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 15,319 complaints for LEXUS
Incident date: May 1, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Focus. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle was slow to respond. The contact stated that the gears were lagging while shifting. While driving at unknown speeds, the vehicle shut down. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact noticed that the coolant reservoir was empty. The... Read more
Incident date: Aug 23, 2023
Vehicle has been misfiring at interstate Rt 95 putting driver at very high risk of a crash. This vehicle has been service for this problem and also for a coolant leak 04 times at dealership. They were unable to find any problem. Right now, this vehicle is at dealership, and they said, engine has a blown head gasket (several vehicles from VW model Taos and Jetta from 2022 and 2023 has the same issu... Read more
Incident date: Aug 23, 2023
The contact owns a 2015 Ford F-150. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact stated that the vehicle was almost involved in a crash due to the failure. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the roadway. The contact stated that his wife and minor children were passengers insi... Read more
Incident date: Jul 19, 2024
Something under the hood caught on fire while I was driving with my son, and I pulled over. I was stopped at a red light when I first noticed smoke when I was looking in the rearview mirror. The gauges and lights never indicated anything was wrong, which I was looking at while the car was smoking and I was trying to find a place to pull over. There was smoke billowing up from the hood and all aro... Read more
Fire
Incident date: Jul 5, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the check engine warning light illuminated. Once the warning light was illuminated, the vehicle shuddered and hesitated while depressing the accelerator pedal. The vehicle entered LIMP Mode. The contact pulled over and restarted the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the mechanic linked the... Read more
Incident date: Jul 26, 2024
Unknown, the air bags in the suspension popped during driving
Incident date: Jul 15, 2024
The affected component is the design of the cruise control engagement button, and yes it is available for inspection. While the vehicle is below a certain (unknown) speed, if the cruise control engagement button is pressed, the cruse control engages at a relatively high rate of speed, and the vehicle lurches forward. This is especially problematic due to the design of the switch, which is a protr... Read more
Incident date: Feb 11, 2003
The contact’s mother owns a 2014 Ford Escape. While the contact's mother was driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with coolant leak and engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provi... Read more
Incident date: Feb 11, 2003
Brand new owner - first owner at time of lease/finance terms and conditions. Car accelerated numerous times during ownership that caused harm to both my young son and I life, placed us in harms way and accident occurred in California due to faulty emissions, acceleration out of control, and braking problems. This Lexus was dangerous, unreliable, caused mental and emotional issue coupled with an... Read more
Crash
2 injured
Incident date: Feb 11, 2003
Brand new owner - first owner at time of lease/finance terms and conditions. Car accelerated numerous times during ownership that caused harm to both my young son and I life, placed us in harms way and accident occurred in California due to faulty emissions, acceleration out of control, and braking problems. This Lexus was dangerous, unreliable, caused mental and emotional issue coupled with an... Read more
Crash
2 injured
Incident date: Oct 12, 2006
When Apple Carplay is utilized the operator's phone is muted all though they are unaware of this until notified whereas to correct the call must be disconnected then reconnected. This happens continuously and dealer denied any problem and blamed all kinds of other culprits. Upon contacting Apple then Subaru Corporation Headquarters we have discovered that this a problem for many of these models. S... Read more
Incident date: Oct 12, 2006
TRUCK IS ACTING LIKE IT IS IN NEUTRAL SOMETIMES WHILE DRIVING. WILL REV SUPER HIGH WHEN GOING DOWN THE HIGHWAY AT 60, AS WELL AS NOT GOING FROM A STAND STILL. SHIFTING USING THE MANUAL MODE DOES NOT HELP IT AT ALL, AS IT STILL HAS THE SAME ISSUES. TO MAKE A LONG STORY SHORT, THE TRUCK IS HAVING HARD SHIFTS AND COMES OUT OF GEAR WHILE MOVING AND STOPPED.
Incident date: Oct 12, 2006
2017 CIVIC AC INSPECTION FOUND THAT THE AC EVAPORATOR ASSEMBLY FAILED AND THE CAR ONLY 36,000 MILES ONLY, NO WARRANTY BY HONDA AND THE AC HAS FAILED 4 TIMES AFTER THE RECALL FOR AC CONDENSER. NEED HELP TO MAKE HONDA HELD LIABILITY FOR FAIL AC COMPONENTS SINCE IT HAS BEEN TOO MANY FAILURE WITH THEIR CAR'S AC SYSTEM
Incident date: Jul 22, 2024
[XXX], while driving on [XXX], check engine light came on with reduced propulsion warning. Continued driving to destination without incidence. Did not drive again until [XXX]. [XXX] while driving using "hold" method of propulsion using internal combustion engine, check engine light remained on, after the engine warmed up, all of the sudden, there was a noticeable reduction of power, followed short... Read more
Incident date: Oct 1, 2023
The contact owns a 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 2500. The contact stated while driving approximately 5 MPH and turning into the driveway, the power steering and braking system malfunctioned. The contact stated that the steering wheel became difficult to turn in either direction and the brake pedal had extended to the floorboard while depressed and the vehicle would not immediately stop. Upon inspectio... Read more
Incident date: Oct 1, 2023
All of the ADAS along with the brakes of my vehicle fail. The dealership failed to inform me of the recalls prior to purchase. The dealership in town shows all of the parts in stock in their parts department but claim not to have any parts available. When I called, I was given the runaround then sent to a voicemail. When I showed up to the dealership they stated they can only order certain amount ... Read more
Incident date: Jul 21, 2024
The contact owns a 2018 Honda Pilot. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000 (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 repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was... Read more
Incident date: Jun 11, 2024
BOTH ACCESS doors are opening in transit along with pass thru baggage storage doors this has been brought to the attention of the manufacturer and the selling dealership We have had to tape the doors shut just to get somewhere safe These problems started shortly after purchasing its been back to the factory for repairs where they found abnormal frame flex / failure ,we were told additional frame... Read more
Incident date: Jun 11, 2024
The vehicle vibrates excessively when shifting into Drive or Reverse (rough idle). Additionally, the vehicle lacks acceleration/power when driving in slightly uphill roads, creating a hazard for nearby drivers. There were no check engine lights and the issue first appeared at approx. 84,000 miles. The vehicle was diagnosed at a Ford dealership and the issue was determined to be the torque converte... Read more
Incident date: Jun 11, 2024
Driving down the road about 25 miles an hour, slowed further to take a left turn when the power sreering suddenly gave out. The steering wheel became extremly difficult to turn and resulted in me slowing to a crawl to safely make the turn. If cars were near there could have been a colision.
Incident date: Jul 16, 2024
Car stopped dead with a total power failure in the left lane on [XXX] between NJ/NY. there was no warning light or any other prior notification to attempt to take evasive action. This was at night with other vehicles traveling at high speed on the road as well. Lucky to be alive. The vehicle was towed into the Jeep dealer on Rt 18 in New Jersey and they returned it saying they had applied a "soft... Read more
Incident date: Jul 16, 2024
Car stopped dead with a total power failure in the left lane on [XXX] between NJ/NY. there was no warning light or any other prior notification to attempt to take evasive action. This was at night with other vehicles traveling at high speed on the road as well. Lucky to be alive. The vehicle was towed into the Jeep dealer on Rt 18 in New Jersey and they returned it saying they had applied a "soft... Read more
Incident date: Jul 14, 2024
Steering Defective - Do Not Drive Vehicle warning on cluster. Almost impossible to turn steering wheel. Thank goodness did not happen at highway speed. Only 50k miles. YMM not one in the extended warranty that was offered by Audi with this issue. Needed $4k whole new steering rack assembly which was on its 8th revision. Other mult posts with same issue. Audi should expand their help with this issu... Read more
Incident date: Feb 2, 2024
I bought a LS2 motorcycle Helmet in a local shop on 06/26/24 to be a passenger on a motorcycle ride. While removing the lining and installing a communication system I discovered the foam was cracked on the posterior area of the helmet. The edges of the polystyrene were uneven. The local shop has a NO return NO exchange policy for helmets. I returned the very next day and showed the findings to the... Read more
Incident date: Feb 2, 2024
Dealer diagnostic performed and found that the multipurpose camera internal electronic failure has occurred (report attached). This camera controls the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), automatic headlights and high beams, Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Collision Mitigation System, Road Departure Mitigation System. This issue first began in March 2023 and occurs all of the time. I brought the vehicle t... Read more
Incident date: Feb 2, 2024
Dealer diagnostic performed and found that the multipurpose camera internal electronic failure has occurred (report attached). This camera controls the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), automatic headlights and high beams, Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Collision Mitigation System, Road Departure Mitigation System. This issue first began in March 2023 and occurs all of the time. I brought the vehicle t... Read more
Incident date: Jul 15, 2024
On 1/18/23, I was driving my 2022 E-tron on a roadway that had no center lane markings. I had my seatbelt and cruise control on. I was traveling at 34mph straight on the right side of the roadway. Suddenly, and without warning, my car took control, drove off the road to the right, and crashed into a tree. I suffered severe injuries, including but not limited to, loss of consciousness, concuss... Read more
Crash
Fire
1 injured
Incident date: Jul 6, 2024
Components that failed: -2019 & 2023 Entire headlight assembly 2x - with continuous wiring in headlight that must be adjusted before every drive. -2021 Internal lighting to illuminate the gear shift, which no longer works. -2021 Heater constantly squeals like a pig and blows every fuse, 😑 once the several fuse boxes were located. -2017 Engine revs up to 3k-4k rpm's while driving a steady 40... Read more
Incident date: Jul 15, 2024
ABS module constantly going off and removes 4 wheel drive, parking assist, traction control, and and brakes
Incident date: Jul 14, 2024
The rear backup lights don’t work due to the defective footwell control module. This is a symptom of the defective FCM. It’s been well over a year and Mini hasn’t had the parts. Very worrisome when our young daughter is backing up and the lights are out!
Incident date: Jul 12, 2024
Vehicle is dealer to address issues about steering rack failure and control system (speedometer screen and Intelligent touch screen system) blanking. Two weeks ago I nearly crashed into a car in front of me because the car became unresponsive.
Incident date: Jul 13, 2024
Brake lights keep failing after three months, have gone through multiple bulbs and harnesses. Right side will blow and then it switches to the left side.
Incident date: Jul 1, 2024
I have a 2019 Chrysler Pacifica that has had several issues since I purchased it. The Start Stop System warning lamp comes on and off, and my check engine light is on. The van is barely driveable, it shudders, stalls, and is a major safety concern for my family. I use this van to transport my 3 young children around, and I never know when it is going to stall. It has completely lost power on the h... Read more
Incident date: Jul 1, 2024
The contact owns a 2011 BMW 750LI. The contact stated that the vehicle was parked next to the house with the engine turned off for approximately one hour before suddenly smoke was present coming from under the hood of the vehicle. The contact opened the hood and discovered flames coming from the ECM wire harness. The contact used a bucket of water to extinguish the flames. The cause of the fire wa... Read more
Fire
Incident date: Jul 3, 2024
Pressure plate replaced twice and still not working with only 27301 miles. Went in for routine oil change no problems during the last warranty oil change things start to change. Returned to the dealership to express problem report back oil needed top off. Checked for recalls none reported. Truck continued to drive funny popping out of gear when driving and speed decrease while driving on the inter... Read more
Incident date: Jul 8, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Buick Enclave. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V334000 (Air Bags) 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 made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced ... Read more
Incident date: Jul 8, 2024
The contact owns a 2013 GMC Terrain. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V137000 (Exterior Lighting) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. Several local dealers were contacted; however, the parts for the recall repair were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. ... Read more
Incident date: Oct 12, 2022
a/c blower fan blowing irregular cutting out and returning to blow. eventually stopped and replaced the blower, still not working. took to local mechanic pressed on fuses and relays and blower worked for a day. took to another shop to get second opinion and to repair issue. same thing checked fuses and said vehicle was working as planed. 1 day later same issue no air. returned to same shop to re ... Read more
Incident date: Sep 16, 2023
When leaving work last night, a warning appeared saying 'Service Charging System Vehicle May Stall' and shortly after another showed "Battery Saver Active" so I went to my local auto parts store and had the battery replaced for $300. The gentleman also ran a test on the alternator and it came back with a failure on the voltage regulator but all others were good. I drove home hoping drive cycles wo... Read more
Incident date: Jul 5, 2019
The contact owns a 2018 Honda Civic. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V215000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); 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 made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufa... Read more
Incident date: Jun 1, 2024
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Fusion. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the steering wheel seized and became difficult to steer. The contact slowed down and the vehicle was parked in a parking lot. The contact stated that the "Driver Assist Failure" message was displayed. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 2, 2024
Coolant intrusion - engine needs to be replaced.
Incident date: Jun 22, 2024
While driving on the highway the 2022 Wagoneer flashed an error on the front dash that read "Adaptive Cruise Control Unavailable" within seconds of this error "Cruise Control not Available" error also flashed. Then the vehicle started to decelerate on its own. The vehicle would not accelerate with the gas pedal completely depressed. And continued to decelerate. We were able to safely, exit the h... Read more
Incident date: Jun 18, 2024
Cam Phasers failing Rough running and poor acceleration Problem has been confirmed by a dealer Vehicle has not been inspected by manufacture, police or insurance No warning light on, but grinding when cold start. This is the second time it’s occurred! We had it fixed prior about 20,000 miles ago. I called Ford Customer service and they directed me to the NHTSA.
Incident date: Jun 23, 2024
VW CarNet module 75 emergency call module and communication unit is "faulty needs replaced". DTC is B20004B and DTC B14D796 "internal malfunction of the module. Needs replaced." I own 3 VWs and this Module keep failing in our VWs this is major Safty concern for me and my Family this service calls 911 and give gps location in an event of an accident and VW is refusing to do a recall on this all th... Read more
Incident date: Jun 1, 2017
When parking car in garage, placed vehicle in park, then turned vehicle off, received a message on dash " SHIFT TO PARK". The car was in park. Even though the engine was off, it would not allow radio, or lights to shut off until this message goes off. Some times it takes several minutes for message to go out. I have taken to GM dealership, and was told shifter assembly needs replaced ($500... Read more
Incident date: Jun 1, 2017
When parking car in garage, placed vehicle in park, then turned vehicle off, received a message on dash " SHIFT TO PARK". The car was in park. Even though the engine was off, it would not allow radio, or lights to shut off until this message goes off. Some times it takes several minutes for message to go out. I have taken to GM dealership, and was told shifter assembly needs replaced ($500... 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: 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