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
Incident date: Nov 27, 2025
The right rear taillight assembly fell out while driving on an interstate. No apparent reason
Incident date: Dec 7, 2025
December 2025: Yet ANOTHER horn failure. Pressed the vehicle's horn to alert another driver that they were drifting into my lane on the highway, and it FAILED to produce the loud sound that it is SUPPOSED TO make. It needed to be replaced again for the FOURTH time. Part 96611-J9500 was replaced—AGAIN. This is a continued safety issue that Hyundai has neglected to address and fix. Spontaneous hor... Read more
Incident date: Dec 5, 2025
I have a major engine failure on the 1.5L ecoboost engine. The engine failed away from home (at Costco) and had to arrange a ride home. Towed to the dealer where they diagnosed a coolant intrusion into #3 cylinder which locked the engine. Researched this and found out that this is a known defect. Ford will do nothing to repair this because I fall outside the window of their multiple Technical Serv... Read more
Incident date: Dec 8, 2025
The vehicle was shifting hard and eratically on the highway. All dashboard lights came on including the ESC failure warning. A misfire in cylinder 2 occurred without any warning lights causing the vehicle engine to stop running on a highway. The mechanic repair shop did a disgnostic evaluation and reported a catastrophic engine failure from cylinder 2. The engine does not run and requires full rep... Read more
Incident date: Dec 8, 2025
Road debris under normal driving conditions caused a puncture of the inverter radiator resulting in a total loss of coolant in the inverter and battery system. Inspection of the system at a Kia dealer confirmed the problem. The first sign of concern was an error displayed on the driver screen stating, "Check drive motor cooling system". There is no mention of this error in the owner's manual for t... Read more
Incident date: Dec 8, 2025
Road debris under normal driving conditions caused a puncture of the inverter radiator resulting in a total loss of coolant in the inverter and battery system. Inspection of the system at a Kia dealer confirmed the problem. The first sign of concern was an error displayed on the driver screen stating, "Check drive motor cooling system". There is no mention of this error in the owner's manual for t... Read more
Incident date: Dec 5, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Nissan Sentra. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 23V581000 (Steering) and 21V461000 (Steering). The contact stated that while in reverse(R) and turning the steering wheel, the contact observed a clicking sound coming from under the front of the vehicle. The contact stated there was no warning light or messages displayed. The vehicle was taken to ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 12, 2025
My vehicle is under an open safety recall 01C involving the PTU system, and there has been no remedy available for nearly a year. This defect caused a dangerous and sudden loss of acceleration while I was driving, and the manufacturer has still provided no fix, and no support through the dealership. The incident occurred when I was stopped at a red light. When the light turned green,I pressed the... Read more
Incident date: Dec 9, 2025
Skyroof suddenly stopped working and will not close. No dealers will fix as thry say parts aren't longer available..my car is now worthless and is a safety issue while driving with the roof partially opened.
Incident date: Oct 10, 2025
Tailgate latch fails and the gate opens while driving. This happened to me and I lost part of my load on the road causing a dangerous situation to other vehicles I can also lose valuable items or they could get damaged. I notified the dealership about this on two occasions and was told that there was no recall on the 2018 but other years were covered .
Incident date: Oct 31, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that the transmission was failing and was slipping between 3rd and 4th gear. Additionally, the contact stated that the torque converter was also failing. There were no warning lights illuminated. There was an abnormally sharp chirping metal-on-metal and a rumbling sound coming from the vehicle while accelerating. There were no warning light... Read more
Incident date: Dec 8, 2025
Back in 7/2025, I was going to a Dr appt in Chandler, Az. When I arrived in Maricopa, Az, my truck stalled at the first stop light and would not start. I went over Kraegan Auto parts and bought a battery. After about 10 days, I was having to jump start my truck for the next few days. I took the battery back and they realized that it wasn’t the battery my truck called for. So, now I have the cor... Read more
Incident date: Dec 3, 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 3, 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 3, 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: Aug 23, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, there was a loud rattling sound coming from the engine compartment, with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle jerked unexpectedly, with the check engine warning light illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated tha... Read more
Incident date: Aug 23, 2025
My vehicle was sent to the Kia dealership for service after a front-end collision there was minor body damage however the car wouldn't move so long story short a modular had to be replaced on the transmission there was multiple issues trying to program it I was told there was an issue with my computer they had to reach out to Kia manufacturer for help. I received my car back and while it was there... Read more
Crash
KIA
SPORTAGE HYBRID
(2023) — ENGINE
Dec 9, 2025
Incident date: Dec 7, 2025
I brought my 2023 Yukon in for the 6.2 GM inspection, and was told my engine was good, and the engine oil was changed. Approximately 3 weeks later the engine in the Yukon failed (seized) while I was towing my boat at 55mph, nearly causing an accident. I was able to pull the vehicle and boat to the side of the highway in a precarious location, which put me, my family and property in danger. ... Read more
KIA
SPORTAGE HYBRID
(2023) — FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Dec 9, 2025
Incident date: Dec 7, 2025
Vehicle flashed with a "check hybrid system. Stop safely" warning and then forced me to slow until my vehicle stopped - I could no longer press the gas pedal. I was on a highway and luckily was able to pull over safely before the vehicle came to a complete stop, but that was not guaranteed. I ended up being towed to a Kia Dealership where they informed me this was an issue under recall, but that r... Read more
KIA
SPORTAGE HYBRID
(2023) — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Dec 9, 2025
Incident date: Dec 7, 2025
Vehicle flashed with a "check hybrid system. Stop safely" warning and then forced me to slow until my vehicle stopped - I could no longer press the gas pedal. I was on a highway and luckily was able to pull over safely before the vehicle came to a complete stop, but that was not guaranteed. I ended up being towed to a Kia Dealership where they informed me this was an issue under recall, but that r... Read more
Incident date: Dec 9, 2025
Vehicle flashed with a "check hybrid system. Stop safely" warning and then forced me to slow until my vehicle stopped - I could no longer press the gas pedal. I was on a highway and luckily was able to pull over safely before the vehicle came to a complete stop, but that was not guaranteed. I ended up being towed to a Kia Dealership where they informed me this was an issue under recall, but that r... Read more
Incident date: Dec 9, 2025
Vehicle experiences sudden and dangerous loss of power while driving, including hesitation during acceleration, consistent with connecting-rod bearing failure risk known in this model’s GDI engine. Dealer estimate found timing and oil-flow component failures connected to internal engine damage. Vehicle is unsafe to drive and stalls/lacks power unexpectedly, creating a high risk of crash.”
Incident date: Jan 1, 2025
The frame is so rusted in my truck my mechanic said it may snap at anytime and is not safe to drive. I know Toyota tundra’s from 2000-2003 have been recalled for same reason.
Incident date: Dec 1, 2025
the transmission has been slipping for a month . I consulted with a Toyota dealer and they said the fluid was "lifetime." then without any check engine warning the Auto brake system, other systems tied to torque converter failed and check engine light came on ..... then Toyota Tustin CA performed a diagnostic test and declared car needed a replacement transmission at just 88k miles --suburban... Read more
Incident date: Oct 6, 2025
I was driving my vehicle when all of a sudden my passenger side headlight went out. I initially thought it was a light bulb I needed to fix. I turned the vehicle on after a few hours and the light was working again, but on occasion the light randomly turns off while I am driving. I looked online how to fix it and found multiple people with same issue and condensation build up which mine has witho... Read more
Incident date: Oct 6, 2025
Infotainment system is restarting itself repeatedly every 30 seconds to every few minutes.This has been going on for about 2 weeks. The component has not yet been inspected by a 3rd party.
Incident date: Oct 6, 2025
Description of the Problem: My 2018 Kia Soul has a recurring and unresolved safety issue involving sudden loss of power while driving. The check-engine light repeatedly comes on, and at times the vehicle will hesitate or lose acceleration unexpectedly, creating a risk of being unable to maintain speed in traffic. Chronology: This issue has been occurring for over a year. I have taken the vehicle ... Read more
Incident date: Feb 15, 2025
On December 4 at 8:57pm I was driving on interstate 295 doing 60 miles an hour and my car’s warning light for breaking came up for me to break like something was in front of me even though there wasn’t, this is a continuing thing going on. I reported every time it happens.
Incident date: Mar 1, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Lexus RX-450H. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (AIR BAGS); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that whenever a handbag was placed on the front passenger’s seat, the air bag warning light illuminated. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 1, 2025
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? -I have received a "Check Brake Light" warning several times now, even after replacing the bulbs. I have replaced them twice now in the past 6 months and the issue persists. I believe it to be a faulty sensor or something similar. Yes, it is available to inspect upon request. How was your safety or ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 26, 2025
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? -I have received a "Check Brake Light" warning several times now, even after replacing the bulbs. I have replaced them twice now in the past 6 months and the issue persists. I believe it to be a faulty sensor or something similar. Yes, it is available to inspect upon request. How was your safety or ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 1, 2025
I bought this car over a week ago for a good price, performed fine until I’m driving it home on the interstate and some abs/brake lights came on the dash. I enter my city and notice the brakes aren’t performing as tight as they were during the test drive. A few days later I take it to a local dealership to get it looked at. The brake actuator and pump had gone bad, causing this issue. It cost ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 9, 2025
The contact owns a 2025 Forest River Flagstaff RV equipped with a Magic Chef 21-inch Built-In Range Oven, Model Number: MCFR21TTB2. The contact stated that while his wife was cooking, the stove's glass top cover exploded into pieces and shattered in her face. No injuries were sustained, and no medical attention was received. The dealer was made aware of the failure; however, the RV was not diagnos... Read more
Incident date: Dec 9, 2025
The contact owns a 2023 Kia K5. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 25V794000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) and 25V493000 (Structure); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The local dealer was contacted, and the dealer confirmed that parts were not yet available and were on back order. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 8, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving at 55 MPH, the vehicle stalled in the middle of the expressway. The contact turned off and restarted the vehicle, and the engine started knocking significantly. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact was able to slowly pull over to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 8, 2025
The centered high mounted brake light overheated during normal vehicle operation. The plastic bulb socket and housing melted, causing the bulb to dislodge and fall into the interior of the vehicle. The bulb was extremely hot and burned holes through an interior fabric item that was stored in the rear cargo area for less than 15 minutes. There was no collision or modification involved. This created... Read more
Incident date: Oct 28, 2025
Truck was purchased Aug 2024 During first few months, I felt a shudder/vibration when either holding speed and/or slightly accelerating between 30-45 mph, usually at 1100-1300 RPM. Current Odometer 33,995 In the last month the truck has began to vibrate worse. I have a "Rumblestrip" feeling when at the same speeds. More noticeable on surface roads when following behind traffic at 30-45 mph. Gene... Read more
Incident date: Oct 28, 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: Oct 28, 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 8, 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 29, 2025
Shift to park message has appeared again and the engine will not cut off. First happened in Feb 2020, mileage was 31,143. Took to Dealer and new wiring harness was installed. Had to take back to dealer April 2020 for same problem; shifter assembly was replaced at that time. Shift to park message came back on August 2023. Took back to Dealer and shifter harness replaced again and jumper harness w... Read more
Incident date: Nov 29, 2025
For about 23,000 miles our mechanic has mentioned that the engine is burning oil. The exhaust pipe is covered in black soot. I monitor the oil level and it is always low even after oil changes with no oil leak. This has been provided to Kia with no remedy. Recently our Sorento was in a busy highway and the check engine, oil and battery lights came on and the car went into limp mode. We had the ve... Read more
Incident date: Dec 6, 2025
I experienced a complete electrical system "shut down" or failure, on November 29, 2025 while driving from Stillwater to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. It is available for inspection. However, I have replaced the battery as recommended by Quail Springs Automotive to get it back on the road again. I was driving my daughter home, and was making a right-hand turn off of Memorial onto north May avenue wh... Read more
Incident date: Dec 6, 2025
I was driving on the freeway steady at 72mph and the car suddenly accelerated on its own. It hit 90 within seconds and I had to step on the break for the car to slow down.
Incident date: Sep 22, 2025
I was driving on the freeway steady at 72mph and the car suddenly accelerated on its own. It hit 90 within seconds and I had to step on the break for the car to slow down.
Incident date: Sep 22, 2025
The safety hazard began with a pattern of ignored warnings by the authorized dealer network. On Aug 15, 2025, I brought the vehicle to Luther Kia of Bloomington for a Check Engine Light. The dealer simply cleared the code without diagnosis, failing to catch early signs of engine trouble. On Sept 22, 2025, the engine failed again. I drove the vehicle in unsafe "limp mode" to Luther Nissan Kia [XX... Read more
Incident date: Sep 22, 2025
The safety hazard began with a pattern of ignored warnings by the authorized dealer network. On Aug 15, 2025, I brought the vehicle to Luther Kia of Bloomington for a Check Engine Light. The dealer simply cleared the code without diagnosis, failing to catch early signs of engine trouble. On Sept 22, 2025, the engine failed again. I drove the vehicle in unsafe "limp mode" to Luther Nissan Kia [XX... Read more
Incident date: Sep 25, 2025
Accident Statement – Instrument Panel Cluster Failure & Collision While driving my 2025 Ford Outerbanks, the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) screen suddenly went completely black without warning. At the time of the malfunction, I was attempting to merge into traffic on my left with my left turn signal activated. Simultaneously, an 18-wheeler in the lane beside me was merging to his right. The s... Read more
Crash
1 injured
Incident date: Nov 13, 2025
Stopped at a stop sign at an intersection. Intersection is 4-way, with only a 2-way stop. After ensuring cross-traffic was clear, initiated a left turn from being stopped at the stop sign. Released the brake pedal and began to accelerate.Truck only accelerated to 5mph, and then began to roll/drift into the intersection with no power. No response from gas pedal. Drifted into intersection and was ne... Read more
Incident date: Nov 13, 2025
Vehicle: 2016 Kia Sorento, VIN [XXX] Incident Date: November 13, 2025 Incident Location: Durham, NC (3828 Guess Rd) Cause of Loss: Engine Fire, confirmed by Durham Fire Department Report (Incident #253663) as "originated from under the hood." TECHNICAL NARRATIVE & SYMPTOMS (CRITICAL FOR LIABILITY): I am filing this complaint to report a catastrophic vehicle fire that I believe is directly linked ... Read more
Fire