Consumer Safety Complaints
Search 2,215,138 safety complaints filed by vehicle owners with NHTSA — including 138,663 crashes, 56,255 fires, and 8,561 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 2,215,138 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 60,583 complaints for KIA
KIA
SPORTAGE HYBRID
(2024) — FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Feb 6, 2026
Incident date: Jan 15, 2026
Catastrophic Loss of Motive Power and Power Steering at Road Speed Following Recall 68C Update. Description: On February 6, 2026, my 2024 Jeep Wrangler 4xe (Mileage: 24,947) suffered a catastrophic safety failure while in motion on a public roadway. This occurred about 25 hours after the vehicle was "cleared" by a dealership for Recall 68C (NHTSA Recall 25V-741). While driving at approximately 25... Read more
Crash
KIA
SPORTAGE HYBRID
(2024) — UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Feb 6, 2026
Incident date: Jan 15, 2026
In January 2026, my wife was driving our 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid EX downhill in traffic when the hybrid system failed without warning. Cabin filled with smoke, lost steering control, and explosion shook the vehicle. She was surrounded by other vehicles and could have been killed or caused multi-car crash. COMPONENT FAILURE: Dealership diagnosed hybrid system failure after 2.5 weeks. Vehicle at de... Read more
Incident date: Oct 13, 2025
This issue presents a serious safety concern. During the initial occurrence, the vehicle was unable to sustain highway speeds for extended periods (approximately 10 minutes or more). When coming to a stop, the vehicle would shake, rev unexpectedly, lose power, and shut off completely. During these events, the vehicle would not accelerate, creating a hazardous situation, especially in traffic. The ... Read more
Incident date: Jan 5, 2026
While driving under normal conditions, the vehicle suddenly became unstable and difficult to control. Steering response was abnormal, and the vehicle did not behave as expected, creating a loss of stability and control. The incident occurred without warning and required the vehicle to be towed. This event raised serious safety concerns, as the vehicle appeared prone to instability and unsafe oper... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Dec 21, 2025
The contact owns a 2006 Dodge Ram 1500. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, oil stains were found on the ground underneath the vehicle. The contact checked underneath the vehicle and became aware that the rear axle pinion nut was loose. The axle pinion nut was tightened. The contact stated that the oil stains on the ground persisted. The local dealer was contacted; however, the v... Read more
Incident date: Dec 21, 2025
The ICCU failed and left me stranded in single digit temperatures.
Incident date: Jun 6, 2017
I own a Nuna RAVA child car seat that was subject to a voluntary safety recall. My original car seat was purchased in the color “Caviar.” As part of the recall remedy, Nuna provided a replacement seat cover kit in a different color that does not match the original product I purchased. Nuna has confirmed to me in writing that they currently manufacture and ship the Caviar color, but has stated... Read more
Incident date: Feb 3, 2026
While driving on US-rt1 in Dinwiddie Va, in my 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. I was in a collision where a vehicle pulled out in front of me at no fault of my own, and I hit that vehicle going about 47mph. the front nor rear/side air bags deployed. My body slammed into the steering wheel causing severe whiplash as well and contusions to my left shoulder and neck, as well as my wife to be who also su... Read more
Crash
1 injured
Incident date: Jan 6, 2026
Failure to charge properly on both alternating current and direct current platforms. Trips electrical breakers at residence while charging at home on AC current. The vehicle will only DC fast charge for a few minutes before charge session is prematurely terminated. I have been told by the KIA that it is a failure in the integrated charge control unit (ICCU). They told me there were 47 current prob... Read more
Incident date: Feb 6, 2026
While attempting a left-hand turn, the steering wheel suddenly became stiff and unresponsive, as if the mechanical gear had bound. This sudden resistance made it impossible to complete the turn, causing the vehicle to strike a curb at low speed. A post-accident inspection at Lee Johnson Mazda (RO# 649854) confirmed extensive damage, including a bent inner tie rod, a damaged front wheel bearing/hub... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Feb 6, 2026
Odometer Fraud. The contact owns a 2008 Kia Optima. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed the vehicle's transmission failure. The contact discovered a mileage discrepancy after purchasing the vehicle. The vehicle was a dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the mileage was 198,000. It was later discove... Read more
Incident date: Feb 6, 2026
Odometer Fraud. The contact owns a 2008 Kia Optima. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed the vehicle's transmission failure. The contact discovered a mileage discrepancy after purchasing the vehicle. The vehicle was a dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the mileage was 198,000. It was later discove... Read more
Incident date: Oct 24, 2025
In at least 3 different drivers experienced the engine shutting off while driving at low speeds. It happened either while stopped at the traffic light, or shortly after being stopped at the traffic. The engine stalled and the message on the dash said to stop the vehicle, turn it off, then turn it back on. Fortunately, we were able to coast to a stop and follow the procedures. We replaced the f... Read more
Incident date: Oct 24, 2025
The 2025 Kia K4 sensors failed to go off resulting in the rear bumper to hit a barrell. The operator of the Kia K4 was reversing at 1mph
Crash
Incident date: Oct 24, 2025
The 2025 Kia K4 sensors failed to go off resulting in the rear bumper to hit a barrell. The operator of the Kia K4 was reversing at 1mph
Crash
Incident date: Jan 1, 2026
The contact owns a 2015 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving in fourth or fifth gear, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted to first gear. The contact shifted the transmission into neutral(N) and came to a stop at the traffic light before starting to drive. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Acti... Read more
Incident date: Feb 4, 2026
The car was running perfect, 9 months after I bought this car, before 20,000 miles Front Left Axle become defective, and therefore, the dealer promised to reemplaced it, but I am still waiting from the dealer. It is a big risk to runs the car like that.
Incident date: Dec 4, 2025
The contact's wife owns a 2024 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact stated that while his wife was driving 60 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed and went to the floorboard, and the vehicle failed to respond. The driver engaged the parking brake; however, the vehicle failed to respond. The driver swerved to avoid the vehicle in front, drove over an incline, jerked the steering wheel, and the vehicle eve... Read more
Incident date: Feb 5, 2026
My 2017 Ford Focus transmission failed at 113,000 miles. I was stranded in the middle of nowhere with a flashing warning light and no cell signal.
Incident date: Feb 4, 2026
Windshield wipers stopped working in middle of bad snow storm. I had to pull over, wait for the weather to improve before proceeding. I have a minor child and safety is a concern to me. Thought it was the wiper so I went to AutoZone to replace it and was told the problem is the wiper motor and that I needed to take to the dealership for repair
Incident date: Jan 19, 2026
Newnan Peachtree Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram: The dealership initially identified the recall-related failure but subsequently "deleted operations" from my service record. They replaced these with different labor codes and "tag numbers" to misclassify the repair. By deleting the recall codes, the dealer successfully billed my third-party extended warranty for a transmission replacement. This allowed th... Read more
Incident date: Jan 19, 2026
This electric vehicle failed to charge at level 2 charger at home. It charged at level 3 fast chargers however it registered a full charge at 125 miles and the level of charge in % and miles remaining fluctuated with sudden shifts. There were no warning lights or other signs of problems. I took it to the dealership who wanted me to keep driving and wait a week for an appointment. I knew that thi... Read more
Incident date: Jan 19, 2026
This electric vehicle failed to charge at level 2 charger at home. It charged at level 3 fast chargers however it registered a full charge at 125 miles and the level of charge in % and miles remaining fluctuated with sudden shifts. There were no warning lights or other signs of problems. I took it to the dealership who wanted me to keep driving and wait a week for an appointment. I knew that thi... Read more
Incident date: Dec 31, 1969
As of Aug 2025, my car keeps having issues of stalling/ bucking, even though my mechanic has changed the points/plugs twice now. Now the overheat light comes on ,off and on.. sometimes clears up once the car is shut off and then turned back on.. some times has to sit for a while, then clears up
Incident date: Dec 31, 1969
Car lost all power and came to a stop while backing out of a driveway on a residential street. It would not respond to any attempts to start it. None of assessories worked. It had to be towed to the dealership. The dealer said the 12v battery was at fault and had to be ordered from Kia. I was told the ICCU unit had failed and drained the 12v battery. It waited for the part from Kia. Then the ... Read more
Incident date: Aug 27, 2025
“My vehicle, a 2017 Kia Optima, had repeated safety issues documented in service records. Despite multiple repair attempts (per attached records), the problem remained unresolved and put my safety at risk. I’m seeking further investigation or resolution.”
Incident date: Aug 27, 2025
“My vehicle, a 2017 Kia Optima, had repeated safety issues documented in service records. Despite multiple repair attempts (per attached records), the problem remained unresolved and put my safety at risk. I’m seeking further investigation or resolution.”
Incident date: Feb 4, 2026
Vehicle makes a loud noise when under 65mph. Car shakes when breaking. Transmission needs to be replaced.
Incident date: Feb 4, 2026
On January 28, 2026, I brought my vehicle to Kia of Fayetteville for brake pads, rotor replacement, and brake fluid service. I paid approximately $900 for these services and was provided a dealership loaner vehicle. Upon entering the loaner vehicle, I discovered a loaded firearm inside the vehicle as I was gathering my items. The firearm’s serial numbers appeared to be scratched off. Law enforce... Read more
Incident date: Feb 4, 2026
On January 28, 2026, I brought my vehicle to Kia of Fayetteville for brake pads, rotor replacement, and brake fluid service. I paid approximately $900 for these services and was provided a dealership loaner vehicle. Upon entering the loaner vehicle, I discovered a loaded firearm inside the vehicle as I was gathering my items. The firearm’s serial numbers appeared to be scratched off. Law enforce... Read more
Incident date: Jan 27, 2026
ABS module needs replacing which can lead to accidents and care unexpectedly going into lump mode. Part is impossible to get as Jeep as not produced in years and on permanent backorder. This is a safety hazard for myself and my family. Jeep refuses to issue a recall or offer a fix.
Incident date: Jan 27, 2026
Vehicle fire causing a total loss to vehicle and home
Fire
Incident date: Apr 1, 2024
I am reporting a safety issue involving a Cybex Eternis S child car seat. The seat was manufactured on 02/28/2020 and has a printed expiration date of 02/25/2030, indicating a 10 year usable life. At approximately five years of use, the head impact foam failed and is broken into two separate pieces. The foam pieces are detached. This foam is a required safety component. Cybex customer service co... Read more
Incident date: Jan 16, 2026
Car is inoperable. The display states a number of issues: Display states that: 1. "Error: Drive System. Please service vehicle." 2. "Unable to Start. Please Remove the Charging Cable": Vehicle is unable to start due to the fact that the charger cable is still attached. The vehicle is not plugged in, and cannot be moved because of this. 3.Display states that "Range Cannot Be Calculated" 4."Elec... Read more
Incident date: Jan 16, 2026
Owner was driving home at the normal posted speed limit when the car stalled out. The check engine light was on along with the oil Light, the car cranked back up in time before owner was rear ended. No accident occurred but a close call. The vehicle made it about another 1 mile before stalling again this time losing all control in steering as well and was towed home.
Incident date: Dec 17, 2025
My name is [XXX] , and I am writing to formally submit a complaint regarding the loss of my vehicle due to engine fire. The vehicle was a 2021 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon, VIN [XXX] , with approximately 26,666 miles at the time of loss. I purchased the vehicle on May 13, 2021. The fire occurred on July 10, 2025. I was driving on the freeway, and my vehicle lost power and dashboard warning lights illu... Read more
Fire
Incident date: Jan 31, 2026
A "Reduced Engine Power" warning in a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox LT usually indicates the car has entered "limp mode" to protect the engine, most commonly caused by a dirty/faulty throttle body, loose Charge Air Cooler (CAC) tube, or sensor issues (MAF/TPS). Common codes include P0299 (turbo underboost). When this occurs, I cannot utilize my remote starter. I purchased an Innova OBD2 Code Reader, co... Read more
Incident date: Dec 5, 2025
The driver side mirror is shaking and distorted. This issue happened right the first day I took the car home. I immediately contacted the dealership and they asked us to bring the car back to change a new mirror. After changing the new mirror, the problem is still there. The dealership told us to contact Toyota Brand Engagement Center. We did and they denied our claim so we went back to the dealer... Read more
Incident date: Feb 5, 2026
While driving, the vehicle displayed a “Check Electrical System” warning and experienced loss of propulsion power. The vehicle became inoperable and required towing. The Hyundai dealer diagnosed failure of the Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU), a known failure point on this platform. The ICCU is currently on backorder with no confirmed repair date. This failure creates a serious safety r... Read more
Incident date: Feb 3, 2026
When I’m going around the corner, the steering feels sort of sticky and either won’t stay in one place or feels a little bit stuck in one place. It sometimes feels like someone else is making micro adjustments to the steering as I’m holding the steering wheel. This has been happening for about the last 10,000 miles on the vehicle.
Incident date: Feb 3, 2026
Stable track control failed to work, the driver seatbelt did not tighten & stayed loose, & air bags did not deploy upon hitting the ditch & small trees resulting after hitting ice/water upon coming to a stop sign at a “T” cross road.
Crash
2 injured
Incident date: Feb 3, 2026
Stable track control failed to work, the driver seatbelt did not tighten & stayed loose, & air bags did not deploy upon hitting the ditch & small trees resulting after hitting ice/water upon coming to a stop sign at a “T” cross road.
Crash
2 injured
Incident date: Feb 5, 2026
I have a 6-speed (6R80) transmission. My V8-FORD F-150 2016, truck transmission has been experiencing SHIFTING issues for quite some time now. I reading now that all of these same problems that has been going on with my truck might be a recall. My truck downshifts very aggressively and I was told it does not need to be replaced but it could be something electrical. I have taken my truck to numerou... Read more
Incident date: Feb 2, 2026
Vehicle only has 5839 miles and this is the 2nd time the battery has been dead. First time was Dec 18th 2025. Vehicle purchased 7/5/25. 2nd time 2/5/26. First time the outside lights flickered for a long time before finally going off. 2nd time the outside lights didnt flicker and key fob wont even lock the car. We took the vehicle in for service after 1st dead battery instance and they told us we... Read more
Incident date: Feb 1, 2026
The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while reversing the vehicle on a cold, snowy day, there was oil on the driveway. There was a fuel odor inside the vehicle, and the engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who determined that the failure was related to the PCV system. The mechanic stated that the PCV valve was clogged,... Read more
Incident date: Jan 29, 2026
The windshield started to ha a small crack starting in n it now it’s moving across the windshield toward the driver side and it wasn’t hit by anything
Incident date: Feb 5, 2026
The contact owns a 2017 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted from seventh to second gear. The contact stated the wrench icon was displayed on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the computer needed to be re-flashed. The vehicle was repaired; however, the f... Read more