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 62,191 complaints for KIA
Incident date: Aug 6, 2025
This vehicle suffered a complete engine failure that has been directly linked to the defective engine oil pump, which is the subject of multiple Ford recalls and NHTSA campaign references for EcoSport and Focus models (2016–2022). Despite this known defect, Ford has refused to cover the repair or offer relief, leaving the consumer with a non-functioning vehicle and a significant outstanding loan... Read more
Incident date: Aug 26, 2025
No check engine light come on until continued driving over 15-20 miles. Transmission slams into second gear when taking off or when stopping it may or may not downshift into first causing safety issues when in traffic. Possible electrical error or clutch inside transmission. On this model it is a sealed transmission so no way of identifying if metal shavings come out with a transmission flush. The... Read more
Incident date: Aug 27, 2020
The contact owns a 2022 GMC Sierra 3500. The contact stated that while driving at 30 MPH, the message “Trailer Brake Disconnected" was displayed on the instrument panel. The contact was hauling a 5th-wheel trailer during the failure. The contact pulled over to the side of the road, turned off the vehicle, and waited for several minutes before restarting the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the ... Read more
Incident date: Aug 27, 2020
The contact, who owns a 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 3500, reported an incident that occurred while driving at approximately 35 MPH. A semi-truck, backing out of a warehouse across three lanes, collided with the driver's side of the contact's vehicle, causing damage to the entire left side. Despite the impact, no airbags were deployed. The collision exacerbated the contact's existing lower back and sp... Read more
Crash
1 injured
Incident date: Aug 26, 2025
A critical component failure has rendered my 2016 BMW 528xi inoperable and unsafe. The water pump failed, forcing the car into a safety "limp mode," limiting its speed to approximately 40 miles per hour. This issue mirrors NHTSA Recall 24V-608 regarding an electrical connector on the water pump that can short circuit, potentially causing a "thermal event or fire." The problem began with dashboard... Read more
Incident date: Aug 26, 2025
The drivers seat belt retractor has failed. The car is a low mile 2020 Ford Edge. I see that Ford has a recall on the 2021 for the same problem. I replaced the very expensive part that should have not failed this early. Anything i can do?
Incident date: Aug 26, 2025
Idle stop causing engine to shut down. This has happened three times! It’s very dangerous.
Incident date: Aug 1, 2025
Fuel pump went bad causing the pump to overdraw electricity on the electrical circuit which melted the fuse in the fuse box. The fuse and fuse position was melted beyond being able to use this again. It could have caused a fire in the engine compartment if the circumstances were different. My mechanic reported that he's seen some of these melt the whole fuse box, creating major damage and a majo... Read more
Incident date: Aug 20, 2025
The vehicle calls power module has failed
Incident date: May 26, 2025
Since purchasing the vehicle there was a leak under the driver's side console after heavy rains. After multiple trips to the dealer they directed us to replace the windshield. We did so (under protest). The leak still existed. The dealership determined that there was a gap at the A pillar. We worry that this is related to the Sturcture recall about missing welds. Honda will not admit to any issu... Read more
Incident date: May 26, 2025
Since purchasing the vehicle there was a leak under the driver's side console after heavy rains. After multiple trips to the dealer they directed us to replace the windshield. We did so (under protest). The leak still existed. The dealership determined that there was a gap at the A pillar. We worry that this is related to the Sturcture recall about missing welds. Honda will not admit to any issu... Read more
Incident date: May 1, 2025
pistons replaced at 40000 miles due to technical service bulletin , now Active engine management lifters failed causing complete engine replacement , due to wiped cam and lifters and metal contamination. [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Incident date: May 1, 2025
Several months ago, the automatic front collision activated on the freeway doing about 65mph. There was nothing in front of us, but there was a car behind us that almost rear ended us. I thought this was a one-off thing but reading this site I am not the only one. Also, with in the last 2 weeks the Eye Site has turned off. This I see is also a known problem.
Incident date: Apr 25, 2025
SRS warning light and was told that is is due to a faulty misassembled wiring in the seat harness. Possibility of the airbags not deploying correctly in case of a crash. The dealer has confirmed that it is the seat harness that needs to be replaced. Due to the Month/Year of the vehicle it does not fall under the original recall which was only for vehicles that were manufactured between Jan/May 201... Read more
Incident date: Apr 25, 2025
The contact owns a 2014 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH and exiting a highway, the contact heard a chime and became aware of the "Service Power Steering" warning light. The contact stated that the steering wheel became difficult to turn. The contact used additional force on the steering wheel to turn the steering wheel to the right and jerked the steering wheel... Read more
Incident date: Apr 25, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the transmission independently upshifted and then shifted into neutral. The contact stated that the transmission temperature gauge became elevated, and the vehicle shuddered while accelerating. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic, where it was diagno... Read more
Incident date: May 26, 2025
Ive got this vehicle on 5/12/2025 and all of this need to be done CATALYTIC CONVERTER REPLACEMENT. DURING INSPECTION FOUND LOUD EXHAUST ON STARTUP. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION FOUND BANK 1 CATALYTIC CONVERTER CRACKED CAUSING EXHAUST LEAK. BOTH EXHAUST FRONT PIPES DAMAGED AS WELL(BROKEN MOUNTING BRACKETS BETWEEN BOTH PIPES) . RECOMMEND REPLACEMENT OF CATALYTIC CONVERTER AND BOTH EXHAUST FRONT PIPESBRA... Read more
Incident date: Jun 19, 2025
Tire size 235/40R19 Vehicle hydroplanes in light rain on all roads even at low speeds on AWD vehicle. Several instances where the vehicle hydroplanes and has steered the car into oncoming traffic or off the road. Tires have been inspected by Toyota and Discount Tire. Both state tires pass inspection. Bridgestone was contacted and states nothing can be done. Upon searching that specific tire, revie... Read more
Incident date: Aug 25, 2025
Vehicle is new and delivered on 08/27/21. Complaint: The front axle nuts on vehicle loosen over time. The first incident was reported to I-10 Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram on 09/29/23 (see Invoice), with 24,832 miles as a noise coming from the front left suspension. This dealer replaced both front hubs at that time which resolved the noise. The second incident was reported to Chrystal Chrysler Jeep ... Read more
Incident date: Aug 25, 2025
Steering Sensor leading to ABS malfunctioning. Including Instrument dash lights ...Parking Break, Anti Skid, and ABS. Traction control does not work. Cruise does not work....All fuses are good. Cannot clear Dash lights.
Incident date: Aug 25, 2025
Steering Sensor leading to ABS malfunctioning. Including Instrument dash lights ...Parking Break, Anti Skid, and ABS. Traction control does not work. Cruise does not work....All fuses are good. Cannot clear Dash lights.
Incident date: Jul 1, 2025
The contact owns a 2012 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure). The contact stated that the A-pillar trim was loose. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact called the local dealer, who confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the issue. The fa... Read more
Incident date: Jul 23, 2025
I was driving on the highway at a fast speed 75+ miles per hour. I was in the left lane. My car turned off and there was no acceleration. It was not getting fuel. I was able to make it to the right lane and merge off the highway before it stopped moving by momentum alone. Cars had to slow down and go around me almost causing an accident. It is not okay to let people drive around in an unsafe ... Read more
KIA
SPORTAGE HYBRID
(2025) - EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Aug 25, 2025
Incident date: Aug 24, 2025
tail light assembly falls out of the truck body due to faulty bolt connections that fail ( crumble and break off) due to heat from parking in the sun
Incident date: May 30, 2025
Four Nokian Ones 245/50R20 102V were purchased online from Priority Tires and shipped to Mr. Tire Hammonton NJ on [XXX]. All four tires are separating along the tread block edge on both sides. The tires are being held at Mr. Tire in Hammonton for inspection. Mr. Tire has maintained this vehicle since original purchase 2007 and with severe vibration occurring they determined the cause was tire ... Read more
Incident date: Aug 25, 2025
The eTorq generator stopped working and the engine shutdown on the highway. I had to get a tow to the shop as the vehicle is not usable and the engine will not start. Furthermore, this part is unavailable with no-ETA as it is on nationwide backorder. I have been waiting for over a month I was told over 13000 of these are on backorder for customers around the country. I have also read many post... Read more
Incident date: Jul 13, 2025
Several people have told me that they hear a banging or thudding heavy sound coming my 2018 odyssey engine. The sound frequency increases as the engine rpm’s increase. I have seen many reports that state that this symptom could lead to a total engine failure which makes the car unsafe and is caused by incorrectly machined crank shafts (oversized). I called Honda and was told there is no recall ... Read more
Incident date: Jul 13, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Nissan Maxima. The contact stated that while driving at 30 MPH, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine. The vehicle jerked before stalling in the middle of the road. No warning lights were illuminated. The Police were called to block traffic. The vehicle was towed. The tow truck driver had issues while attempting to tow the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the ... Read more
Incident date: Jul 25, 2025
ACTIVE RECALL KR15 engine bearing, NHTSA # 25V-437
Incident date: Jun 30, 2025
The power steering assist fault warning light came up and my steering wheel became hard to steer.
Incident date: Aug 25, 2025
I have an alert that says Front Passenger Safety Restraint System Issue and Service is required. This is a major safety issue and the Tesla Service Center says I need to pay $800 to fix it. This is a manufacturer issue and the cost should not be incurred by the vehicle owner. This issue puts my family safety at risk and the light is coming up everytime I drive. I need TESLA to review it and fix ... Read more
Incident date: Jul 29, 2025
Instrument panel cluster loss power. No prior warning signs before loss of power.
Incident date: Aug 20, 2025
At a stoplight vehicle wanted to stall out Motor was shaking
Incident date: Aug 1, 2025
At 119,000 miles, the UA80F transmission in our 2021 Toyota Highlander XSE started making a whining noise. A dealer confirms the transmission needs to be replaced. After much research, this is apparently a known issue and Toyota will not warranty the repair after the 60,000 mile warranty expires. Estimated repair cost is $11,000.
Incident date: Aug 1, 2025
The contact owns a 2024 Kia Niro. The contact stated that while driving in slow traffic, the vehicle accelerated unintentionally and crashed into the rear of another vehicle. The contact stated that while reversing, the failure recurred and the rear end of the vehicle crashed into the front end of another vehicle. The air bags did not deploy. There was no warning light illuminated. None of the veh... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Aug 1, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal grinding sound coming from the vehicle, with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the check engine warning light illuminated and then went off. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with solenoid valve failure. The contact was... Read more
Incident date: Aug 14, 2025
While merging onto a highway, my 2020 Hyundai Palisade abruptly lost all engine power and stalled. This immediate and complete failure occurred at a critical moment, posing an extreme safety risk. All dashboard warning lights illuminated, but provided no specific diagnosis. The vehicle was towed to a dealership, where technicians determined the engine was consuming oil at an abnormal rate, despit... Read more
Incident date: Aug 22, 2025
Oil pressure light came on the same day the engine sees on freeway
Fire
Incident date: Aug 22, 2025
Oil pressure light came on the same day the engine sees on freeway
Fire
Incident date: Aug 24, 2025
My truck has 140,000 miles and I have maintained it to the specs provided by Ford My vehicle began to unexpectedly overheat when I was in 6th gear cruising at a low RPM. I had the coolant fluid tested for exhaust gasses. Exhaust gasses were detected and it was determined I had a blown head gasket. After taking to mechanics, other owners all over the internet, and Ford dealership employees at the ... Read more
Incident date: Jan 1, 2023
I rented a motorcycle from EagleRider in the United States and discovered that the speedometer displayed only kilometers per hour (kph), with no miles per hour (mph). This is not just inconvenient — it is illegal under Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 123, which requires that motorcycles in the U.S. display speed in mph, or both mph and kph. Because the bike was non-compliant, I wa... Read more
Incident date: Aug 20, 2025
On or about August 7 or 8, my wife was driving our vehicle when it suddenly stalled and stopped running. Prior to this incident, we received a warning that the battery was low and that the vehicle needed to be started immediately. On August 9, I replaced the battery. That same day, we contacted the dealership where we purchased the vehicle and reported the issue. We were advised not to drive the ... Read more
Incident date: Aug 22, 2025
Filled my tank with gas. Got into the vehicle and started if and could almost immediately smell gas in cabin. Thought maybe I got gas the wasn’t good. Refilled twice with premium gas and smell did not go away and you could then smell it outside of the vehicle as well. Very strong, drive it to my VW Service Dealef to have it looked at then.
Incident date: Jun 11, 2025
The adhesive for the rear sliding window is failing and as a result this window is about to come off.
Incident date: Aug 14, 2025
Air conditioner stops working intermittently
Incident date: Aug 4, 2025
My 2019 jeep Cherokee latitude only had 25000 miles on it when i bought it. Within a month the emergence break would come on by itself randomly while driving or beginning to accelerate from a parked or stopped state. Vehicle also can be parked completely level and it states the vehicle needs to be returned to park and restarted. Meanwhile all the lights come on on the dash and the shifter lights ... Read more
Incident date: Aug 21, 2025
Transmission is juttering and slipping significantly. Low power on take off and no check engine light on. Dealer states there is nothing wrong but clearly something is wrong with the Transmission.
Crash
Incident date: Jul 2, 2025
I own a 2018 Chevrolet Cruze, and the infotainment touchscreen system has completely frozen with the same error screen that many other Cruze owners have reported online. This is not simply a case of an unresponsive touchscreen — the system locks up with an identical error screen across multiple Cruze vehicles (different years and trims). The issue disables all touchscreen functions, including B... Read more
Incident date: Jul 21, 2025
The contact's son owns a 2018 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH and pulling into a parking lot, the vehicle felt like one of the front tires was not rotating. The contact was able to pull into a parking space. Upon inspecting the vehicle, the contact noticed that the driver's side front tire was not rotating. The contact and a bystander noticed that the driver's side front tir... Read more