by having difficulty switching my foot from acceleration pedal (gas pedal) to brake pedal, my foot movement from gas pedal to brake pedal has been restricted by friction between my shoe and brake pedal that delayed my foot movement and caused the accident, Automatic emergency brake did not function too. Also air bags did not open at this front collision.
Crash
3 injured
Incident date: Nov 26, 2023
I had front collision that caused by having difficulty switching my foot from acceleration pedal (gas pedal) to brake pedal, my foot movement from gas pedal to brake pedal has been restricted by friction between my shoe and brake pedal that delayed my foot movement and caused the accident, Automatic emergency brake did not function too. Also air bags did not open at this front collision.
Crash
3 injured
Incident date: Nov 26, 2023
1. Component: Electronic throttle body 2. Our vehicle shut down (limp home mode) on the Interstate traveling at high speeds. We narrowly avoided catastrophic accident with other vehicles on the road. 3. The problem was confirmed at the dealership where it is currently being replaced at our expense of roughly $1,000.00 4. Only inspected by dealership (Crain ford little rock, ar) 5. No warning unt... Read more
Incident date: Nov 22, 2023
There is a continuous issues with my battery dying. There are multiple malfunction lights showing, particularly the rear collision light. The check engine light is also showing, and I have had an oil change recently. The car breaks on its own. While backing into a space, the steering wheel would not completely turn right until I straightened up the car. Finally. I have had my driver's side car se... Read more
Incident date: Nov 22, 2023
There is a continuous issues with my battery dying. There are multiple malfunction lights showing, particularly the rear collision light. The check engine light is also showing, and I have had an oil change recently. The car breaks on its own. While backing into a space, the steering wheel would not completely turn right until I straightened up the car. Finally. I have had my driver's side car se... Read more
Incident date: Nov 8, 2023
The contact owns a 2023 Hyundai Elantra. The contact had received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V589000 (Electrical System, Vehicle Speed Control) and the recall repair was completed by a dealer. The contact stated while driving at approximately 60 MPH with the cruise control activated, she momentarily disengaged the cruise control to slow for traffic. The contact stated that when the c... Read more
Incident date: Nov 22, 2023
Disc are advanced, technologically superior, and come standard with enabling more braking force with less pressure. Albeit an impermeable transmission requires no fluid changes and less maintenance, servicing one is challenging. It works well in dusty environments or in heavy–duty tasks, and an malfunctioning transmission risk ruining the entire system. Wiper motor & transmission failed last ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 22, 2023
Disc are advanced, technologically superior, and come standard with enabling more braking force with less pressure. Albeit an impermeable transmission requires no fluid changes and less maintenance, servicing one is challenging. It works well in dusty environments or in heavy–duty tasks, and an malfunctioning transmission risk ruining the entire system. Wiper motor & transmission failed last ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 22, 2023
Disc are advanced, technologically superior, and come standard with enabling more braking force with less pressure. Albeit an impermeable transmission requires no fluid changes and less maintenance, servicing one is challenging. It works well in dusty environments or in heavy–duty tasks, and an malfunctioning transmission risk ruining the entire system. Wiper motor & transmission failed last ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 20, 2023
Systems failed. Recalls incomplete
Incident date: Nov 20, 2023
Systems failed. Recalls incomplete
Incident date: Nov 20, 2023
Sudden, Extreme vibration of front tires on I-95 West Palm Beach FL. Drove immediately to Schumacher Volvo to keep initial service appointment. Service manager advised to replace all 4 tires due to previous experience with OEM Perelli tire failures on Volvo vehicles. Replaced all 4 tires at Costco at $1112+ cost. All photos show failure of foam/padding inside tires by Pirelli P Zero Run Flat. Tir... Read more
Incident date: Nov 18, 2023
1. Passenger presence module internally faulted and passenger presence sensor shorted. They are still in vehicle. 2. Safety at risk because of questionable air bag. 3. Problem confirmed by dealership. Dealership is Bob Moore Buick GMC (405) 721-6000. Invoice #[XXX] 15NOV23. 4. Vehicle has not been inspected by police, manufacturer, or insurance representative. 5. The " Service Airbag" light co... Read more
Incident date: Nov 18, 2023
There is a serious acceleration problem. When trying to enter into traffic either turning left or right or going straight from stopped position, there is serious lag/hesitation to the vehicle accelerating. After pressing the throttle for a couple of seconds with very little movement, it will then jerk and squeal the tires. There have been many times when we have come close to being hit by this pr... Read more
Incident date: Nov 18, 2023
Our vehicle has just over 100k miles, and we have had the front control arms replaced twice. Tesla says that we have to keep replacing because it's a safety issue, but refuses to take ownership of the fact that the control arms should not fail this frequently. In China, Tesla is doing recalls for this part and there is a class action lawsuit in the US. However, Tesla has told me that I need to ... Read more
Incident date: Oct 14, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to exceed 30 MPH. The engine overheated message was displayed, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to drive to the residence. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who replaced the water pump. After the repair was performed, the contact ... Read more
Incident date: Sep 6, 2023
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Focus. The contact stated while driving approximately 25 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed the vehicle hesitated. The contact stated that the engine revved however, the vehicle failed to respond as needed. The contact stated that the vehicle gradually started to respond and moved forward. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. Th... Read more
Incident date: Oct 11, 2023
Internal Engine block coolant leak
Incident date: Dec 30, 2018
THE HIGH VOLTAGE LITHIUM-ION BATTERY IS FAULTY AND BURNS OUT OR SHORTS OUT THE BATTERY MODULES.
Incident date: Dec 30, 2018
THE HIGH VOLTAGE LITHIUM-ION BATTERY IS FAULTY AND BURNS OUT OR SHORTS OUT THE BATTERY MODULES.
Incident date: Dec 30, 2018
THE HIGH VOLTAGE LITHIUM-ION BATTERY IS FAULTY AND BURNS OUT OR SHORTS OUT THE BATTERY MODULES.
Incident date: Nov 3, 2015
AFTER BASELINE 520 UPDATE PERFORMED BY KARMA AUTOMOTIVE VEHICLE EXHIBITS ISSUES WITH LOSS OF PROPULSION AND MULTIPLE CLICKING NOISES WHEN THIS OCCURS. WAS ON A MAJOR FREEWAY AND VEHICLE LOST PROPULSION IN THE FAST LANE.
Incident date: Jan 10, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 FISKER KARMA. WHILE DRIVING 10 MPH, THE ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE BATTERY MODULE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AND WOULD NOT BE REPLACED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V598000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 10,059.
Incident date: Mar 19, 2012
CAR WAS DELIVERED MARCH 19TH, 2012 WITH ENGINE WARNING LIGHTS. DEALER REFUSED TO HAVE VEHICLE EVALUATED, OR INSPECTED. DEALER DID NOT RETURN MY CALL AND FISKER MOTORS DID NOT RETURN MY CALLS. CAR LOST ALL POWER, WHILE DRIVING ON THREE OCCASIONS IN FIRST 60 MILES. IN ONE INSTANCE HEADLIGHTS AND CONTROLS TURNED OFF AT APPROXIMATELY 60 MILE PER HOUR AT NIGHT AND TWICE AROUND 40 MILE PER HOUR, WITH... Read more
Incident date: Mar 19, 2012
CAR WAS DELIVERED MARCH 19TH, 2012 WITH ENGINE WARNING LIGHTS. DEALER REFUSED TO HAVE VEHICLE EVALUATED, OR INSPECTED. DEALER DID NOT RETURN MY CALL AND FISKER MOTORS DID NOT RETURN MY CALLS. CAR LOST ALL POWER, WHILE DRIVING ON THREE OCCASIONS IN FIRST 60 MILES. IN ONE INSTANCE HEADLIGHTS AND CONTROLS TURNED OFF AT APPROXIMATELY 60 MILE PER HOUR AT NIGHT AND TWICE AROUND 40 MILE PER HOUR, WITH... Read more
Incident date: Mar 19, 2012
CAR WAS DELIVERED MARCH 19TH, 2012 WITH ENGINE WARNING LIGHTS. DEALER REFUSED TO HAVE VEHICLE EVALUATED, OR INSPECTED. DEALER DID NOT RETURN MY CALL AND FISKER MOTORS DID NOT RETURN MY CALLS. CAR LOST ALL POWER, WHILE DRIVING ON THREE OCCASIONS IN FIRST 60 MILES. IN ONE INSTANCE HEADLIGHTS AND CONTROLS TURNED OFF AT APPROXIMATELY 60 MILE PER HOUR AT NIGHT AND TWICE AROUND 40 MILE PER HOUR, WITH... Read more
Incident date: Dec 19, 2011
WHILE DRIVING THE CAR, A 2012 FISKER KARMA, AT 35 MPH, THE CAR SHUT ITSELF OFF, ALL LIGHTS ON THE DASH ILLUMINATED, THE BRAKES DID NOT WORK AND THE STEERING WAS IMPAIRED LEAVING BASIC DIRECTIONAL CONTROL ONLY. *TR
Incident date: Dec 19, 2011
WHILE DRIVING THE CAR, A 2012 FISKER KARMA, AT 35 MPH, THE CAR SHUT ITSELF OFF, ALL LIGHTS ON THE DASH ILLUMINATED, THE BRAKES DID NOT WORK AND THE STEERING WAS IMPAIRED LEAVING BASIC DIRECTIONAL CONTROL ONLY. *TR
Incident date: Dec 19, 2011
WHILE DRIVING THE CAR, A 2012 FISKER KARMA, AT 35 MPH, THE CAR SHUT ITSELF OFF, ALL LIGHTS ON THE DASH ILLUMINATED, THE BRAKES DID NOT WORK AND THE STEERING WAS IMPAIRED LEAVING BASIC DIRECTIONAL CONTROL ONLY. *TR