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 5, 2025
Stellantis is unable to provide a timey remedy for NHTSA Recall Number24V-896. The hydraulic control unit ("HCU") is susceptible to failure or malfunction which may result in a reduction or change of Anti-Lock Brake System ("ABS")/Electronic Stability Control ("ESC") /Traction Control performance. A failing HCU will initially result in the intermittent loss of ABS/Traction control progressing to p... Read more
Incident date: Aug 8, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while driving at slow speeds, the vehicle stalled with the message "Service Now” flashing on the instrument panel. After waiting for approximately 15-30 minutes, the vehicle was restarted and resumed normal operation. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, and it was discovered that the oil filter adapter was cracked, ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 10, 2024
This tends to only happen below 74 degrees Fahrenheit and happens excessively between 72 and 74 degrees Fahrenheit. While driving with one pedal engaged (labeled as low on the shifter since they re-used another model's shifter for the first several years of the Bolt EV), the cruise control will randomly disengage and force the vehicle to immediately slam on the brakes. Usually its not a big deal... Read more
Incident date: Aug 11, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact stated that the vehicle experienced a transmission failure, and the transmission was replaced by the dealer. The contact stated that the dealer also replaced the rack and pinion due to an abnormal clunking sound coming from the steering wheel. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing abnormal oil consumption. The vehicle was t... Read more
Incident date: Aug 11, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact stated that the vehicle experienced a transmission failure, and the transmission was replaced by the dealer. The contact stated that the dealer also replaced the rack and pinion due to an abnormal clunking sound coming from the steering wheel. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing abnormal oil consumption. The vehicle was t... Read more
Incident date: Jun 10, 2025
My whole steering wheel detached while driving
Crash
Incident date: Jun 10, 2025
I was pulling into street parking spot behind a parked car at a slow speed and braking to stop. I put my foot on the brake to bring the car to a complete stop but instead of slowing down the car accelerated straight into the vehicle in front of me. The rear end of the car in front of me was substantially damaged.
Crash
Incident date: Aug 5, 2025
The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. The contact stated that on two separate occasions while driving at undisclosed speeds, the vehicle shut off unintendedly and without warning. The contact stated that after restarting the vehicle, the vehicle operated normally. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The m... Read more
Incident date: Jul 21, 2025
My car's brake pedal started not working properly. When trying to brake, the brake pedal goes down further than what it is supposed to and it takes longer than normal to brake, causing almost wrecks. It happens suddenly when trying to brake sometimes and it is very scary. There was a previous recall on the brake lines and it said they needed to be flushed out and all. I had this done to my car... Read more
Incident date: Aug 12, 2025
Continuous illumination of all lights on the dash. We have to reset the battery to clear the codes and it will do it again but the timing differs. Now, I am getting the “Airbag SRS System Problem” that pops up and then goes away when the vehicle is restarted. This has been going on for over a year. We have replaced the alternator and continue to try and find the actual malfunction as a code re... Read more
Incident date: Jul 5, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while making a left turn, the steering wheel became extremely firm. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the tie rod and the front brakes needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact believed that the failure was associated with NHTSA Camp... Read more
Incident date: Jul 31, 2025
This vehicle began using oil and the mechanic I took it to told me that the piston rings were compromised. This was allowing mixing of oil and gas, overuse of oil, intermittent white plumes of exhaust and causing misfires, fouling of plugs and set off codes pertaining to the piston rings as well as the catalytic converter. He changed the spark plug and told me my options were a rebuilt engine or... Read more
Incident date: Jul 31, 2025
We came from a 2020 Telluride which had the steering assist and it was awesome. It worked great and kept the vehicle centered in the lane. I bought this vehicle about two weeks ago and we put over 4000 miles this week on the pro4x with the pilot 1.1. This thing is all over the road and it hugs the right line then with any curve even the slightest, it acts like a ping pong ball putting the line to ... Read more
Incident date: Jul 31, 2025
On [XXX], at approximately [XXX], I was involved in a major collision in Northridge, California, while driving my 2023 Toyota [Model], VIN: [XXX] . While making a left turn from [XXX] to [XXX], my vehicle was struck on the driver’s side/front area. I was wearing my seatbelt. Despite the severity of the impact and heavy vehicle damage, the airbags failed to deploy. Component/System Failed: Airba... Read more
Crash
1 injured
Incident date: Aug 8, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the front driver’s side and passenger’s side A-pillar trims detached. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had... Read more
Incident date: May 10, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that after coming to a complete stop, the START/STOP function activated and turned the vehicle off; however, while attempting to drive from the stop, the engine failed to restart. After waiting 5-10 minutes, the vehicle was able to restart and returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. No warning lights wer... Read more
Incident date: Jul 31, 2025
It is very easy to inadvertently touch the "SET" button for the cruise control. The button is capacitive so a very light touch activates the button, and it is on the outer edge of steering wheel spoke, meaning a light brush while turning the wheel activate the button. When maneuvering at slow speeds (such as in a parking lot) this results in the car accelerating, uncommanded, and without warning, ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 16, 2024
I have a 2018 Mustang GT with the 10R80 transmission. The transmission started giving me problems like slamming and slipping while shifting and sometimes jumping in and out of gear when drinking in the highway.The problem came from an engineering is with the CDF Drum... Ford has updated the CDF Drum and has fixed the problem. Ford never issues a recall to fix this problem with the vehicles produce... Read more
Incident date: Jul 28, 2025
Lots of play on the steering wheel (at all speeds). Car swerves driving down the road. Took it to the Honda Dealership. They informed me that the rack and pinion binding need to be replaced (at a $4305.02 estimated cost, with a $139.05 re-alignment). Link to Honda Diagnostics: [XXX] I am not sure how this is possible when my car is approximately 20,000 miles. I drive mainly to work which is unde... Read more
Incident date: Apr 14, 2025
The contact owns a 2006 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle turned off independently but was able to be restarted. Additionally, the vehicle was difficult to start. The vehicle was taken to an independent shop, where the PCM was reprogrammed and an unknown fuel injector repair was performed; however, the failure recurred. The contact stated that ... Read more
Incident date: Jul 14, 2025
The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250. The contact stated that occasionally, while driving at various speeds, the vehicle experienced a loss of automotive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the failure had progressed. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and DTC: P052E71; was retrieved. The local dealer wa... Read more
Incident date: May 30, 2025
Vehicle was taken in for service after the check engine light illuminated. Upon inspection, it was determined that coolant is leaking into the No. 2 cylinder, requiring a complete engine replacement. This is a serious safety concern, as engine failure can occur without warning. The vehicle is a 2018 model with only 51,159 miles, purchased new from the local Ford dealership, and should not be exper... Read more
Incident date: Aug 10, 2025
The contact owns a 2012 Volkswagen Passat. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V834000 (AIR BAGS). The dealer was contacted; however, the contact was informed that parts were available for the recall repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted about parts not being made available. The contact had not experienced a failure. The VIN was not availabl... Read more
KIA
CARNIVAL HYBRID
(2025) - TIRES:SIDEWALL
Aug 11, 2025
Incident date: Aug 11, 2025
My tire is a 255 / 40 ZR 19 model, speed rated 100W. While rotating my tires I noticed catastrophic tread separation on the inner sidewall of the tire. The separation is scattered, not all in one section, and in total covers about 1/4 of the total diameter. The underlying belt package has separated and steel wire is plainly visible at distance. The tire was still holding normal pressure at the tim... Read more
Incident date: Apr 16, 2025
The contact owns a 2006 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle turned off independently but was able to be restarted. Additionally, the vehicle was difficult to start. The vehicle was taken to an independent shop, where the PCM was reprogrammed and an unknown fuel injector repair was performed; however, the failure recurred. The contact stated that ... Read more
Incident date: Aug 11, 2025
The contact owns a 2005 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that while the vehicle was on a lift at the independent mechanic, it was discovered that the rear subframe was rusted. The contact was informed that the subframe needed to be replaced. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximate... Read more
Incident date: Aug 11, 2025
Rear wheels of vehicle locked up momentarily mutliple times while driving between 45 and 65 miles per hour. Originally happened multiple times while towing a travel trailer but subsequently happened again with no trailer being towed. No warning lights or other sign of a problem leading up to any of the malfunctions. After locking up for approximately a quarter to half a second, the wheels release... Read more
Incident date: May 25, 2025
The issue involves ongoing water intrusion through the panoramic sunroof, front power windows, and windshield seals. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. This recurring leak has caused extensive interior water damage, including visible mold growth in the carpet on multiple occasions. This mold presents serious health risks to both me and my passengers, especially my sister, who is... Read more
Incident date: Aug 11, 2025
I own a 2019 Ford EcoSport, VIN [XXX] , which is subject to recall 23S64 / 23V905 (Engine Oil Pump Belt and Tensioner Replacement - Final Repair). I was informed of this recall in June 2024, yet Ford has advised there is currently no available remedy. This is a serious safety concern. Under 49 U.S.C. Chapter 301 and the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act, manufacturers must correct safe... Read more
Incident date: Jul 2, 1967
When I first bought the vehicle the "pre-collision assist not available" light on the dashboard was on from the factory. Service did something and got rid of it. However, it still comes on and off intermittently every now and then. Everything states cleaning off the area might help but that's not the issue as windshield/camera area is always clean. I don't know why it keeps going on and off bu... Read more
Incident date: May 1, 2025
My 2022 Kia Soul was recalled due to an engine defect involving piston oil rings. The recall repair was supposed to include a specific engine vibration test and possibly an engine replacement if the test failed. Initially, the dealership performed the test incorrectly and said it failed. They redid the test and said it passed, but instead of replacing or fully inspecting the engine, they only inst... Read more
Incident date: Jul 14, 2025
Front Camera Fault Service not available. Pre-Collision Assist Not Available. These faults have been showing up for over a year. I have taken my car to the dealer about 10 times, to no avail. Every time you hit a bump it happens. As I write this my car is in the shop again. The internet is rife with people complaining about this problem.
Incident date: Jul 23, 2025
The contact owns a 2019 Ford F-250. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission imploded while shifting into first gear with the powertrain warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 89,000.
Incident date: Aug 11, 2025
The contact owns a 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz. The contact stated that while driving 62 MPH, the Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking system erroneously engaged. The Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking warning light illuminated. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but offered no assis... Read more
Incident date: Aug 11, 2025
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Blown head gasket How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Engine overheated and coolant boiled in 110 degree weather. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes by Hyundai. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manu... Read more
Incident date: Aug 9, 2025
The vehicle has ongoing acceleration delay and jerking under normal driving, along with repeated premature rear brake wear and a major coolant leak that required head gasket replacement. The most recent incident occurred on August 8, 2025, immediately after picking up the vehicle from a service visit for the acceleration concern. Two separate throttle delays with a sudden jerk forward occurred at ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 8, 2025
New 2025 F150 Lariat with 3.5L V-6 Twin-Turbo Full Hybrid. Truck was sitting in garage and off when suddenly a message appeared on the digital speedometer area saying there was a powertrain fault. Truck only had 280 miles. At about 310 miles, service light came on indicating service was due. Checked FordPass app and the on board diagnostic program indicated there was a power train fault detected. ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 8, 2025
Driving on highway at 40mph while towing a trailer the rear tires briefly locked up, then the Check Engine Light came on and vehicle went into limp mode. Dealer confirmed transmission valve body issue. Same problem as recalled on earlier model year vehicles. Seems like 2023-2025 vehicles should be added to the original recall to ensure support and long-term warranty protection.
Incident date: Aug 9, 2025
Lane Keeping assistance and Lane Departure warning include components that allow the vehicle to steer itself. They may be subject to cyber-attack and/or otherwise malfunction. it is my experience that one or the other is causing my vehicle to veer into other lanes of traffic as well as oncoming traffic on the other side of the road. I own the vehicle outright and it is available for inspection upo... Read more
Incident date: Jul 31, 2025
Passenger headrest popped out while driving downs the road. No accident bump or anything visible set it off. It punched out like an air bag.
Incident date: May 14, 2025
the steering wheel used to be centered in the middle. when you turn right, its resistance would turn it left back to the center point. or when you turn left, its resistance would turn it back right towards the center point. so after each turn such as u-turn, one would grab the steering wheel lightly so it can slide back to the center position. i will call it the "no resistance" point for that cent... Read more
Incident date: Aug 6, 2025
The coolant reservoir is missing hoses which are supposed to be connected. The head gasket is completely blown out, which is under warranty. Excessive overheating—three signs light up on the dashboard: red thermometer indicating an overheating engine; check engine light; and check engine light with arrow pointing downward indicating engine speed to be reduced. Trax stopped in the middle of the t... Read more
Incident date: May 14, 2024
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? UNKNOWN; believe it may be something with the suspension or possibly the transmission. Their is a chirping sound when making a low speed (15 MPH or so) turn more prominent when making turn up a hill. Sounds can also sometimes be replicated when letting off the accelerator and getting back on it agai... Read more
Incident date: Jul 28, 2025
2024 new 4th-generation Tacoma Hybrid Limited. During driving in snow or rain, the front chrome grille or another component in the front, appears to collect water. Periodically, it releases a sudden burst of water or snow onto both sides of the windshield. The impact is abrupt, like having a snowball or large splash of water thrown at the glass, and is startling because it’s unexpected. This hap... Read more
Incident date: Jul 28, 2025
2024 new 4th-generation Tacoma Hybrid Limited. During driving in snow or rain, the front chrome grille or another component in the front, appears to collect water. Periodically, it releases a sudden burst of water or snow onto both sides of the windshield. The impact is abrupt, like having a snowball or large splash of water thrown at the glass, and is startling because it’s unexpected. This hap... Read more
Incident date: Aug 6, 2025
While driving with my small children in the vehicle, my 2022 Acura MDX suddenly displayed multiple simultaneous system failures without warning and the steering wheel locked and the car slowed and the brakes didn't work well: •Brake System Problem – warning that braking performance may be reduced •Electric Power Steering Problem – “Do Not Drive” warning •Vehicle Stability Assist Prob... Read more
Incident date: Aug 9, 2025
Last October we purchased a new 4 Runner (vin [XXX] ) and to date we have a little over 200 miles on it. The primary issue surrounding the lack of usage is that the running boards “platform" does not extend far enough out from the body. My wife has an extremely hard time both entering and exiting the vehicle, as the surface area is too narrow at 2 3/4". Even placing your foot parallel with the b... Read more
Incident date: Jun 28, 2025
Brake assist, ESC alerts on vehicle. Sat in the dealer service shop for 3 days and said to have been fixed. Still with same issue
Incident date: Aug 1, 2024
Too fast and too close to stop sign to red light or other cars while in Full Self Drive (supervised).I had to disable it to avoid risks of accident.Even using Chilly Mode.