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 78,021 complaints for HYUNDAI
Incident date: Nov 7, 2025
While driving at normal city speeds, the vehicle suddenly displayed a warning message stating “Stop vehicle and check power supply,” accompanied by a red battery warning indicator. Shortly after the warning appeared, the vehicle entered a reduced-power or “limp” mode, with severely limited acceleration and speed. This created a safety concern as the vehicle could not maintain normal traffi... Read more
Incident date: Jan 20, 2026
Horn keeps breaking and doesn't work dealer said this is a known issue. This will be my second time replacing it when I schedule appt maybe water keeps getting inside it and ruining it? Please fix this it is a safety hazard
Incident date: Jan 20, 2026
Everyday I drive the vehicle There are 2 error messages 1. Front Camera fault, service required 2. Pre-collision Assist not available I have 32 Pre-collision warning messages in the last month, one for every day I drive. I had to drive 4 hours with no cruise control causing my leg to cramp at the 2 hour mark. There needs to be a recall for this issue. Many many other owners of the Mach-e... Read more
Incident date: Jan 3, 2026
12 volt battery drained in my driveway on 1/20. Vehicle was completely dead including door and hatch locks. Roadside assistance jumped the 12 volt battery. Vehicle message said, “Insufficient power. Check Electrical system”. Vehicle was towed to local Hyundai dealer, who diagnosed an ICCU failure. The dealer has four other Ioniq 5s with the same problem. Replacement ICCU is on back orde... Read more
Incident date: Jan 3, 2026
12 volt battery drained in my driveway on 1/20. Vehicle was completely dead including door and hatch locks. Roadside assistance jumped the 12 volt battery. Vehicle message said, “Insufficient power. Check Electrical system”. Vehicle was towed to local Hyundai dealer, who diagnosed an ICCU failure. The dealer has four other Ioniq 5s with the same problem. Replacement ICCU is on back orde... Read more
Incident date: Jan 27, 2026
All four cylinders misfired in my car while driving causing the catalytic converter and all four fuel injectors to need to be replaced. My car suddenly stopped driving in a rural area with only a few minutes of warning when the engine light came on. I was not even able to drive to a nearby shoulder. I was stranded on the side of the road in 5 degree weather until a tow truck could come.
HYUNDAI
SANTA CRUZ
(2023) - EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Jan 28, 2026
Incident date: Mar 7, 2025
The automatic transmission shift cable, has malfunctioned. The center piece that connects to the gear shift has melted, and prevents the car from starting and shifting gears. The damage was created due to high temperatures from the motor, being that it is very close to it. This should be replaced by the manufacturer.
HYUNDAI
SANTA CRUZ
(2023) - POWER TRAIN
Jan 28, 2026
Incident date: Mar 7, 2025
The automatic transmission shift cable, has malfunctioned. The center piece that connects to the gear shift has melted, and prevents the car from starting and shifting gears. The damage was created due to high temperatures from the motor, being that it is very close to it. This should be replaced by the manufacturer.
Incident date: Nov 28, 2025
At least two separate wiring harnesses have failed on my vehicle, affecting the tail lights. My vehicle cannot pass New York State safety inspection because of this issue. Safety of myself and other drivers is at risk, especially at night, since my vehicle is not properly illuminated. Occasionally, one tail light will go out or flicker. I had one trailer harness removed under a safety recall, but... Read more
Incident date: Jan 23, 2026
1) I just purchased the vehicle in Oct 2026 & 3 days after purchase, it broke down in Walmart parking lot due to, all the antifreeze pouring out. 2) December 2026 had to replace the front tires as they were stripped to the threads from rubbing against the fender wells. 3) January 2026 Wouldn’t start, wouldn’t turn over or anything. Had the ignition replaced. Ran fine for one week. 4) Currentl... Read more
Incident date: Jan 22, 2026
Two weeks ago I heard a faint ticking sound. I had a professional look at it and they said that I had a cylinder sticking and to add an additive the next oil change. I still had 1,500 miles until then and so I did not do that. That noise stopped a day later. Last Friday, it started to tick again, and then it got very loud. I live rurally and was 45 minutes from home. The engine went from ticking t... Read more
Incident date: Jan 22, 2026
Two weeks ago I heard a faint ticking sound. I had a professional look at it and they said that I had a cylinder sticking and to add an additive the next oil change. I still had 1,500 miles until then and so I did not do that. That noise stopped a day later. Last Friday, it started to tick again, and then it got very loud. I live rurally and was 45 minutes from home. The engine went from ticking t... Read more
Incident date: Nov 3, 2025
The oil pressure switch is faulty. The oil indicator light comes on when I'm idling, and I'm also losing 1 quart of oil every 1,000 miles. This was reported on previous Kia models of this make and model, which extended the warranty to 15 years/150k miles. Kia isn't honoring this anymore, even though my switch was diagnosed as bad. Seems Kia never fixed the problem, as my Kia has 113,000 miles ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 3, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Corolla. The contact stated that while driving at 15 MPH, while attempting to depress the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to respond. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was towed to dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed and determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The transmission was replaced, and the vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer wa... Read more
Incident date: Nov 3, 2025
While driving my 2025 Nissan Armada Platinum Reserve during morning rush hour traffic and moving with the speed of traffic, the accelerator (gas) pedal assembly physically broke off, causing an immediate loss of throttle control. The failure occurred in active traffic at a busy intersection located at the top of a hill, leaving the vehicle stranded partially in a turn lane and straight-through la... Read more
Incident date: Jan 2, 2026
The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the turn signal flashed two or three times and then stopped. In addition, the doors independently locked and unlocked, and the TPMS sensors were inoperable. The contact stated that when the failure occurred, the front headlights flashed off and came back on. The vehicle was not diagnosed or re... Read more
Incident date: Jan 3, 2026
The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the turn signal flashed two or three times and then stopped. In addition, the doors independently locked and unlocked, and the TPMS sensors were inoperable. The contact stated that when the failure occurred, the front headlights flashed off and came back on. The vehicle was not diagnosed or re... Read more
Incident date: Dec 7, 2025
While driving my Kia EV6 in the middle of a snowstorm, the vehicle experienced a sudden and severe power failure. I heard a loud popping sound from the rear of the cabin, after which the vehicle immediately entered reduced-power (limp) mode. Within approximately one minute, the vehicle shut down entirely and lost all propulsion and mobility. I was able to move the vehicle to a safe location only ... Read more
Incident date: Jan 23, 2026
I received the recall Notice 23S64/NHTSA23V905 from the dealership where I purchased my Ford Ecosport in August 2025. I called the dealership to schedule the repair on August 28, 2025. I spoke with Brandon from the service dept. He told me that they would need the car for two weeks to even determine IF the part in my vehicle indeed needed to be replaced and then, if so, they would have to see if t... Read more
Incident date: Dec 27, 2025
The contact owns a 2015 Ford C-Max Energi. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention). The contact called the local dealer and the manufacturer for an ETA on parts availability and was informed that a date was not available. The contact was informed that another letter would be sent from the manufacturer whenever the part was available. The contact... Read more
Incident date: Jan 1, 2025
I've taken my car in now 4 times to Chevy dealers just to be told there was nothing wrong. Turnes out that my torque converter (transmission) is going bad. And I can't get a Chevy dealer to honor my almost expired warranty.
Incident date: Jan 1, 2025
Heated steering wheel reaches temps of 137 - 143 degrees. Should have the ability for the owner to select a lower temperature setting the same as the heated seats.
Incident date: Jan 1, 2025
Heated steering wheel reaches temps of 137 - 143 degrees. Should have the ability for the owner to select a lower temperature setting the same as the heated seats.
Incident date: Jan 24, 2026
The contact owns a 2023 Volkswagen ID.4. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V030000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. 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 ... Read more
Incident date: Jan 28, 2026
I took my Jeep to the dealership to have the 68C recall fix done. Upon “passing” I was told I could continue charging as normal. I began charging as I did prior to the recall and recall fix and it fried my GFCI outlet and thankfully so or it my house would have caught fire. The only thing on that circuit is the Jeep charger and garage door opener, same as before the recall and recall fix. I’... Read more
Fire
Incident date: Jan 23, 2026
Complaint Description: While driving my 2025 Honda Odyssey, the Auto Idle‑Stop system engaged in the middle of an intersection at a traffic light, shutting the engine off as designed. When I released the brake pedal, the engine failed to restart, leaving the vehicle stalled in traffic. The dashboard displayed warning indicators including the battery light, and the only way to move the vehicle wa... Read more
Incident date: Jan 23, 2026
Oil filter housing leak. Does not impact oil levels but more notable during cold weather as the ring tends to shrink.
Incident date: Apr 20, 2025
The vehicle caught fire while driving along the interstate. It's a total loss.
Fire
Incident date: Apr 20, 2025
I am writing to express my frustration and disappointment regarding the ongoing VSA/ABS module failure in my 2013 Honda Civic Si. This issue, common among Honda vehicles from 2013–2017, has caused significant stress, both financially and emotionally. The ABS module in my vehicle has malfunctioned, affecting the vehicle’s anti-lock braking and stability assist systems. This is a serious safety ... Read more
Incident date: Jan 14, 2026
The ICCU in my car has failed twice, within an 8 month period. (this submission is to report the 2nd occurrence) At each occurrence, after starting the vehicle, a loud pop was heard. The pop sound is known to be the fuse in-line with the ICCU. After driving the car a short distance, the dashboard displayed warning messages to "Check Electric Vehicle System" and to pull the car to a safe area. ... Read more
Incident date: Jan 28, 2026
The contact owns a 2023 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving uphill, the vehicle unexpectedly lost motive power. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle failed to restart and was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the engine block had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that later, while driving ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 24, 2025
The contact owns a 2023 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving uphill, the vehicle unexpectedly lost motive power. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle failed to restart and was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the engine block had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that later, while driving ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 24, 2025
The contact owns a 2025 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact stated while driving approximately 70 MPH, the vehicle shifted into LIMP Mode, causing the vehicle to decelerate unintendedly. During the failure the headlights and the interior lights flashed and flickered, and the ABS, traction control, and several unknown messages were displayed. While depressing the brake pedal, the brake pedal extended t... Read more
Incident date: Jan 16, 2026
I am filing this complaint regarding a serious and ongoing safety issue with my GMC Yukon Denali that began with a complete engine failure while driving on the highway with my entire family in the vehicle. While driving at highway speed (about 60–70 mph), the vehicle suddenly lost power and shifted into neutral on its own. While still moving, I tried multiple times to shift back into Drive so I ... Read more
Incident date: Jan 27, 2026
I am filing this complaint regarding a serious and ongoing safety issue with my GMC Yukon Denali that began with a complete engine failure while driving on the highway with my entire family in the vehicle. While driving at highway speed (about 60–70 mph), the vehicle suddenly lost power and shifted into neutral on its own. While still moving, I tried multiple times to shift back into Drive so I ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 10, 2025
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the dealer to be repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train). The dealer performed a transmission flush, which the contact stated could cause additional issues with the current recall that had not been repaired due to parts not being available. The contact reported an issue with the Warranty G... Read more
HYUNDAI
SANTA FE SPORT
(2013) - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jan 28, 2026
Incident date: Jan 17, 2026
The contact owns a 2012 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the instrument panel became inoperable and failed to operate as needed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a complaint was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 66,000.
Incident date: Oct 28, 2024
CV Axle makes a clicking noise whenever vehicle is making a turn from initial stop to acceleration. Vehicle started making noise at or around 7k miles from taking New Car Delivery.
Incident date: Nov 5, 2025
A few weeks ago my seatbelt censor started acting up, and then two weeks later that my heater quit. They blamed Chewed wiring because of soy based coatings, and set its not in the warranty and accused rodent damage since the rear seat was eaten. I got the call during diagnosis demanding i bring the loaner car because they wanted $1,349.07 which i did not have because a 9/11 first responder and don... Read more
Incident date: Jan 20, 2026
The vehicle experienced a powertrain failure involving the Power Transfer Unit (PTU). On June 19, 2025, the vehicle was inspected at Dobbs Tire & Auto at approximately 154,548 miles after a grinding noise and drivetrain noise were observed. The shop found metal shavings in the rear differential fluid and advised the vehicle be taken to a Jeep dealership. Because the vehicle was originally purchase... Read more
Incident date: Jan 20, 2026
LED Headlight assembly failure. Loss of headlight is a safety concern because by law you need both headlights working. It allows cars to see you. The malfunction of the headlight has been confirmed by a Ford Dealership. There are several reports online of this happening to the 2020 Explorer LED headlamps. The only warning was the message system.
Incident date: Jan 20, 2026
As reported. while driving the vehicle at night the driver noticed smoke externally behind the truck, upon pulling over smoke started to enter the cab through the dash vents. The driver immediately exited the vehicle went to the front of the vehicle and opened the hood and smoke came from the engine compartment. A flame/fire could be seen in the engine compartment. 911 emergency services were call... Read more
Fire
Incident date: Jan 27, 2026
The contact owns a 2015 Land Rover Range Rover Sport. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V514000 (Steering); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that upon inspecting the vehicle, there was a crack on the suspension upper joint. The dealer was notified and was shown pictures of the failure, but the vehicle was not diagnosed ... Read more
Incident date: Jan 27, 2026
Vehicle can be completely off and windshield wipers are still going. So you have to pop the hood and pull fuse out. If you want to use them ( it starts raining, dirty windshield) you have to stop pop the hood and put fuse in. Has been in shop almost weekly repaired every part they could possible switch and still not repaired.
Incident date: Jan 19, 2026
The contact owns a 2022 Ford F-150. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V455000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, there was a large stain on the ground. The contact moved the vehicle and checked, and became aware that there was a new oil stain on the ground where ... Read more
Incident date: Jan 28, 2026
The contact owns a 2019 Ford Flex. The contact stated that while reversing, the rear-view camera display blacked out. The contact stated that the rear-view camera display operated properly occasionally. Additionally, the front passenger’s side B-pillar trim was loose, and there was an abnormal whistling sound coming from the B-pillar. The dealer was made aware of the failure; however, the contac... Read more
Incident date: Nov 11, 2025
The heat does not work in my Jeep on electric or hybrid and it’s a coolant system failure. The parts fail and Jeep hasn’t been able to fix the problem after two attempts in service. It is frigid and the temperatures have plummeted and there is no heat working in the vehicle. The check engine light has come on indicating that there is an issue and the dealer resets it, but heat not fixed. Y... Read more
Incident date: Jan 20, 2026
Vehicle has a cvt transmission and has faulty bearings. Started making a dragging rough noise. Needs a whole new transmission.
Incident date: Jan 20, 2026
Contining with issue referenced in 11701484. This morning (1/28/26) when leaving my home, I backed out of my driveway. Once I put the car into drive, the forward collision warning went off and locked up my car. The brakes would not release and I could not move out of the way of oncoming traffic. I do not know what allowed the brakes to finally release. I changed over to 4x4, put it into park ... Read more