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: Dec 8, 2025
The engine in my 2010 Subaru Forester (VIN: [XXX] ) suffered a sudden and complete mechanical failure on November 15, 2025. While driving, the vehicle abruptly lost power without any warning lights or messages. I was able to pull off the roadway, but the loss of power posed a significant safety risk. Had this occurred in traffic or at highway speeds, it could have caused a collision. The vehicle ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 8, 2025
AWD lock engaged but not functioning and no error lights indicating the such. This made the vehicle slip aggressively on lightly snowed roads. Once parked it needed to be winched out as only the front wheels spun, not engaging the rear tires.
Incident date: Dec 8, 2025
AWD lock engaged but not functioning and no error lights indicating the such. This made the vehicle slip aggressively on lightly snowed roads. Once parked it needed to be winched out as only the front wheels spun, not engaging the rear tires.
Incident date: Nov 28, 2025
Driving a loud bang was heard from the back of the car. Stopped to check, no obvious physical issue. A warning light came on, it was described as an issue with the air flap. Started driving again, it worked for a few 1000 feet. The car went into a limp mode while an arterial road, in the dark, slowing to not more than 20 mph on a 45 mph road putting driver and child passenger as well as other vehi... Read more
Incident date: Nov 9, 2025
Shortly after purchasing the vehicle, the airbag warning light illuminated. I took the vehicle to a Nissan dealership in Texas for diagnosis. The technician confirmed that the airbag fault was present before the vehicle was sold to me. According to the diagnostic records, the selling dealer (Kelly Nissan in Oak Lawn, Illinois) had previously scanned the airbag system, identified an airbag fault co... Read more
Incident date: Nov 9, 2025
Shortly after purchasing the vehicle, the airbag warning light illuminated. I took the vehicle to a Nissan dealership in Texas for diagnosis. The technician confirmed that the airbag fault was present before the vehicle was sold to me. According to the diagnostic records, the selling dealer (Kelly Nissan in Oak Lawn, Illinois) had previously scanned the airbag system, identified an airbag fault co... Read more
Incident date: Dec 8, 2025
The electric power steering system on my vehicle intermittently fails while I am driving. When the failure occurs, the steering suddenly becomes extremely heavy and difficult to control, creating an immediate safety risk to me and to others on the road. The loss of power steering has happened multiple times with no advance warning. Each time, the only way to temporarily restore normal steering is ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 3, 2025
I have reported this to American Honda - My driver car lock has been not working properly since 2024. It will intermittently not work to unlock the driver's door. Also, it will intermittently not lock my car automatically when I leave the vehicle with the key fob. The first time I took the vehicle in - they replaced the front door power latch. Since then, I took it in on May 2025 - they said since... Read more
Incident date: Dec 3, 2025
I have reported this to American Honda - My driver car lock has been not working properly since 2024. It will intermittently not work to unlock the driver's door. Also, it will intermittently not lock my car automatically when I leave the vehicle with the key fob. The first time I took the vehicle in - they replaced the front door power latch. Since then, I took it in on May 2025 - they said since... Read more
Incident date: Dec 3, 2025
I am leasing this vehicle for 3 more years. This vehicle has been nothing but trouble since day 1. Last winter it stopped running on the interstate during a blizzard and I had to coast in traffic to the side of the highway. They have come out with more recalls stating the batteries can catch on fire and the engine can catch on fire with no remedy to fix them. I can't plug it in, even though it... Read more
Incident date: Sep 21, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, there was an abnormal odor coming from the vehicle. Upon inspecting the vehicle, the contact became aware of coolant leaking from the front of the vehicle near the transmission, with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact retrieved DTC: P0016. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 28, 2025
I had just left my job in Albany and was headed to the Latham area, while merging into traffic on I-90 West my 2020 Honda Accord EX-L started to rattle and slow down, numerous lights illuminated simultaneously on my dashboard. I immediately pulled off the north shoulder and restarted my vehicle to no avail, the dashboard lights were still lit and my vehicles speed and steering were compromised. M... Read more
Incident date: Nov 28, 2025
The tailgate on my 2016 Dodge Ram will not stay locked and falls open during cold weather. I've contacted the dealer but they said this particular vin is not included in a recall. I've accessed the inside panel on the tailgate several times to clean and lubricate, but it only works for a short time. It's been a continuous problem for the last 5 to 6 years...only when it is cold.
Incident date: Nov 28, 2025
The contact owned a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while the contact's husband was driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact's vehicle was involved in a crash. The contact stated that a nearby vehicle drove in front of the contact's vehicle and then suddenly applied the brakes. In addition, the contact vehicle rear-ended another vehicle. The contact stated that the rear passeng... Read more
Crash
2 injured
Incident date: Nov 18, 2025
While driving my 2016 Hyundai Veloster (VIN: [XXX] ) on the highway, the vehicle suddenly lost acceleration. I went from 60 mph down to 20 mph with no throttle response, and the car only continued moving briefly from momentum. I was forced to stop in unsafe highway conditions and had the vehicle towed home. Prior to this complete failure, the car had recurring transmission/drive issues: it would s... Read more
Incident date: Nov 18, 2025
While driving my 2016 Hyundai Veloster (VIN: [XXX] ) on the highway, the vehicle suddenly lost acceleration. I went from 60 mph down to 20 mph with no throttle response, and the car only continued moving briefly from momentum. I was forced to stop in unsafe highway conditions and had the vehicle towed home. Prior to this complete failure, the car had recurring transmission/drive issues: it would s... Read more
Incident date: Nov 18, 2025
While driving my 2016 Hyundai Veloster (VIN: [XXX] ) on the highway, the vehicle suddenly lost acceleration. I went from 60 mph down to 20 mph with no throttle response, and the car only continued moving briefly from momentum. I was forced to stop in unsafe highway conditions and had the vehicle towed home. Prior to this complete failure, the car had recurring transmission/drive issues: it would s... Read more
Incident date: Oct 1, 2025
For the past year I keep having to replace the catalytic converter, ignition coils and spark plugs every 2/3months. I just replaced the catalytic converter in October with a tune up. A month later had to replace spark plugs.
Incident date: Oct 1, 2025
For the past year I keep having to replace the catalytic converter, ignition coils and spark plugs every 2/3months. I just replaced the catalytic converter in October with a tune up. A month later had to replace spark plugs.
Incident date: Sep 24, 2025
WE ARE SCARED TO DRIVE OUR VEHICLE AND WE HAVE GRANDKIDS WHO RIDE WITH US . I WOULD LIKE THE DEALERSHIP TO ALLOW US TO TRADE THIS IN WITHOUT ANY HASSLE. URGENT: FIRE RISK WHEN PARKED An urgent safety recall has been issued for this vehicle and the manufacturer has recommended that you follow their instructions on how and where to park this vehicle. More information is available under NHTSA Reca... Read more
Incident date: Dec 9, 2025
2003 Saturn Vue ignition switch. The switch was replaced under a recall with a switch that has the same defect; the key can be removed while the vehicle is in operation. The dealers refuse to replace it saying the car had the recall completed. They do not acknowledge the replacement has the same problem as the original. I feel they are required to do a second replacement under the recall ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 24, 2025
Unknown needing help with new purchased car. Bought this car October/2025 with 93k on engine. Already been to dealership i Bought it from to have current issues im dealing with checked out and they only listen to it and said it was injector ticking clatter. Since then ive seen white smoke and the car burning excessive oil. I am adding oil to the car every 2-3 days. Still noticeable smoke and sme... Read more
Incident date: Nov 24, 2025
Unknown needing help with new purchased car. Bought this car October/2025 with 93k on engine. Already been to dealership i Bought it from to have current issues im dealing with checked out and they only listen to it and said it was injector ticking clatter. Since then ive seen white smoke and the car burning excessive oil. I am adding oil to the car every 2-3 days. Still noticeable smoke and sme... Read more
Incident date: Dec 3, 2025
On 6 occasions in varying driving conditions “Service AEB System Immediately” message and warning lights has appeared on instrument cluster. When this occurs all safety features are also disengaged. Furthermore, on a different occasion the vehicle was parked for 4 hours and after starting the vehicle I received a “Power Steering Overheat” message and warning light on the instrument cluster... Read more
Incident date: Dec 8, 2025
On 6 occasions in varying driving conditions “Service AEB System Immediately” message and warning lights has appeared on instrument cluster. When this occurs all safety features are also disengaged. Furthermore, on a different occasion the vehicle was parked for 4 hours and after starting the vehicle I received a “Power Steering Overheat” message and warning light on the instrument cluster... Read more
Incident date: Dec 8, 2025
On 6 occasions in varying driving conditions “Service AEB System Immediately” message and warning lights has appeared on instrument cluster. When this occurs all safety features are also disengaged. Furthermore, on a different occasion the vehicle was parked for 4 hours and after starting the vehicle I received a “Power Steering Overheat” message and warning light on the instrument cluster... Read more
Incident date: Dec 8, 2025
On a clear road a sencor comes on detect comes on says detection collision. The breaks come on when you are traveling on interstate or two lane roads. When you are traveling 75 mph and breaks come on all of a sudden on the highway. We are lucky we never got hit in the back of the car going that fast. We will stop 75 to 35 mph in 10 seconds.
Incident date: Nov 6, 2025
First recall back in October the car would shut off while driving at any speed and the wheel would stop working. Now a new recalll the car would catch on fire parked / or driven because if the battery. I don’t wanna drive it I want a refund
Incident date: Jul 12, 2025
Suddenly at 82,000 miles, my 2020 Jeep Wrangler Sport S 4 door began shaking uncontrollably while I was driving. It was a terrifying experience. I took it to the mechanic and he replaced the steering damper. The uncontrollable shaking continued. The mechanic replaced the steering damper again. The shaking continues. I have had a wheel alignment and tires balanced. I am scared to drive the ... Read more
Incident date: Jul 12, 2025
Suddenly at 82,000 miles, my 2020 Jeep Wrangler Sport S 4 door began shaking uncontrollably while I was driving. It was a terrifying experience. I took it to the mechanic and he replaced the steering damper. The uncontrollable shaking continued. The mechanic replaced the steering damper again. The shaking continues. I have had a wheel alignment and tires balanced. I am scared to drive the ... Read more
Incident date: Jul 12, 2025
Suddenly at 82,000 miles, my 2020 Jeep Wrangler Sport S 4 door began shaking uncontrollably while I was driving. It was a terrifying experience. I took it to the mechanic and he replaced the steering damper. The uncontrollable shaking continued. The mechanic replaced the steering damper again. The shaking continues. I have had a wheel alignment and tires balanced. I am scared to drive the ... Read more
Incident date: Oct 23, 2024
Vehicle purchased 9/1/24 from Courtesy Hyundai of Tampa. Dealership failed to file registration/tags until 10/4/24. 7/12/25: Vehicle experienced involuntary acceleration and braking, resulting in impact with my mother’s home. 7/16/25: Dealer issued written report stating vehicle was operating normally and documented a recall-related display/audio/camera software update. 8/14/25: Hyundai enginee... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Dec 5, 2025
Hv harness failed (confirmed by dealer/manufacturer) without known reason and without warning, leaving stranded, unable to move vehicle.
Incident date: Dec 5, 2025
Hv harness failed (confirmed by dealer/manufacturer) without known reason and without warning, leaving stranded, unable to move vehicle.
Incident date: Oct 8, 2025
It seems like the computer has defaulted to receive the lowest possible gas mileage- if this is somehow communicating with the fuel system- its definitely affecting how much mileage I could be getting and robbing me of up to 100 miles per tank.
Incident date: Dec 7, 2025
While driving my 2019 Jeep Cherokee, the engine randomly shuts off without warning. This has happened multiple times at different speeds. The vehicle suddenly loses all power, and I have to coast to the side of the road. There are no warning lights, messages, or diagnostic codes before or after the stall. The specific component causing the failure is unknown, but it seems related to the electrical... Read more
Incident date: Sep 6, 2024
The main water pump on my 2018 Porsche Panamera 4S failed prematurely. This is not a simple external coolant leak; the internal seal failed, allowing pressurized engine coolant to migrate into the vehicle's vacuum system. The coolant traveled through the vacuum lines and contaminated the vacuum solenoids and change-over valves. This failure mode presents a significant safety hazard because the va... Read more
Incident date: Mar 1, 2025
Description of Problem: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER COMPLETE FAILURE My 2016 Tesla Model X instrument cluster has completely failed and permanently displays "CAR OFF" regardless of the actual vehicle status, including while actively driving at highway speeds. Critical Information I CANNOT See While Driving: Gear position (P, D, R, N) - I have no visual confirmation of what gear the vehicle is in Vehicle s... Read more
Incident date: Jul 15, 2025
Purchased new and after 3 weeks (about 600 miles) I was on highway between 60-70 MPH truck started to shutter like it was losing power and would not accelerate. I complained to the sales person and he stated it ran a little rough when purchased first day - I was told it just needs to warm up. Took truck to dealer and they determined at this time it was a misfire and lifter bank issue. There ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 28, 2025
Vehicle experiences a failure to the Lane Departure Warning and Intellibeam headlamps functions, primarily at night. Trouble first began on 3/12/2023 and has been to two GM dealerships for 11 repairs and the problem is still unresolved. GM Executive Escalations have been opened and the problem is still unresolved. Their response is that 18 vehicles experienced this problem and the resolution was t... Read more
Incident date: Nov 28, 2025
The electrical component on the dash that shows the gas gauge does not work during cold weather or rain mostly. I have looked this up online and many people have the same complaint.
Incident date: Nov 8, 2025
On 12/5/2025, while driving my 2025 BMW X3 at approximately 35 mph on Milwaukee Ave (IL Route 21) during rush-hour traffic, the vehicle displayed a “drivetrain malfunction” warning and immediately lost propulsion; the engine completely shut down. The vehicle could not be driven under its own power and remained stopped in traffic with a minor child passenger present, creating a traffic hazard a... Read more
Incident date: Dec 6, 2025
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V838000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake lights remain... Read more
Incident date: Sep 20, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 BMW M4. The contact stated that under previous ownership, the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign: 15V782000 (Power Train) at a local dealer. The contact stated that two years later, the contact was unsure if the vehicle was included or repaired under NHTSA Campaign: 18V713000 (Power Train). The contact stated that while driving at 45 MPH, the vehicle shudd... Read more
Incident date: Sep 20, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the A-pillar trims on the driver’s and passenger’s side rattled while driving. The contact attempted to repair the A-pillar; however, the front driver's side A-pillar trim detached from the vehicle while driving. The contact then received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure)... Read more
Incident date: Dec 6, 2025
CV axel clicking when turning. Most noticeable when outdoor temperature is cold. Also when applying right turn signal and making the turn. After making the turn when the switch goes back to neutral it will bump on the left turn signal and it will signal 3 times causing confusion to other drivers.
Incident date: Nov 13, 2025
In August 2025, my 2017 Audi A3 (VIN [XXX] ) experienced repeated stalling, strong gasoline odors inside the cabin, and a check engine light immediately after Audi completed recall-related service. The safety issue was later confirmed by the dealership to be caused by a failed suction jet pump (NHTSA Recall 24V110), which allowed fuel to enter the EVAP system and leak into the rear seat area and c... Read more
1 injured
Incident date: Nov 13, 2025
Locks no longer work with key fob or button within car and sometimes even takes multiple attempts to manually unlock. This poses a danger if needed to enter or exit the car in a hurry.
Incident date: Dec 7, 2025
About 3 times already the vehicle have stalled after been stop at a traffic light. When I lift my foot from the brake pedal and hit the gas the vehicle does not move. I had to hit the brakes and put it in park and then drive again for it to go. The last time yesterday I was on a hill and the vehicle went back when I tried to hit the gas. I took it to the dealer on Nov 19, and they kept it for four... Read more