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: Jul 21, 2025
Heater does not warm up. Ran the truck for an hour and no heat to defrost windshield. This also occurs while driving and the defroster won't clear the windshield, and have to resort to using a rag. Looked for possible causes on the internet, and found this is a common complaint. There are many articles suggesting where to look for resolution. There was a similar complaint on this site listed u... Read more
Incident date: Jul 21, 2025
While driving, the vehicle experienced a mechanical failure involving the engine and lubrication system. Oil leakage was observed, and the engine began operating abnormally. This created a risk of sudden engine failure while the vehicle was in motion, which could result in loss of power, stalling, or loss of control, especially at highway speeds or in traffic. Prior to the failure, warning signs ... Read more
Incident date: Jul 21, 2025
FEDERAL SAFETY RECALL 23V-431 FAILED AFTER FOUR REPAIR ATTEMPTS - MULTIPLE SAFETY SYSTEMS NOW NON-FUNCTIONAL My Honda was subject to Federal Safety Recall 23V-431 (MOST Communication Cable causing backup camera failure). After FOUR repair attempts, the original defect persists AND multiple additional safety-critical systems are now failing. REPAIR HISTORY: August 7, 2023 (30,749 miles) - Honda Sa... Read more
Incident date: Feb 1, 2022
I was traveling on the highway doing 70 mph in the left lane when warning lights started appearing on the dash. The first light was an ABS light. 5 minutes later the truck completely died. I was able to coast across the right hand lane and make my way into the shoulder. With the vehicle completely shut down, I had lost power steering and brake effectiveness. Fortunately, traffic was light and I wa... Read more
HYUNDAI
SANTA FE SPORT
(2018) - POWER TRAIN
Dec 29, 2025
Incident date: Oct 25, 2025
Problem Description (very important): My 2018 Jeep Wrangler experiences a severe and violent front-end shaking commonly referred to as “death wobble.” This occurs while driving at highway speeds and makes the vehicle difficult to control until I slow down significantly. The shaking feels dangerous and unpredictable and creates a serious safety risk. I transport my children in this vehicle, and... Read more
Incident date: Dec 16, 2025
My 2020 GLE 350 first displayed a problem with left indicator on front left hand head lamp. I took an appointment with my Mercedes dealer for repair. Then it started showing all kinds of safety problems on the screen -like blind spot monitoring, collision warning etc not working. I parked it in my garage, shut off the engine, locked it and in a couple minutes, it started a blower like sound. I cal... Read more
Incident date: Dec 22, 2025
1. at night when i toggle hi beams the light black out and i have to jiggle the toggle 2. My HECU assembly is out, I have about 7 lights on my dash.
Incident date: Dec 29, 2025
Car warning states “steering assist fault service required” total loss of power steering in the vehicle after sat parked for a week, vehicle started without issue, no warning codes can be found with OBDII scanner
Incident date: Dec 29, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure); however, the recall remedy parts were not fully available. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that the recall remedy was partially available. The dealer stated that the driver-side A-pillar trim was available, but the passenger-side A-pillar trim was not yet available... Read more
Incident date: Dec 29, 2025
I have a faulty transmission that is now widely known. 2021 Highlander with the UA80 transmission. Out of warranty and Toyota wants to provide no help even know this is an ongoing issue with so many owners
Incident date: Dec 29, 2025
I started noticing issues with my transmission around 55,000 miles on it. It first started with no noticing that it wouldn’t gear down when it needed to, and then when it finally did gear down, it would really jerk the vehicle. I started calling GMC then and questioning and putting in a claim. Just went back-and-forth four months. Now it was getting worse to where I could feel the transmissi... Read more
Incident date: Dec 29, 2025
1- Component and system failed. Mini Copper, Contryman S : The key entry stopped responding. We managed to enter into the car, by removed the fob and using the key to open car. One inside, we noticed water dripping off the cd area and the dashboard. A further look reveled more water. 2- How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk?. Mini Copper, Countryman S: We made a short stop in... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Nov 19, 2025
The car is experiencing the same problem reported on technical service bulletin SA187 (Blind spot detection (BSD) system logic improvement (SA 187)) BUT KIA states my VIN number is not listed under the service bulletin and therefore I have to pay $189 to get a software upgrade done. The "Check BSD system" illuminated in the instrument cluster has been cleared twice by my mechanic and still comes ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 24, 2025
Problem with all safety feature sensors like Adas, lane assistance. Small car icon which always green turned orange, and none of those features working.
Incident date: Dec 8, 2023
Loud axle clicking when turning from both wheels
Incident date: Dec 8, 2023
Loud axle clicking when turning from both wheels
Incident date: Nov 24, 2025
Loud axle clicking when turning from both wheels
Incident date: Nov 24, 2025
The passenger side air bag indicator constantly turns off and on in my Audi no matter if there is or is not a passenger in the seat. I took my vehicle to an authorized Audi service center to have the issue checked and they determined the issue to be a failed pods mat based on the error code returned. Upon researching, I’ve discovered that this issue was a safety recall issue with Audi A5 Sportba... Read more
Incident date: Nov 24, 2025
The passenger side air bag indicator constantly turns off and on in my Audi no matter if there is or is not a passenger in the seat. I took my vehicle to an authorized Audi service center to have the issue checked and they determined the issue to be a failed pods mat based on the error code returned. Upon researching, I’ve discovered that this issue was a safety recall issue with Audi A5 Sportba... Read more
Incident date: Dec 20, 2025
We bought this vehicle from a local dealer in March (9months ago) in the time we’ve had it… it’s been in the shop for about 6 of them. 1- About 3 weeks after the purchase it shut off while I was driving on the highway. We then took it to the dealership in Jasper, Ga bc the error code said the pcm needed to be reset. They couldn’t get it to reset so they embarked on a diagnostic that took ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 27, 2025
On November 25th, 2025 I had my wife, kids and baby grandson in my truck driving approx 50 mph when the trailer brake light appeared on my dash. I thought that was strange since I was not pulling a trailer. Shortly after my truck felt like it was going to stall and complete loss of power. I pulled into a turn lane and coasted into a gas station parking lot. I put the truck into park and turned the... Read more
Incident date: Dec 27, 2025
Large Crack spanning from driver side to passenger side. No impact spot noted, no vehicle impact or accident to cause the Crack. Crack is located at defroster level of windshield
Incident date: Dec 27, 2025
As I was driving myself and child on the interstate 65 mph the vehicle all of a sudden dropped speed and would not accelerate. I drifted the car off the interstate off ramp and pulled into a store parking lot. Luckily, we did not cause an accident or hit anything or anyone. All the lights on car's dashboard blinking some examples are EPS, VSA, Malfunction lamp, Breaking system, check engine light,... Read more
Incident date: Dec 25, 2025
2024 F250 Super Crew Cab, Single Rear Wheel, King Ranch. While driving on clearly marked highway, Lane Centering immediately begins to "Ping=Pong" or oscillate between clearly marked highway center and shoulder lanes markings. It is not a slow oscillation and if allowed to go unchecked for more than 2-3 complete side to side oscillations will go out of the lines and onto the shoulder. I haven't a... Read more
Incident date: Dec 28, 2025
With this 2025 Lexus NX350 Premium AWD, the front windshield glass is BADLY distorted. Looking at the road ahead while seated behind the steering wheel, objects aren't clear, they tend to be wobbly as there is a MAJOR safety issue here with the glass itself. My dealer told me that the other 2025 Lexus NX models they checked all have the same distorted windshield problem as mine does. Its so bad, I... Read more
Incident date: Dec 17, 2025
My 2018 RAM 2500 has had an ABS system recall since Nov 2024. My truck has had a problem with the ABS since 2019. I do not have anit-lock brakes or cruise control as a result of this failure to be able to resolve the problem. Over a year since the recall, and still no parts available. How long is the NHTSA going to let RAM get away with this?? Maybe after some has an accident or hurts someone they... Read more
HYUNDAI
SANTA FE SPORT
(2017) - POWER TRAIN
Dec 28, 2025
Incident date: Dec 19, 2025
The engine failed after a prior engine replacement performed by the manufacturer. The failure caused the vehicle to become non-operational and created a risk of sudden loss of power and engine stalling while driving. The vehicle required towing and could not be safely driven. This is a repeat engine failure involving the same vehicle.
Incident date: Nov 18, 2025
Lifter failure with cylinder #6. Car violently shook prior to this failure. No engine lights or messages until the next day when tried to drive. Ended up towing car to dealer. Car had 76k miles on it. Recall on 6.2L, but not on the 5.3L which is not immune to this same issue as the 6.2L engine.
Incident date: Jun 30, 2025
I have maintained my car regularly. I use LOFSYNBLEND oil at 7500 mile intervals per car and oil manufacturer. At 70000 mile oil change the tech showed me that less than a quart of oil came out of the crankcase during the oil change. There were no visible leaks, no visible smoke coming out of the exhaust when I drove the car, and NO warning light. This was the first time that this issue was pres... Read more
Incident date: Dec 27, 2025
On December 28 the tailgate on my Volvo 2025 xc60 PHEV began to open and close randomly while it was not running, parked in my garage and and plugged in. I unplugged the car from the charger, firmly closed the tailgate and went back in side my house. I checked on the car several minutes later to find the tail gate open again. I again firmly closed the tail gate and this time ensured that I lock... Read more
Incident date: Dec 27, 2025
On December 28 the tailgate on my Volvo 2025 xc60 PHEV began to open and close randomly while it was not running, parked in my garage and and plugged in. I unplugged the car from the charger, firmly closed the tailgate and went back in side my house. I checked on the car several minutes later to find the tail gate open again. I again firmly closed the tail gate and this time ensured that I lock... Read more
Incident date: Dec 1, 2025
First there are holes in the block from a rod bearing coming off. It was leaking oil and started on fire. There are many recalls and law suits regarding this matter and we shouldn’t be on the hook for putting a new engine in.
Fire
Incident date: Dec 1, 2025
Car consistently jerking as soon as you accelarate. The acceleration takes along time to pick up speed.Can feel the car missing gears or slipping while driving even on the freeway.
Incident date: Apr 1, 2019
After fuel gage recall completed, vehicle still doesn’t read fuel level correctly. Sometimes doesn’t show fuel level at all, sometimes, after refueling to a full tank, computer only shows 250 miles of range.
Incident date: Dec 27, 2025
Date & Time: December 25, approximately 6:00 PM Location: Northbound I-880 between the Mowry Avenue and Thornton Avenue exits, Fremont, CA Weather & Road Conditions: Heavy rain at the time of the incident. Road surface was wet with reduced visibility. Vehicle & System State: Tesla Model Y. Driver assistance / self-driving functionality was active at the time of the incident (traffic-aware cruis... Read more
Incident date: Dec 26, 2025
My vehicle is subject to two open safety recalls: 68C (PHEV High Voltage Battery) and 78C (PHEV 2.0L Engine Fire / Loss of Propulsion). Recall 78C currently has no available remedy and involves risk of engine fire and sudden loss of propulsion without warning. The manufacturer has issued guidance advising modified use and safety precautions, including parking the vehicle outside and avoiding cer... Read more
Incident date: Dec 25, 2025
Sirs: I am reporting TWO issues: One: My car should have been included in the recall campaign for rear coil spring fracture that other 2015 Golfs have experienced. I had to pay to replace fractured rear coil springs myself, last year. Two: Volkswagen has made it impossible for me to get ANY recall performed, including the suction fuel pump recall. After I filed a 1 star review for the utt... Read more
Incident date: Nov 17, 2025
What happened to me is a common problem with these models. I had an issue with the 12 V battery not being charged by the main battery as it should be. This led to a blowing of the main fuse which took out the ICCU unit. This seems to be fairly prevalent from what I can tell from online forums, and there needs to be a recall from Hyundai.
Incident date: Nov 20, 2025
Concern: Suspension, steering, and electrical system malfunction Description of the Problem: While driving at highway speeds (approximately 75 mph), the vehicle experiences a wiggling or unstable sensation in the suspension, making the car feel unsafe. At the same time, the steering wheel becomes stiff and difficult to turn. Additionally, a warning message appears stating “Service Shifter.” ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 20, 2025
I hear a loud clicking sound when I turn the steering wheel at low speeds. The sounds has gotten loud over time. I fear that the steering might not work when I need it the most, i.e when making a quick turn from stop. I have reported this to Great Lakes Honda west dealership in Elyria, Ohio and have an appointment with them today.
Incident date: Nov 20, 2025
I went a few months ago to Toyota to get an air flow valve replaced from a safety campaign for Toyota. My car engine light came on. Afterwards it never went off. My car shuts off after getting gas . Car doesn’t start for 20 mins. Coolant is leaking . Car idling high as if the valve that was replaced was faulty. The car acts like it’s gonna shut off. I take good care of my car & several people ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 22, 2025
The horn is a little button on the steering wheel. Tesla has since switched to a center horn. I assume this is due to safety concern that accessing the horn during a panicked situation is difficult. I have almost been in a few accidents as it is impossible to find the horn while evading a potential accident. Tesla will not modify my vehicle as a safety related issue and instead wants to charg... Read more
Incident date: Dec 26, 2025
The vehicle has a safety-related defect involving the safety restraint system. A warning message/light appears indicating a malfunction affecting occupant protection. This defect raises concerns regarding proper airbag and restraint operation in the event of a crash. I presented the vehicle for warranty service, but the manufacturer refused to diagnose or repair the safety defect solely because t... Read more
Incident date: Dec 26, 2025
The vehicle has a safety-related defect involving the safety restraint system. A warning message/light appears indicating a malfunction affecting occupant protection. This defect raises concerns regarding proper airbag and restraint operation in the event of a crash. I presented the vehicle for warranty service, but the manufacturer refused to diagnose or repair the safety defect solely because t... Read more
Incident date: Dec 21, 2025
The component that failed is the Under Engine Cross Member. This is available for inspection. My safety was put at risk due to the Cross Member being bent so much that is didn't screw back in correctly, thus could have caused the engine to have fallen out of the car or worse. The problem was reproduced at Hendrick Lexus Kansas City. This concern was confirmed by the Technician along with a video... Read more
HYUNDAI
TUCSON HYBRID
(2022) - SUSPENSION
Dec 26, 2025
Incident date: Aug 22, 2025
Transmission cable and roll away not right gear
HYUNDAI
TUCSON HYBRID
(2022) - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Dec 26, 2025
Incident date: Aug 22, 2025
Transmission cable and roll away not right gear
HYUNDAI
TUCSON HYBRID
(2022) - STRUCTURE:BODY
Dec 26, 2025
Incident date: Aug 22, 2025
Transmission cable and roll away not right gear
Incident date: Dec 19, 2025
Vehicle won’t start brake hold system problem, vehicle stability assist system problem, hill start assist problem, electric power steering problem collision mitigation system problem all appear on the dash but vehicle won’t start. Battery is not the issue, tested the battery it’s at 12.5V. Hard reset the battery and jumpstarted but issue persist. Taking vehicle to dealer to diagnose issue bu... Read more
HYUNDAI
IONIQ HYBRID
(2022) - STRUCTURE:BODY
Dec 26, 2025
Incident date: Dec 24, 2025
My check engine light went on and stayed on while I was driving. I called Blaise Alexander, Altoona, Pa. reported and scheduled a checkup on Dec. 11. I drove to the garage, arriving at 10am. and noticed a smell of fire and saw smoke billowing out around the hood of the car. I ran into service area and told them the car must be on fire. They called the Altoona Fire Dept. The police gave me a numb... Read more
Fire