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: Apr 3, 2026
The contact owns a 2014 Nissan Murano. The contact stated that multiple issues were experienced with the vehicle while driving, including the following: the transmission has odd noises, is not changing gears properly, and emits a burning smell; the vehicle randomly overheats; the brake fluid bubbles when the vehicle is turned on; the AC compressor has failed three times; and the serpentine belt an... Read more
Incident date: Apr 3, 2026
I am submitting a safety complaint regarding my Ford vehicle’s infotainment screen failure, which has been identified under a recall but currently has no available remedy or repair timeline. When the screen goes blank or becomes unresponsive, I lose access to critical safety features, including the rearview camera, which is federally required. This significantly increases the risk of accidents ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 15, 2026
Transmission. My 2021 Toyota Highlander with approximately 94,500 miles developed a consistent whining noise during acceleration. The issue occurs daily during normal driving and appears to be worsening. A Toyota dealership diagnosed the problem and confirmed the noise is coming from the transmission and that the transmission requires replacement. This appears to be a premature failure of a ma... Read more
HYUNDAI
SONATA
(2013) - EQUIPMENT:RECREATIONAL VEHICLE/TRAILER:LPG SYSTEMS:LINES AND FITTINGS
May 4, 2026
Incident date: May 1, 2026
The contact owns a 2023 Grand Design 5th Wheel. The contact stated that the propane gas pigtail was on the floor and created an electrical spark and popping noise that traveled up to other cords. The contact stated that the pigtail cord was improperly fitted and should not have been on the floor. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified. The failure mileage was ... Read more
Incident date: May 2, 2026
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Sierra LD Crew. The contact stated that while driving on the highway at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle's bedrail attachment fully detached from the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unavailable.
Incident date: May 2, 2026
My switch on drivers door started on fire right after I purchased vehicle from third party. There was no warning I just smelled smoke while driving and pulled it out
Fire
Incident date: May 2, 2026
The electrical/infotainment display failure causes the factory rearview camera image not to display when the vehicle is shifted into reverse. The center infotainment display on my 2022 Volvo XC90 intermittently goes completely black and remains inoperable for days at a time. When the screen is black, the factory rearview camera image does not display when the vehicle is shifted into reverse. All ... Read more
Incident date: May 4, 2026
The car started jerking and overheating. Mechanic says blown head gasket. The car is only 64000 miles.
Incident date: May 4, 2026
The car started jerking and overheating. Mechanic says blown head gasket. The car is only 64000 miles.
Incident date: May 1, 2026
The contact owns a . The contact stated that upon restarted the vehcile experienced harsh restarts and lurch forward. The contact indicated that the failure and become more frequent. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer was unable to duplicate the failure and no service was performed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure.. The failure mileage was 33,400.
Incident date: May 1, 2026
The contact owns a . The contact stated that upon restarted the vehcile experienced harsh restarts and lurch forward. The contact indicated that the failure and become more frequent. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer was unable to duplicate the failure and no service was performed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure.. The failure mileage was 33,400.
Incident date: Apr 20, 2026
While driving, the vehicle in front of me stopped suddenly. When I pressed on the brake pedal it felt stuck and did not respond properly. The forward collision automatic braking system did not activate. This resulted in a crash. After the incident, the vehicle had fluid leaks and severe front-end damage and is not drivable. I am concerned there was brake system failure prior to impact.
Crash
5 injured
Incident date: Apr 20, 2026
While driving, the vehicle in front of me stopped suddenly. When I pressed on the brake pedal it felt stuck and did not respond properly. The forward collision automatic braking system did not activate. This resulted in a crash. After the incident, the vehicle had fluid leaks and severe front-end damage and is not drivable. I am concerned there was brake system failure prior to impact.
Crash
5 injured
Incident date: Apr 20, 2026
Rear view mirror came away from windshield when adjusting. Resulted in damaged windshield that needed to be replaced. Shards of glass in the vehicle. Replacement cost from Safelite around $1000 (It seems that the glass wasn't correctly laminated, meaning the top later peeled away easily with the mirror mount
Incident date: May 4, 2026
In May 2025 the vehicle randomly, and without warning, the instruments, gauges, and displays switched to Italian, changed to Metric, and we got the update and FCW Off light stuck on. Numerous other settings had been reset. Took to dealer and had to pay for the fix - they noted a STAR bulletin on my invoice. Then this past weekend (May 2, 2026) it happened again. At least this time it didn't go Ita... Read more
Incident date: May 4, 2026
In May 2025 the vehicle randomly, and without warning, the instruments, gauges, and displays switched to Italian, changed to Metric, and we got the update and FCW Off light stuck on. Numerous other settings had been reset. Took to dealer and had to pay for the fix - they noted a STAR bulletin on my invoice. Then this past weekend (May 2, 2026) it happened again. At least this time it didn't go Ita... Read more
Incident date: May 4, 2026
I purchased my vehicle through Carvana. My engine light is on. I received a notification that there’s a manufacturer recall on my vehicle which is Code CDJR XD1 Crankshaft position sensor - however it’s not listed on your website.
Incident date: May 3, 2026
The second row seat is moving or reclining while I’m driving. The car seat motor has a sound while it reclines.
Incident date: Apr 29, 2026
On March 14 2026 i was driving from [XXX] . To [XXX] to have my tires checked because i felt a strong vibration on my steering column and truck itself, it was getting worse so i took it to my mechanic who does my regular maintenance on truck. After inspecting tire ( [XXX] 55 R20) was called over and shown that my front passenger side tire had a flat spot, it looked deformed mechanic informed me ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 29, 2026
On March 14 2026 i was driving from [XXX] . To [XXX] to have my tires checked because i felt a strong vibration on my steering column and truck itself, it was getting worse so i took it to my mechanic who does my regular maintenance on truck. After inspecting tire ( [XXX] 55 R20) was called over and shown that my front passenger side tire had a flat spot, it looked deformed mechanic informed me ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 29, 2026
The clock spring system failed, rendering all of the cars' steering wheel functions non-functional. The airbag light is on and the steering wheels airbag does not operate as well as the cars horn and auto cruise controls. The instrument cluster is malfunctioning as well. The safety risks associated with the malfunctions could result in great harm to the driver and passengers in the vehicle.
Incident date: Jan 1, 2026
Dear Hyundai Customer Care, I am writing to report a safety concern with my 2016 Hyundai Sonata. The dashboard has developed significant cracking near the passenger-side airbag, which raises concerns about proper airbag deployment in the event of an accident. This level of deterioration seems premature and not consistent with normal wear and tear. I would like to know if there are any recalls, s... Read more
Incident date: May 2, 2026
I was driving and the vehicle was operating as expected in normal conditions when I heard a loud pop sound, followed by an alert on my car infotainment to pull over and inspect the 12v battery. "12 volt battery low. Stop safely" I turned the car around to drive back home. The car wouldn't go any faster than 40mph. Once parking the car back home, the car would not turn on anymore. This is congruent... Read more
Incident date: Jan 3, 2026
I took my car in for the EVM engine update. Since then whenever it starts it is jumpy. The rpm rev more than they should. It’s very concerning that it will rev and won’t stop and I could possibly hit someone. I took it back to the dealer and they called the timeline and they told them to do another update. They did and it is still like that. Was never like that before. I have connected with s... Read more
Incident date: May 2, 2026
Driving down the highway. Vehicle random alerts that there is a transmission error.
Incident date: May 2, 2026
Driving down the highway. Vehicle random alerts that there is a transmission error.
Incident date: Mar 21, 2026
Integrated Charging Control Unit failure. Common issue apparently and I've been waiting over a month for a repair. No loaner offered. Could not guarantee that it won't happen again as it's a "common issue. "
Incident date: Apr 21, 2026
ICCU / 12‑V failure & repair – 2025 Ioniq 5 (Illinois) Bought my 2025 Ioniq 5 new in Feb 2025. On 4/21/26, at about 8,653 miles, I suddenly got a red battery icon and “Stop vehicle and check power supply” while driving. I pulled over, limped it home, and it wouldn’t reliably go into READY. Bluelink showed DTC P1A9096 (Electric Vehicle / “Air Flap”), so I had it flat‑bedded to Hap... Read more
Incident date: Apr 30, 2026
A repeated clicking sound in the door locks which is probably pointing toward a failing door lock actuator when I unlock the car or when I open any door or trunk. Then I get a "Child Safety Lock Failure" message on my dash.
Incident date: May 2, 2026
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid does not have an option to turn off the beeping notification “Consider Taking a Break”. It is consistent and alarming when it does go off. It is very distracting and therefore dangerous as it goes off abruptly multiple times a day while I am driving. It is available for inspection and the dealership has attempted to find a solution but unable to. There is no warn... Read more
Incident date: Apr 26, 2026
4/26: I was in the turn lane and SLOWLY approaching the vehicle in front of me. I was at least 12 feet back when the emergency brake engaged causing me to fling forward in my seat. However, I did have my seatbelt on a was not physically harmed, but mentally rattled. This also caused the car behind me to almost rear me. 5/1: I was in the parking lot of a local store. A pedestrian was passing at a... Read more
Incident date: Apr 26, 2026
4/26: I was in the turn lane and SLOWLY approaching the vehicle in front of me. I was at least 12 feet back when the emergency brake engaged causing me to fling forward in my seat. However, I did have my seatbelt on a was not physically harmed, but mentally rattled. This also caused the car behind me to almost rear me. 5/1: I was in the parking lot of a local store. A pedestrian was passing at a... Read more
Incident date: Feb 16, 2026
The engine in this 2016 Hyundai Tucson has experienced progressive failure symptoms consistent with the known rod bearing defect covered under Hyundai's engine warranty extension campaign. Symptoms include: excessive oil consumption requiring frequent top-offs over several months, severely degraded acceleration, failure to upshift under load, and an audible metallic crunching noise occurring aroun... Read more
Incident date: Mar 5, 2026
Hyundai's recent emissions software update (9C9) has disabled engine braking, creating a risk of brake fade on grades. The vehicle is no longer able to hold speed while descending grades, regardless of downshifting, forcing the brakes to be implemented to avoid excessive speed. This was never an issue prior to the software update and happened immediately after the software was installed. Instea... Read more
Incident date: Mar 5, 2026
Hyundai's recent emissions software update (9C9) has disabled engine braking, creating a risk of brake fade on grades. The vehicle is no longer able to hold speed while descending grades, regardless of downshifting, forcing the brakes to be implemented to avoid excessive speed. This was never an issue prior to the software update and happened immediately after the software was installed. Instea... Read more
Incident date: Mar 5, 2026
Hyundai's recent emissions software update (9C9) has disabled engine braking, creating a risk of brake fade on grades. The vehicle is no longer able to hold speed while descending grades, regardless of downshifting, forcing the brakes to be implemented to avoid excessive speed. This was never an issue prior to the software update and happened immediately after the software was installed. Instea... Read more
Incident date: Mar 18, 2026
My vehicle had oil consumption problems that were fixed with a new replacement engine now my catalytic converter is going bad due to engine oil consumption problems and the dealer I deal with is refusing to help with this issue. There is only around 50k miles on the new engine. I would greatly appreciate your help with this Thank you!
Incident date: Mar 18, 2026
My vehicle had oil consumption problems that were fixed with a new replacement engine now my catalytic converter is going bad due to engine oil consumption problems and the dealer I deal with is refusing to help with this issue. There is only around 50k miles on the new engine. I would greatly appreciate your help with this Thank you!
Incident date: Apr 2, 2026
I am writing to file a formal vehicle safety complaint regarding recurring, dangerous, and complete electrical system failures in my Hyundai Palisade. These failures have rendered the vehicle undriveable on multiple occasions, created a direct safety hazard for my family — including a young child — and have caused significant financial harm. The manufacturer's and dealership's failure to provi... Read more
Incident date: Apr 2, 2026
I am writing to file a formal vehicle safety complaint regarding recurring, dangerous, and complete electrical system failures in my Hyundai Palisade. These failures have rendered the vehicle undriveable on multiple occasions, created a direct safety hazard for my family — including a young child — and have caused significant financial harm. The manufacturer's and dealership's failure to provi... Read more
Incident date: May 2, 2026
I was driving my vehicle on multiple occasions in which the car started to alarm and say, "Check charging system" at which point the car stopped all together. Also, when the cruise control is engaged, it will turn off automatically. It doesn't matter the speed the cruise control is set at, it will turn off.
Incident date: Apr 30, 2026
I went to start the car and it was totally dead. It is used 7 days a week and driven back and forth to work 5 days a week. There was no warning and nothing was left on, just dead. I took the car to the dealer yesterday and they did an electrial system analysis and only found the battery had a slight discharge. Which is frustrating because I don't know when or where this could happen again. The d... Read more
Incident date: Apr 13, 2026
On April 13, 2026, I arrived home and parked the vehicle, engaging the traditional shifter into the "Park" position and turning off the engine. After exiting and standing on the ground to retrieve a purse from the cabin, the vehicle spontaneously and rapidly began reversing. As the vehicle gained momentum, I was struck by the driver-side door, which knocked me down and resulted in the vehicle ... Read more
Crash
1 injured
Incident date: Apr 13, 2026
On April 13, 2026, I arrived home and parked the vehicle, engaging the traditional shifter into the "Park" position and turning off the engine. After exiting and standing on the ground to retrieve a purse from the cabin, the vehicle spontaneously and rapidly began reversing. As the vehicle gained momentum, I was struck by the driver-side door, which knocked me down and resulted in the vehicle ... Read more
Crash
1 injured
Incident date: Dec 23, 2025
I brought this car 2022 Hyundai Sonata with 41k miles on it and only had it for 6 months. It has cut off 3x so far after putting gas in the tank. Always the same thing, oh nothing is wrong. Obviously there is and I see there is a recall on this car however my VIN isn’t coming up as a recall. This has to be fixed.
Incident date: May 1, 2026
p1326, rod bearing failure and seizure of motor without warning.
Incident date: May 1, 2026
p1326, rod bearing failure and seizure of motor without warning.
Incident date: Apr 22, 2026
I was driving on the highway in heavy traffic which was moving relatively slowly (15-30mph). I had plenty of room in front of me and was in the process of braking when the vehicle suddenly applied the breaks automatically, coming to a very abrupt stop. It threw me forward and almost caused an accident. Luckily the truck behind me was leaving enough room as well and was able to swerve out of the w... Read more
Incident date: Sep 15, 2025
The battery is charged but will not start. It says pull over safely before it goes completely dead.i can jump the battery but it does not continue after being turned off. Slow and hard turning.