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: Jun 22, 2024
I was driving and hood flew up and hit the windshield and caused it to cave inward despite hood not being popped since April. Dealership confirmed that hood was not popped that day according to censors and codes that were seen. I was unable to see and it could have caused a wreck and serious injury or worse the windshield almost fell on me and into my car with my one year old baby. Dealer confir... Read more
Incident date: Jun 18, 2024
The contact owns a 2013 Ford F-150. While the contact's wife was driving 70 MPH, the vehicle independently downshifted to first gear with the transmission warning light illuminated. The contact's wife was nearly rear-ended due to the failure. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and was diagnosed with a defective wheel speed sensor. The contact stated that the vehicle was under an Exte... Read more
Incident date: Jun 23, 2024
The contact called on behalf of his grandparents who owned a 2022 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while his grandfather was driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to stop as intended. The contact stated that the brakes finally responded; however, the rear wheels continued to spin for another 30 seconds. The contact stated that the failure occ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 1, 2017
I was driving down the road at 70 mph and my 10R80 transmission rapidly downshifted to 1st gear. This is on top of the erratic shifting and driveline vibration from the CDF clutches which ford said tough luck on getting repaired/warrantied after they announced they fixed with a redesign, but also after being told "nothing is wrong" until after the warranty has gone out.
Incident date: Jun 1, 2017
The contact owns a 2018 Ford EcoSport. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V905000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact... Read more
Incident date: Dec 21, 2023
I was driving on the freeway in Stockton California and I entered into a connecting on-ramp curve going about 30mph and a lady hit me from behind on the passenger side going 65mph as she was trying to change lanes to get behind me and my car instantly speeded up spinning out of control Into a gully filled with stored freeway construction materials such as poles . The car kept spinning out of contr... Read more
Crash
2 injured
Incident date: Dec 21, 2023
The contact owns a 2020 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked and attempting to reverse, the rear-view camera image display screen was not working as intended, increasing the risk of crashing into an object behind the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or local dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. T... Read more
Incident date: Dec 21, 2023
Camshaft phaser failure. We had code P051B which led to sensor replacement. Shortly after cold start engine rattle. Suspect was cam/phaser from web investigating. At 50k miles this should be covered. Ford wants $6,000 to change VCT, Timing belt & faulty cam phasers. Ford acknowledged in 2021 their fault, but this was never issued as recall. We never got ANY letter from Ford. For people like u... Read more
Incident date: Jun 25, 2024
The contact owns a 2019 GMC Acadia. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, she noticed that the engine caught on fire with no warning light illuminated. The fire was put out by the Chicago Fire Department and after the vehicle was inspected the cause of the fire was determined as a failure with the electrical system. A police report was filed with the Chicago Police Department and a rep... Read more
Fire
Incident date: Jun 10, 2024
After starting vehicle, was running very rough - engine light came on flashing and Electronic Throttle Control light. Towed vehicle to dealership and was told "Dead miss on cylinder #2, plug and coil fouled, no compression on cylinder #2 - needs motor replacement". Dealer was not returning calls, called Jeep and currently waiting to hear how they will handle. Warranty expired 11/23 but vehicle on... Read more
Incident date: May 24, 2024
DEF pump failed around 62500 miles. Ram sent emission recall notice 67a that states they will reimburse for costs incurred if issue was before recall. Submitted paperwork and they denied due to me replacing the part myself after buying parts from Dodge dealer. I paid $1687.44. Going to a dealer SHOULDN'T be a requirement
Incident date: May 24, 2024
2019 Ford Escape w/ 30,000 miles. Regularly maintained, no accidents, no previous owners. Engine coolant leak which resulted in the dealership stating we need a new engine for $13,500. Cylinders were filled with oil and car was not drivable. This is relevant to the ongoing class action lawsuit for EcoBoost engines. We are 3 weeks past our 5-year warranty and were told we are out of luck. Ford is n... Read more
Incident date: Jun 3, 2024
The contact owns a 2008 Lexus LS460. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle and depressing the brake pedal, there was a knocking and ticking sound coming from the brakes. Additionally, the brake light, traction control light, and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The ABS, Brakes, and VSC messages were displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local mechanic who diagnosed tha... Read more
Incident date: Jun 3, 2024
Kia has failed to provide proper protection for their radiator on their Sorento and Telluride models. There are many many many reports online of these radiators sustaining damage which should not have occurred, and Kia refuses to cover any of these repairs under any type of warranty. In my example, my brand new 2024 Sorento with 1,300 miles overheated and dumped all of its coolant due to what the... Read more
Incident date: Jun 3, 2024
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle started to idle rough with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with coolant intrusion into the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified... Read more
Incident date: May 17, 2024
Rear backup camera will sometimes either be distorted or have a black screen while in reverse. This is a safety hazard as dodge challengers have large blind spots and makes it difficult to see when backing up without the rear camera. This has almost caused me to hit another car and pedestrians as it's hard to see them due to the blind spots and not having the assistance of the camera. While drivin... Read more
Incident date: Jan 1, 2024
The dashboard is separating where the airbag is on the passenger side and also the driver side which could deploy the airbag
Incident date: Jun 14, 2024
The contact owns a 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the front driver's seat headrest deployed independently without impact. The check engine and TPMS warning lights were illuminated. No injuries were sustained, and no medical attention was received. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was no... Read more
Incident date: Sep 23, 2022
The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Golf. The contact stated there was fuel leaking from the charcoal canister. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V110000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall r... Read more
Incident date: May 15, 2024
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the power train warning light illuminated. The contact stated while driving, the vehicle hesitated to accelerate. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer and was informed there was coolant intrusion in the engine, and the engine needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failur... Read more
Incident date: Jun 11, 2024
Very loud noise coming from high pressure fuel pump and intake hose (connector) is vibration rapidly. Had to replace high pressure fuel pump. American Honda Motor Co., Inc. was contacted and no help. Case #14731590
Incident date: Jun 11, 2024
The car antenna cover flew off while I was driving. I was not speeding. Car has never been in an accident. Car has not gone through a car wash. This could have hit the car behind me had they been closer.
Incident date: Jun 3, 2024
Continue to get Service ABS and Service Electronic Braking System warning lights. ABS does not work when warning lights are on returns to normal when warning is off. no other detected issues with the braking system. It is displaying code: C0020-01
Incident date: Jun 1, 2024
The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Highlander. 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 the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was not made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed th... Read more
Incident date: Feb 1, 2023
I was driving on the Highway and when I stopped at a red light the vehicle stopped working. I was not able to put it in neutral to be able to move it to the side of the road. I had several warning messages while i was on the phone with 911. I was lucky enough that police came to assist me within minutes since I was at an intersection of two highways. I could've been killed or caused a bad accident... Read more
Incident date: Feb 1, 2023
Completely unannounced and sudden brake failure, which caused a failure in the traction control and ABS system as well. Most likely brake actuator pump failure.
Incident date: Sep 4, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Fusion Energi. The contact stated while depressing the brake pedal, the brake pedal failed to return to the original position; or would not respond immediately and effectively to stop the vehicle. The brake warning light was illuminated. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was later taken to a local independent mec... Read more
Incident date: Sep 4, 2023
A water leak has ruined TWO power liftgate control modules. The water leak probably comes from the roof or driver rear window welds. I replaced one module two months ago and the new one has also malfunctioned due to water intrusion. This causes the liftgate to be stuck open or closed and could potentially open when driving!
Incident date: May 6, 2024
The contact owns a 2013 Chevrolet Volt. The contact stated while driving 50 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power with the check engine warning light and low oil pressure warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where a diagnostic test result was undisclosed; however, the contact was informed that the vehicle needed an ASC high-voltage battery to be replaced. The vehicle was not... Read more
Incident date: Mar 4, 2024
The contact owns a 2021 Ford Ecosport. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 60 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power. The contact released the accelerator pedal and then depressed the pedal again, and the vehicle drove as intended. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V905000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however... Read more
Incident date: Mar 15, 2024
2018 mazda started smoking from under hood and noticed a burning oil smell. Took to mechanic and was told engine head gasket has a huge Crack. Car only has 22k on it and never been in any accident. All appropriate preventative services are up to date. There was no indication light no warning light nothing to identify why the car was leaking oil and smoking until it was looked at. This has multiple... Read more
Incident date: May 1, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle shuddered significantly. The contact stated that the vehicle stopped shuddering while shifted into neutral(N). Additionally, the contact stated that while driving and depressing the accelerator pedal, the failure recurred, and the vehicle jerked significantly. The low oil pressure warning light ... Read more
Incident date: May 31, 2024
It was regular morning on memorial day and I had not used the car all weekend since I really dont drive unless it to and back from work. I started the engine like would any other day and the car began to shake out of nowhere. The check engine went off, the yield sign went off and the traction control went off. I thought maybe it was time to change my brakes because the dealership had recommended ... Read more
Incident date: May 31, 2024
I want to file a complaint regarding the recall issued for my car. I am concerned that Genesis has not issued a resolution at all and suggests parking the car. If it's unsafe and could ignite itself on fire, a remedy should be issued immediately. Offer us a different model and year or fix the issue. This is people's lives at stake.
Incident date: May 31, 2024
Sunroof on Kia Telluride will not close completely. Will begin closing and then will not set down into the closed position.
Incident date: Jun 4, 2024
The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Elantra. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) and the vehicle was taken to the local dealer for recall repair; however, the dealer informed the contact that they could not perform the recall repair unless the manufacturer confirmed that the vehicle was covered under factory warranty. The contact stated tha... Read more
Incident date: Jun 2, 2024
When installed per specifications, the seat appears safe. It does not move more than an inch. However, if even a pound of pressure is applied towards the rear of the vehicle, the seat inverts. There is an insufficient fulcrum with the back of the seat. I have a 2017 GMC Terrain. This is exceptionally dangerous, because when pulling only left and right, the seat appears secure. I, for example... Read more
Incident date: May 29, 2024
Timing chain failure while driving due to excessive oil consumption that General Motors and mechanics/dealerships are well aware of. In between oil changes, oil is known to have burned 2-3 quarts leaving not enough oil to be pumped on to the chains and rails which leads to unknown failure. No "low oil" indication of the vehicle. Just about every one of these engines that are manufactured are havin... Read more
Incident date: Apr 26, 2024
The car seat will not tighten and tips over during turns. Followed directions from manual but still is very loose.
Incident date: Apr 26, 2024
The car seat will not tighten and tips over during turns. Followed directions from manual but still is very loose.
Incident date: May 30, 2024
I’ve approximately the last 45 thousand miles, Lexus dealers have replaced the brake actuator and other components of the brake system on this vehicle at least 6 times due to noise issues. Lexus has stated that this is not a safety issue, I have an open ticket with Lexus, but yesterday I had to slam on the brakes and did not get nearly the response that should have come right away. There are no ... Read more
Incident date: May 30, 2024
The contact owns a 2012 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that the air bag warning light had been illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was scanned and diagnosed with DTC code: B1B02; for a failure with the driver’s side air bag. Additionally, the clock spring test had failed internally. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaire... Read more
Incident date: May 30, 2024
The Windshield of my outback Subaru 2019 has cracked two times since I purchased the vehicle. Not caused by propelled items, accidents or vandalism, instead, these cracks originated from the center bottom part of the windshield suddenly and spread upwards.
Incident date: May 19, 2024
Throttle fails to respond for a brief but serious amount of time. When pulling into traffic, instead of accelerating the engine remains at an idle and the car moves forward slowly. I push on the throttle trying to make it go. Then it takes hold and the car leaps forward. Safety: Normal power is delayed as the car moves into traffic. Oncoming traffic must slow to prevent an accident. The deale... Read more
Incident date: May 30, 2024
Pirelli Scorpion Zero All Season 255/45 R20 105T After about a month of owning my car, I noticed brown stains on my tires which made them look very old and worn and dirty. I tried washing them off and the stains kept coming back. I emailed the manufacturer and they told me that the browning on the tires was a normal reaction to extreme UV exposure or it could happen over time. I pointed this ou... Read more
Incident date: May 30, 2024
Pirelli Scorpion Zero All Season 255/45 R20 105T After about a month of owning my car, I noticed brown stains on my tires which made them look very old and worn and dirty. I tried washing them off and the stains kept coming back. I emailed the manufacturer and they told me that the browning on the tires was a normal reaction to extreme UV exposure or it could happen over time. I pointed this ou... Read more
Incident date: Oct 1, 2017
My 2021 Durango is suffering from the a burnt out racetrack light. This is an manufacturer issue and is common across all Durango's with the racetrack tail light, I hope that Dodge issue a recall to fix this problem since it's this common, my vehicle is only 3 years old.
Incident date: Oct 1, 2017
Oil consumption issue. My mechanic referred me to Kia because oil consumption. I would bring car in because oil light and no oil in car and had oil change only 1000 miles. Kia did 2 checks one at 1000 miles and one at 500 miles and oil consumption failed both times. Now I have to pay $686 for oil combustion cleaning even though I am being told this is more than likely going to have engine repl... Read more
Incident date: Dec 26, 2023
2005 e500 mercedes benz,after full tank of gas I filled. I noticed very strong gas inside my car and outside. It can catch on fired. cause cancer and lung issues.