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 384,293 complaints for FORD
Incident date: Nov 15, 2025
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2015 Hyundai Elantra. It was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was approximately 182,204 - 215,000; and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 152,572.
Incident date: Nov 15, 2025
We recently started having issues with the transmission locking into a gear and not changing or downshifting. We received the Code: P0721 which refers to the transmission control module or output shaft sensor is having an issue.
Incident date: Apr 20, 2026
On April 19, 2026, while driving on the highway with my [XXX] son, the vehicle suddenly experienced a complete engine failure and shut down without any warning, leaving us stranded in the middle of the road. This incident posed an immediate and serious safety risk to my family and other motorists and could have resulted in severe injury or worse. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF IN... Read more
Incident date: Apr 12, 2026
Why enclave Burns about 1 to 2 quarts of oil in between oil changes so I'm constantly having to check the oil level and put more oil in it which come really close to being out of oil and causing the engine to seize Buick says this is normal and I don't think it is I have never had a car that uses oil like this new or used in addition to that the transmission is locked up twice since we have owned ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 12, 2026
Why enclave Burns about 1 to 2 quarts of oil in between oil changes so I'm constantly having to check the oil level and put more oil in it which come really close to being out of oil and causing the engine to seize Buick says this is normal and I don't think it is I have never had a car that uses oil like this new or used in addition to that the transmission is locked up twice since we have owned ... Read more
Incident date: Aug 1, 2024
The contact owns a 2024 Ford Edge. The contact stated that while the contact's daughter was reversing, the rear-view camera seized. The contact's vehicle crashed into a vehicle that was parked behind the contact's vehicle. No injuries. In addition, the contact stated that the rear-view camera displayed a frozen image. The contact stated that the failure was not identified until after the crash. Th... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Aug 1, 2024
Steering rack need to replace after drive almost 1900 miles. It has knocking nosie when turn the wheel, the car had been in the shop for three weeks.
Incident date: Aug 1, 2024
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact became aware of a fluid leak on the driveway. The contact inspected the rear of the vehicle and discovered that the fluid leak was coming from the transmission case. The contact associated the failure with an unknown recall. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was ap... Read more
Incident date: Jan 20, 2026
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost automotive power. While attempting to accelerate, the vehicle failed to respond as needed. The contact stated that after pulling over, an unknown warning light illuminated. Additionally, while depressing the brake pedal, the message to activate the electronic parking brake was dis... Read more
Incident date: Jan 20, 2026
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost automotive power. While attempting to accelerate, the vehicle failed to respond as needed. The contact stated that after pulling over, an unknown warning light illuminated. Additionally, while depressing the brake pedal, the message to activate the electronic parking brake was dis... Read more
Incident date: Dec 1, 2023
Vehicle stalls when trying to accelerate. Stalled in the middle of intersection with on coming traffic numerous times
Incident date: Apr 16, 2026
While stopped at a red light, the auto start/stop feature of the vehicle failed to re-start the car causing complete failure. My wife was the first vehicle at a the light in a busy intersection with a [XXX] old in the vehicle. The electronics of the vehicle completely failed causing complete shutdown and unable to restart. Vehicle was towed after blocking intersection for 30 minutes. This has ha... Read more
Incident date: Apr 20, 2026
We have had multiple incidents when the car is at a stop light with the idle stop not active, the vehicle engine will just die. The light turns green and the vehicle is not running, it will take multiple times pushing the start button for it to start back up. This has resulted in multiple almost rear end incidents due to other drivers assuming we would go when light turned green. More recently ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 20, 2026
VEHICLE FAILS TO CHARGE. Receiving error message that the vehicle fails to accept a charge. I've attempted charging using 3 separate chargers and all fail. This issue has been in service at numerous dealerships with no resolve. I was able to charge previously at a reduced rate but now the battery will no longer accept a charge and gives me an error message.
Incident date: Apr 18, 2026
Upon accelerating from a stop, or at various speeds, the vehicle experiences a significant loss of motive power(pulling backwards) followed by an abrupt lunge forward. This hesitation occurs unpredictably and makes entering traffic or intersections extremely hazardous. This feels like a fuel delivery or transmission engagement failure. The last incident occurred on or around the afternoon of March... Read more
Incident date: Oct 13, 2023
On April 11 2026, I was involved in a serious accident involving my 2026 Tesla Model Y. At the time of the incident, I was returning home from my daughter’s event in downtown and had just entered my residential driveway. As I approached the driveway, I applied the brakes and slowed the vehicle. While momentarily stationary or near-stationary, I spoke to my wife, who was seated in the front passe... Read more
Crash
2 injured
Incident date: Dec 20, 2023
My 2022 Nissan Rogue has experienced repeated engine failures beginning at approximately 88,000 miles, including four separate incidents despite repairs performed at authorized dealerships. The vehicle exhibited engine knocking and drivability issues prior to failure. Nissan later issued a recall related to engine issues, and recall service was performed on January 29, 2026. The engine failed ca... Read more
Incident date: Feb 26, 2026
KIA has created a safety hazard by removing the ability for the driver to select LIGHT or DARK mode for the two 7" data and infotainment screens in their 2025 and forward EV6 electric cars. Like many, I have to drive in very fast busy commuter traffic on highway I-66. (exaserbated by driving into the sun in the AM) The DARK mode screens have insufficient contrast even with the screen lighting t... Read more
Incident date: Apr 8, 2026
The contact owns a 2014 Nissan Murano. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the AC compressor became inoperable. The contact stated that the power steering fluid was making an abnormal sound like the fluid was boiling. The message "Maintenance Other" was displayed, and the front air bags warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where... Read more
Incident date: Apr 20, 2026
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while driving at 30 MPH, there was an abnormal screeching sound coming from the engine. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact attempted to pull off to the side of the road, and the vehicle shut off. The contact attempted to jumpstart the vehicle, but after several attempts, the vehicle failed to start. Due to the failure, the... Read more
Incident date: Oct 25, 2025
Vin was not located on the rear camera recall, rear camera does not activate when trans is placed in reverse, first started reverse camera screen would go blank, now screen remains on home and doesnt acknowledge camera , blind spot not active, rear collision detection system not active
Incident date: Apr 12, 2026
Exploding rear window. This is twice that it's happened to this truck.
Incident date: Apr 19, 2026
The contact called on behalf of her mother, who owned a 2013 Kia Rio. The contact stated that while the contact's mother was approaching a stop sign, the brake pedal was depressed, and the vehicle stalled. The contact's mother noticed smoke coming from under the hood. The contact's mother stated that the brake pedal was depressed, but the vehicle failed to stop. The contact's mother enabled the em... Read more
Fire
Incident date: Feb 15, 2026
The contact owns a 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that while driving 65–70 MPH, there was an abnormally loud sound coming from the vehicle. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact attempted to pull over to the shoulder of the road, but the vehicle lost automotive power. Additionally, the engine had seized. The contact stated that while attempting to start ... Read more
Incident date: Feb 15, 2026
I am reporting a severe safety and vehicle integrity issue involving a Toyota vehicle purchased from Wolfchase Toyota. After a technical inspection (Invoice #XXX), it was confirmed that the Engine VIN does not match the Chassis VIN. This indicates an undocumented engine replacement of unknown origin and mileage. As a result, the vehicle's safety systems, engine performance, and structural integri... Read more
Incident date: Apr 20, 2026
While driving at approximately 70 mph on a highway under normal conditions, the vehicle experienced a sudden loss of engine power. A check engine light illuminated at the time of the failure, and the vehicle was unable to maintain normal acceleration or consistent speed. The loss of power created a hazardous situation in active traffic, as the vehicle could not safely maintain speed with surround... Read more
Incident date: Apr 20, 2026
While driving at approximately 70 mph on a highway under normal conditions, the vehicle experienced a sudden loss of engine power. A check engine light illuminated at the time of the failure, and the vehicle was unable to maintain normal acceleration or consistent speed. The loss of power created a hazardous situation in active traffic, as the vehicle could not safely maintain speed with surround... Read more
Incident date: Apr 19, 2026
This vin is most likely affected by the aftermarket DTN inflator wheel airbag. Please let the final owner know of this. This vehicle was sold to Bargain Auto Sales Inc from West Palm beach on August 25, 2021.
Incident date: Apr 19, 2026
This vin is most likely affected by the aftermarket DTN inflator wheel airbag. Please let the final owner know of this. This vehicle was sold to Rightway Automotive credit from Tallmadge Ohio on October 19, 2022 who then sold it to the current owner.
Incident date: Apr 19, 2026
The contact owns a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while reversing from a complete stop, the rearview camera and beeping sound were inoperable, causing the vehicle to crash into an electrical grid. The liftgate and the rear bumpers were damaged. There were no injuries sustained. The vehicle was drivable and was taken to the dealer, where the contact was informed that the VIN was no... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Apr 20, 2025
Our Car is 2016 with 97000 miles with engine failure. Previous driving noticed the Engine will slow down suddenly at times. Preston Hyundai Dealer says bad engine cylinder $6000 is a fire hazzard and needs new engine. I see Hyundai sold 199000 2016 Sonatas and replaced 129000 bad engines. They gave a 120000 mile warranty to the 2016 cars. Hyundai said my car in not on the recall list so they will... Read more
Incident date: Apr 20, 2025
Car vibrates at high speeds. Dealers idea of fixing is to "overinflate tires, drive for 45 minutes and then let hang on lift"
Incident date: Feb 1, 2025
My 2019 Kia Stinger GT2 with approximately 25,000 miles has been out of service since February 12, 2026 for diagnosis and repair of a system issue. The vehicle has remained at the dealership for over two months. Multiple repair attempts have been made, including escalation to Kia corporate engineering. Despite these efforts, the issue has not been clearly diagnosed and no permanent repair has bee... Read more
Incident date: Mar 20, 2026
My 2019 Kia Stinger GT2 with approximately 25,000 miles has been out of service since February 12, 2026 for diagnosis and repair of a system issue. The vehicle has remained at the dealership for over two months. Multiple repair attempts have been made, including escalation to Kia corporate engineering. Despite these efforts, the issue has not been clearly diagnosed and no permanent repair has bee... Read more
Incident date: Nov 12, 2002
I bought this car new from Davidson's in Rome, NY in early March 2026. This is a 2026 model. Two days after I took possession, I noticed that the spare tire well was halfway full of solid ice. The car has a severe leak through the back right side window. The dealer states it needs to be replaced. The interior frames of the car were loaded with water for many weeks as it stood on the lot. Had... Read more
Incident date: Apr 18, 2026
On at least three occasions, the emergency braking system has engaged when there was no risk of a collision. The vehicle ahead was moving forward and was a safe distance ahead. This has occurred even when the forward collision system is set to "Late." When the emergency braking system engaged, it stopped the vehicle with such force that it threw items in the back seat forward into the foot well an... Read more
Incident date: Apr 12, 2026
The contact owned a 2013 Nissan Juke. The contact stated that while driving the vehicle suddenly began decelerating to approximately 40 MPH and veering off an exit. The vehicle suddenly backfired, and black smoke came from the hood and rear end. The contact pulled to the side of the road, turned off the vehicle, and exited the vehicle. The contact noticed something small. sparks of fire underneath... Read more
Fire
Incident date: Apr 17, 2026
My 2025 Hyundai Palisade has multiple open safety recalls that have not been repaired and make the vehicle unsafe to operate. The dealership confirmed safety recalls effect my vehicle and my car is currently at the dealership since April 3rd. The first recall 283, involves the seat belts in the 1st and 2nd rows. Parts were ordered on January 20, 2026, but the repair has still not been completed ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 11, 2026
Any water will disable the abs, traction control. Water shorts out the abs module making abs system inop. I have replaced 2 abs modules. They work great until you drive in the rain. This is a huge safety concern.
FORD
MAVERICK HYBRID
(2023) - POWER TRAIN
Apr 19, 2026
Incident date: Feb 1, 2026
I bought the truck brand new from Gregg Young in Atlantic, IA. While an hour into the drive home, the truck began shuttering as if the transmission was having problems finding the gear. I immediately made an appt with their parent dealership of Gregg Young in Plattsmouth, NE. They had the truck for a week and couldn’t duplicate the transmission issues after I reported several occurrences and sym... Read more
Incident date: Apr 10, 2026
Upon delivery of a brand new 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 with 13 miles on the odometer, the washer fluid warning illuminated the next day. Reservoir was refilled on 3/29 and was completely empty by 3/30. Vehicle was brought to the authorized dealer on 3/31. The technician confirmed via repair order that the washer fluid hose was actively spouting directly above the ICCU — Integrated Charging Control Un... Read more
Incident date: Apr 10, 2026
Upon delivery of a brand new 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 with 13 miles on the odometer, the washer fluid warning illuminated the next day. Reservoir was refilled on 3/29 and was completely empty by 3/30. Vehicle was brought to the authorized dealer on 3/31. The technician confirmed via repair order that the washer fluid hose was actively spouting directly above the ICCU — Integrated Charging Control Un... Read more
Incident date: Apr 19, 2026
Upon delivery of a brand new 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 with 13 miles on the odometer, the washer fluid warning illuminated the next day. Reservoir was refilled on 3/29 and was completely empty by 3/30. Vehicle was brought to the authorized dealer on 3/31. The technician confirmed via repair order that the washer fluid hose was actively spouting directly above the ICCU — Integrated Charging Control Un... Read more
Incident date: Apr 18, 2026
Multiple Wheels (9) have been replaced and multiple tires. Have had to repair each of these wheels upwards of 20+ times and it’s not allowed legally after 3 cracks per wheel. Safety issue as tires would blow out or go flat in short time. Yes, been inspected multiple times by dealers, GM and told not covered under any warranty. One incident, GM agreed to replace the 2 rear wheels at 50% retail!
FORD
ESCAPE
(2017) - SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
Apr 19, 2026
Incident date: Apr 18, 2026
So my truck has the abs module part that has failed on it. Over the time it’s failed we have seen things go out on it that directly relate to safety being a concern. First is the fact that sometimes the brakes fail completely and cause concern that I might hit another vehicle or person. Second is the issue of the truck very rarely accelerating without driver interaction this is a safety issue be... Read more
Incident date: Apr 15, 2026
It’s heisitant when excelerating gas pedal. The back up camera display blanks out , when backing up .
Incident date: Apr 18, 2026
Engine fault light came on took to mechanic nothing popped up on the codes. Then check engine light came on took to another mechanic it showed it was misfiring along with other codes. Then check engine light went away. Then moved car out of driveway and engine overheating light came on.
Incident date: Apr 18, 2026
My 2014 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk (Active Drive II / Sales Code DK4) has a confirmed DTC C14A7-97, indicating the PTU Motor is obstructed or blocked. This has resulted in a "Service 4WD" warning and a complete loss of all-wheel-drive capability. My vehicle was manufactured in November 2013, and I am being denied the XJ1 Extended Warranty (15 years/unlimited miles) because my VIN does not appear in t... Read more
Incident date: Mar 26, 2026
While completing a turn at a T-intersection, the vehicle experienced a complete loss of motive power for several seconds, leaving the car stationary in the path of oncoming traffic. The transmission (10R80) failed to engage, a known symptom of internal CDF Drum sleeve failure (TSB 24-2254). This follows a 'Green' inspection by a dealer on March 23rd where an axle seal leak and shifting issues were... Read more
Incident date: Apr 1, 2025
While completing a turn at a T-intersection, the vehicle experienced a complete loss of motive power for several seconds, leaving the car stationary in the path of oncoming traffic. The transmission (10R80) failed to engage, a known symptom of internal CDF Drum sleeve failure (TSB 24-2254). This follows a 'Green' inspection by a dealer on March 23rd where an axle seal leak and shifting issues were... Read more