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 15,126 complaints for LEXUS
Incident date: Mar 16, 2025
Power lift gate will open and close by its self. I have had it looked at and the dealer said to report it as it’s a known issue and no recalls have been issued yet for this year. Have not had a fire yet on this vehicle. But was told it was leaking around the power liftgate control module.
Incident date: Mar 8, 2025
The brake booster continues to fail. I replaced this part for the second time 6 months ago, the first time was roughly 9 months before that. The failure of this part causes the brake pedal to drop to the floor making stopping tricky. I have had no accidents, no police report and no warning. No dash lights illuminate indicating a problem as well as no symptoms before the failure.
Incident date: Mar 14, 2025
Some lights come on and off without buttons being pressed. Door click. Doesn’t consistently lock or unlock. Center console turns off with no notice.
Incident date: Mar 14, 2025
Some lights come on and off without buttons being pressed. Door click. Doesn’t consistently lock or unlock. Center console turns off with no notice.
Incident date: Jan 6, 2025
I HAVE A 2014 JETTA HYBRID. MY CAR LOST POWER WHEN I TRIED TO USE IT. BROUGHT IT TO VW OF HAYWARD AND WAS TOLD IT WAS A FAULTY MECHATRON UNIT. WHICH I PAID FOR. I FOUND A RECALL ON THIS UNIT BUT FOR SOME REASON THE RECALL DIDN'T COVER MY VEHICLE. THAT ODD BECAUSE IT SAYS THAT 2013-2015 JETTA ARE BEING RECALL FOR MECHATRON FAILURES (RECALL CODE 34J6). ALL OF THE PROBLEMS DESCRIBED IN THE RECALL WE... Read more
Incident date: Mar 14, 2025
My dad was driving to work in the morning in the Tesla in the left lane of the freeway. Then the car started swerving on its own. He tried to regain control with the steering wheel but he couldn’t control it. The car wouldn’t turn when using the steering wheel and he was not using autopilot or lane assistance. He said it felt like the steering wheel and the car were not talking to each other. ... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Feb 24, 2025
My mother got in the car and as soon as the car was put on drive, the car accelerated to its max potential, but when she attempted to hit the brakes they did not respond. So max acceleration, on its own, and brakes did not work. She ended up in the hospital for 9 days suffering a broken rib, front teeth missing, they had to sew her tongue back together, both cheeks shattered, broken clavicle and s... Read more
Crash
1 injured
Incident date: Feb 24, 2025
My mother got in the car and as soon as the car was put on drive, the car accelerated to its max potential, but when she attempted to hit the brakes they did not respond. So max acceleration, on its own, and brakes did not work. She ended up in the hospital for 9 days suffering a broken rib, front teeth missing, they had to sew her tongue back together, both cheeks shattered, broken clavicle and s... Read more
Crash
1 injured
Incident date: Feb 24, 2025
When Automatic Height Control system check warning light comes ON, both LX570 traction control system and ABS behave strangely. This happened three time in one day. When the vehicle was in standing in an uphill to join the road, during acceleration, traction control system light starts to splash, vehicle would not move and hesitates. One has to drive slowly to avoid wheels spinning and making noi... Read more
Incident date: Feb 20, 2025
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Compass. The contact stated that a message that the coolant level was high was displayed on the instrument panel and immediately after the message was displayed, the vehicle failed to accelerate as needed. Additionally, the windows failed to open and close, the doors failed to lock and unlock, and there were other unstated electrical malfunctions. The contact coasted o... Read more
Incident date: Feb 20, 2025
The contact owns a 2009 BMW 335I. The contact stated that the vehicle was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V017000 (AIR BAGS); however, shortly after the vehicle was retrieved, the air bag warning light illuminated and remained illuminated. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The fail... Read more
Incident date: Feb 20, 2025
NEW 2024 GX550, less than 2 months and 3,000 miles of ownership- accelerating to 40 mph and vehicle completely shut off, jolting me forward. All lights on dash lit up, "power steering failure, engine failure, not safe to drive." It was all I could do to get it off to the shoulder of the road. Extremely dangerous. Had vehicle towed to local Lexus dealer. After 2 weeks master tech determined timing ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 4, 2025
Passenger seatbelt frayed, inside electrical goes haywire when cold weather, transmission slipping was rebuilt under warranty lasted one week and is slipping again shifting hard, B panels falling off A panel was recalled but panel wasn’t?
Incident date: Mar 5, 2025
The first thing that happened was the transmission, driveshaft, and rear end all blew at the same time while I was on the freeway. I had to swerve over and get out of the lane I was in and part of the driveshaft was still sitting in the road and cars were hitting it. There was no lights or anything until it happened. I got out of the passenger side of the vehicle and looked under the truck and the... Read more
Fire
Incident date: Feb 9, 2025
The contact owns a 2019 Ford Flex. The contact stated while reversing, the rearview camera image was upside-down. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the contact was informed that the failure was due to a factory defect, and the contact had to pay out-of-pocket for the rearview camera replacement. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact later received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number... Read more
Incident date: Mar 5, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the parking brake was independently activated. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle had an oil leak from the oil pan. The contact stated that the oil needed to be added every two days. The contact stated that the alert system warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dea... Read more
Incident date: Mar 5, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission slipped, and the vehicle jerked. The RPM fluctuated, and the engine revved, but the vehicle lost motive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was determined that the CDF cylinder needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not... Read more
Incident date: Mar 6, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 30-40 MPH, there was an abnormal tapping sound coming from the vehicle. While the vehicle was parked, the tapping sound continued. The engine and ABS warning lights were illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, hydraulic); however, the part to d... Read more
Incident date: Mar 6, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 30-40 MPH, there was an abnormal tapping sound coming from the vehicle. While the vehicle was parked, the tapping sound continued. The engine and ABS warning lights were illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, hydraulic); however, the part to d... Read more
Incident date: Feb 5, 2025
Front left and right marker lights show up as defective on the dashboard, intermittently, but the lights are working. Have seen on different forums that this is not uncommon with this vehicle. Many complaints. Tried working with Audi/USA and have followed their advice with needing a dealership assessments. I have done this on two occasions, but they said that they will not be responsible, but th... Read more
Incident date: Dec 27, 2024
The contact owns a 2003 Toyota Tundra. The contact stated while in the process of selling the vehicle, the potential buyer inspected the subframe and informed the contact that the frame was severely rusted inside and outside. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was inspected. The mechanic confirmed the failure and informed the contact that the six bolts holding the bed secur... Read more
Incident date: Feb 19, 2025
I was driving down the interstate at 70 MPh and heard a very loud pop. I was not sure where the noise came from. I drove a little further when I saw the rubber seal around windshield flapping. I pulled over and the A-PILLAR APPLIQUE TRIM had completely detached and ripped the rubber seal around window. I called the dealership and they stated there was a recall and it was safe to drive. While dri... Read more
Incident date: Jun 17, 2017
Cracked cylinder causes oil leak in 2018 Mazda CX-5. May occur in other model year CX-5 as well. Issue was inspected by an authorized dealer. Repair by Mazda not performed because vehicle was a few months past warranty expiration date. Issue with CX-5 cylinder-head are shown below: [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6... Read more
Incident date: Jun 13, 2024
Crank shaft rod bearing, engine needs to be replaced due to internal damage. Honda has recalled other VINs for 2018 Honda Pilot, but not mine. I am having the same problem as another recall already issued, and Honda is refusing to pay for engine replacement.
Incident date: Oct 1, 2023
I purchased a new Dodge Ram 1550 Big Horn in July of 2020. To date I have only 21,000 miles on this vehicle. In January of 2023, at the 12,555 mile mark, they had to install a new fuel delivery line and fuel tank because I was unable to fill the tank. This was due to the rollover valve molded into the top of the tank malfunctioning and sticking. 25 months and 9,000 more miles later, I am once agai... Read more
Incident date: Oct 1, 2023
There is an ongoing noise issue where I hear a vibration or buzzing sound coming from the headliner or sunroof area while driving at various speeds, especially on uneven pavement. I have reported this concern previously, but the technician was unable to find the cause. On February 25, 2025, a maintenance technician at Jim Hudson Lexus in Columbia, SC, inspected the issue and confirmed an excessive... Read more
Incident date: Oct 1, 2023
The automatic headlights have a significant delay before turning on when entering a dimly lit parking garage. I have adjusted various car customization settings, but the delay persists. On February 25, 2025, a maintenance technician at Jim Hudson Lexus in Columbia, SC, inspected the issue and confirmed that the headlight sensor is set to the highest sensitivity. The headlights typically take about... Read more
Incident date: Feb 26, 2025
When it rains, just a steady rain, not a downpour, the vehicle slams on the brakes trying to back up. It literally took 3-4 minutes to back out of the driveway. I was also in a parking lot trying to back out and the same issue which created a significant safety hazard with other vehicles. Research online indicates this is not an isolated issue.
Incident date: Feb 26, 2025
When it rains, just a steady rain, not a downpour, the vehicle slams on the brakes trying to back up. It literally took 3-4 minutes to back out of the driveway. I was also in a parking lot trying to back out and the same issue which created a significant safety hazard with other vehicles. Research online indicates this is not an isolated issue.
Incident date: Feb 26, 2025
There are multiple recalls on my vehicle and I am experiencing all of the recalls Inverter Failer vehicle stalls out alot. Crank shaft pulley is leaking oil and belt from the power steering maybe detached causing vehicle to stall. Inverter Assembly causing the vehicle to stall and become non drivable. Floor carpet cover and retention clips. And my brake master cylinder leaking fluid causing major ... Read more
Incident date: Sep 1, 2024
Subject: Complaint Regarding Recurring Engine Failure in 2021 GMC Sierra AT4 Dear National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, I am writing to formally express my concern regarding recurring engine failures in my 2021 GMC Sierra AT4 (6.2L engine). At 23,000 miles, the vehicle suffered a complete breakdown due to failure of cylinder #8, lifters, and push rods. General Motors covered the repair... Read more
Incident date: Dec 20, 2023
I am writing to formally express my frustration and deep concern regarding Recall 94B, which affects my 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude and currently has no available remedy. This recall, as confirmed by Fox Chrysler Jeep in Southfield, MI, directly impacts critical safety features, including the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) and other key functions essential for the safe operation of my vehicle.... Read more
Incident date: Feb 19, 2025
When I first start the car the engine revs and the tachometer or the RPM reader stays above 2 while reving for over a minute which is too long. The needle eventually goes to 1 but it seems like when I change gears to drive it "hits hard" then almost skids out and almost glides at times. It doesn't happen every single time but it happens often enough where I don't feel safe driving. The steerin... Read more
Incident date: Oct 15, 2024
I had to pay out of pocket NHSTA safety recall service for water pump replacement and mandatory vehicle safety software update. This is wrong and I demand investigations and refunds.
Incident date: Jan 22, 2025
—2016 Ram 1500 with 50,000 miles—ABS brake light and brake light came on. 2023 Took Ram into dealership to have it fixed and was told that the ABS module was out and that a new one would need to be ordered. Dealership said that they are on back order and I must pay for half of it before they order. I paid them to order it but it is still back ordered. Was told this is a common problem and shou... Read more
Incident date: Oct 27, 2024
We have been experiencing multiple electrical and mechanical issues with our brand new 2025 Lincoln Aviator since we bought it approximately 4 months ago. The car frequently fails to start, with at least ten or more instances of this problem. We have taken it to the dealership two or three times, but despite their claims that the issue has been fixed, the problem recurs within a week or two from p... Read more
Incident date: Oct 27, 2024
We were driving from another part of town back to our home on a very busy road, when our 2024 Yukon Denali Ultimate stopped working. My wife, who was driving, was able to turn onto a side road and stop the vehicle on the side of the road. The SUV would not start at that point. It was towed via a flatbed trailer to Ray Miller GMC, where it was determined that the engine had seized. I bought it ... Read more
Incident date: Oct 27, 2024
Truck in front had hit brakes so I had tapped mine. Went back to cruise control to maintain distance. I hit the brakes at 0:00:15 when I realized the car was not slowing down. The brakes were palpitating and fighting me the car was not stopping. I could not go right as a car was to my right and if I went left the impact would have been on my daughter’s side and another car was coming on that si... Read more
Crash
1 injured
Incident date: Feb 25, 2025
Ptu burnt out less than 53k miles. Molding on passenger side broke off while driving 60mph struck another vehicle causing to other vehicle to leave road. Thank God no one was injured. This thing could have killed a motorcycle driver. Checked online and there are thousands of reports of same molding breaking off while driving.ford tn# does not recognize and disconnects call.
Crash
Incident date: Dec 22, 2024
My Mercedes gle350 2021 is having a cylinder misfire. I had the repairs done last February. Carlton Mercedes acknowledged this is a known issue with this car. Did some googling and saw how big of an issue this is in this car. Repairs were made and now a year later cylinder misfire again! My neighbor has the same car but 2022 having the same issue currently. This needs to be recalled. Mercedes need... Read more
Incident date: Feb 21, 2025
In July 2024 all the cameras on the Tesla Model S except the rear stopped working after a failed software update. This meant that all of the driver assistance systems as well as GPS, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, forward collision warning etc stopped working. The lack of availability of this system meant that the car no longer had any advanced safety fea... Read more
Incident date: Feb 5, 2025
When I park and attempt to turn off my truck, the key will not turn completely all the way so I can take it out!!! Takes MULTIPLE TIMES which is EXTREMELY INCOVENIENT
Incident date: Jan 10, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Edge. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the vehicle was started, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with coolant intrusion and engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was mad... Read more
Incident date: Feb 15, 2025
What happened? While driving my 2025 KIA Niro on [XXX] , I stopped at a red light behind another vehicle. Suddenly, my car was rear-ended by another vehicle, causing a significant impact that pushed my car forward into the vehicle in front. The seat belts deployed but I sustained a broken nose from hitting the steering wheel. My daughter and I were taken to the hospital for treatment. Component ... Read more
Crash
2 injured
Incident date: Jan 18, 2025
Major throttle response issues. Long delay when pressing accelerator, and when under heavy acceleration, if you let off the gas because of an obstacle, the truck continues to apply propulsion. Both issues could create an unsafe situation or cause a collision
Incident date: Feb 10, 2025
Water Pump Failure (Campaign Number 24V499000) Door Handles (Campaign Number 24V466000) No answer/fix from Fisker, need recall to get fixed
Incident date: Nov 6, 2023
Acceleration decreased randomly while starting from a dead stop. Loss of power when trying to pull away from the line