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.

2,245,377 Total Complaints

140,173 Reported Crashes

56,794 Reported Fires

8,580 Reported 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

How to Read NHTSA Consumer Complaints › How NHTSA Investigations Work › Used Car: 7 Recall Checks to Run First › The Takata Airbag Recall: Full Story › OBD-II Codes Explained › All Articles ›

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Showing 33,654 complaints for MERCEDES-BENZ

Incident date: Nov 27, 2023

The contact owns 2016 GMC Acadia. 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 made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was ... Read more

Incident date: Mar 15, 2023

Unknown the light just popped on asking me to service power steering now

Incident date: Nov 6, 2023

Significant vibration in the steering wheel when braking between 40-50 mph. It was reported to the dealer and "fixed" but just had it "fixed" for the 4th time. The vibration in the steering wheel is alarming and disconcerting to say the least. No warning lamps or other indications were present any of the times this has been experienced. After each "fix" the timeframe/mileage between occurrences... Read more

Incident date: Feb 12, 2022

At slow speeds, multiple times, I have had the truck completely have an electrical failure and the engine shut off. I have replaced the negative battery cable and ensured all connections are good. This has happened on streets when turning and in parking lots. When this happens all of the screens in the truck flicker and the service stabilitrack light comes on and then everything goes out, to inclu... Read more

Incident date: Nov 24, 2023

The lever on the gas door dosen't closed all they causing the check engine to light up The code shows a vapor leaking

Incident date: Sep 7, 2023

The clutch. I was driving down the freeway and the clutch went out. Yes, Champion Jeep Dodge confirm the clutch system went out. Yes, I was told they do not cover the clutch. There was no one he signed symptoms or problems. I did take it back to AutoNation on 2 other occasion complaining about the brakes and the emergency. I have had this vehicle less than 7 months and had nothing but problems. ... Read more

Incident date: Sep 15, 2023

On two occasion vehicle abruptly shuts down leaving me with no control of vehicle. 1st incident , i was turning corner when car made a loud screeching noise and completely shut down ,i had no control over breaks or steering. Car sat for several hours before i could start it up, i did attempt to drive it down the street. I called to have vehicle looked at by dealership. They were unable to duplicat... Read more

Incident date: Sep 26, 2023

The bolt the holds the rear axle/hub on the 9.75 HD rear-end sheared off. This is an ongoing issue with their rear-end.

Incident date: Sep 26, 2023

The bolt the holds the rear axle/hub on the 9.75 HD rear-end sheared off. This is an ongoing issue with their rear-end.

Incident date: Sep 26, 2023

C0020 - ABS Teves/TRW Recirculation Pump General Electric Failure Error Intermittent. Approx. Dated Occured Nov. 15 2023. ABS Module and Traction control goes off-line intermittently during drive tests effecting ones ability to stop safely and prevents ABS pulsating Hydraulic braking when towing locking up vehicle brakes effecting driver and adjacent traffic/pedestrian safety. Vehicle is currently... Read more

Incident date: Sep 21, 2023

The truck had an airbag malfunction notice on the information center. We took the truck to the dealer and was told that it was an electrical problem with the airbags. That the only way to have it covered under warranty was for the vehicle to be under the bumper to bumper warranty. The truck at the time the mileage was 39844. We had the truck fixed since it was a safety issue. It cost $420+ to fix ... Read more

Incident date: Oct 3, 2023

Vehicle will randomly display multiple warning lights- usually starting with the braking system, until all warnings are triggered. This has happened about 10 times so far. Happens in a variety of driving situations. When car is parked, it then requires multiple presses on start button to turn the car off. Every time this happens the rear lift gate is completely disabled and unable to open. About ... Read more

Incident date: Nov 10, 2023

Automatic Braking system has almost caused a rear-end collision 5 times, because it thinks a shadow is an object. We’ve brought the car to the dealership but they told us twice that they can’t replicate the problem. That doesn’t change the issue. I don’t want to wait until we have a collision and have to go through physical therapy and repairs to address this. Front headlights are blindin... Read more

Incident date: Nov 16, 2023

Low Beam Headlights degraded over the time to the point that driving at night became unsafe. Border line between lighted and dark road surface non exist. Replacing halogen bulbs has not solved the issue.

Incident date: Oct 24, 2023

The contact owns a 2022 Nissan Sentra. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH, the front passenger’s side axle detached. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the failure was due to a fractured axle and wheel bearing. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and determined that... Read more

Incident date: Nov 15, 2023

The contact owns a 2019 Kia Soul. The contact stated while driving at approximately 30–40 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and the contact was informed that the vehicle was not covered under warranty. The failure mileage was 10,500.

Incident date: Nov 19, 2023

Truck has 15500 miles on it. ABS and electronic braking system light comes on and off randomly. Causing me to lose traction control, cruise control and ABS

Incident date: Nov 19, 2023

I have notice for some time now that I have been getting oil changes done before my scheduled time. For example, I got my oil changed August 25, 2023, at 66403 mileages. According to the return for service sticker next service date is February 25, 2024, at 71403 mileages. The current mileage on my Jeep is 68599. My concern is not only I require frequent oil changes, but my check engine light is on... Read more

Incident date: Nov 19, 2023

TRANSMISSION cable broke. Transmission failed and we had to replace it for $5,500. Car was at 101,000 miles. Ford wouldn't help. Now getting a cylinder 4 misfire - P0304 code, U3000-04. Also, coolant leaks constantly and there is no leak. per the recall of the 2017 Ford Fusion, this coolant leak into the cylinders is happening to us as well.

Fire

Incident date: Feb 1, 2023

1. Im experiencing an ABS module failure (Honda calls it VSA module). 2. When the system messed up it causes my traction control and anti-lock brakes to turn off. 3. The problem has been reproduced as it keeps randomly turning all of the systems on and off randomly, multiple times during a single drive. 4. It has not been inspected by any of the people listed. 5. Nothing prior to the fail... Read more

Incident date: Feb 1, 2023

This car keeps shutting off and having overheating issues on and off while driving. I have replaced all pistons, fuel injectors, relays, gaskets, thermostats, hoses, and the catalytic converter. I've seen that over 60,000 cases have been reported about this issue with this vehicle and these vehicles are still being sold used at used car dealers despite the issues being unrepairable. This is a r... Read more

Incident date: Nov 18, 2023

I was driving at 64 mph utilizing the Adaptive Cruise Control and Autosteer (Beta). I was in the first of a two lane divided highway with no vehicles within 1000 feet in front of me and several cars passing me on my left. Fortunately, I had both hands on the wheel at the 10 and 2 positions and have good arm strength. Suddenly, abruptly and violently the car took over the steering and braking swe... Read more

Incident date: Nov 18, 2023

Incident date: Jul 6, 2022

While driving at highway speeds the steering wheel becomes what feels like locked and becomes very stiff. Almost as if the power steering is no longer working. This in turn causes me to have to forcefully steer the steering-wheel sometimes over correcting.

Incident date: Nov 1, 2023

41k miles P26A3 P26A5 ****Eyesight disabled*** ***Forward collision disabled *** Failed TCV and dealer will not cover because warranty period is over.

Incident date: Nov 1, 2023

41k miles P26A3 P26A5 ****Eyesight disabled*** ***Forward collision disabled *** Failed TCV and dealer will not cover because warranty period is over.

Incident date: Nov 1, 2023

41k miles P26A3 P26A5 ****Eyesight disabled*** ***Forward collision disabled *** Failed TCV and dealer will not cover because warranty period is over.

Incident date: Nov 11, 2023

This safety recall was issued over two months ago and there is still no remedy for it, putting my life and others lives in danger.

Incident date: Nov 7, 2023

The contact owns a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The contact stated that the front passenger's side active head rest restraint had deployed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the contact was informed that the front passenger's side active head rest restraint had deployed. The contact was informed that the front passenger's side active head rest restraint needed to be replaced. The vehicle was ... Read more

Incident date: Jun 1, 2023

APIM failure which results in loss of screen and information that has safety related items. Ford should provide a recall on all failed units. Customer forums have many complaints about this item.

Incident date: Nov 16, 2023

I was driving on the freeway, came to a stop as traffic increased, then the car shut off m. I had no power, could not get out of the vehicle, no hazards, no tail lights, nothing. I had a complete panic attack, I thought I was going to die. I called OnStar from my cell, they could even locate me. After 30 mins, calling 911, texting the representative from the dealership in which I purchased the car... Read more

Incident date: Jun 20, 2023

Car shudders and wobbles on freeway speeds when it hits seams or bumps in the road. Has steering stabilizer replaced in Feb 2023, which temporarily solved the problem. It has since started doing it again. The car has 20,000 miles on it.

Incident date: Sep 7, 2022

In 2 instances power steering doesn’t work and brakes go to the floor (it will stop, but very slowly). I believe pretty much every error code displays when this happens. Here’s some error codes: C165C87, C162387, C164286, C168787, U012300, C17024A, C174281. In addition, the back windshield cleaner sprays till it empties.

Incident date: Oct 15, 2022

My electrical system and/or computer brain is not operating properly. About a year and 1/2 ago the low beam passenger light stopped working. I had the bulb replaced at Walmart. 2 months later it went out again. Walmart checked and said the bulb was not the problem so I went to Firestone and was told the wiring was melted. Firestone said my options were to replace the entire harness or pig tail the... Read more

Incident date: Nov 7, 2023

The low oil level indicator light went on while I was driving in my 2019 Ford EcoSport. I stopped at an auto parts store and had them add oil. The light did not go off when we tried to clear the sensor. I drove it home (about a mile) and it struggled to pick up speed and the engine started to knock. I did some research on the model and the government is currently looking into to this issue and the... Read more

Incident date: Nov 7, 2023

Incident date: Nov 10, 2023

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? THE AIRBAG LIGHT KEEPS COMING ON AND OFF, AS WELL AS THE SEATBELT LIGHTS. IT CAN BE INSPECTED IF REQUESTED. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? IF THE AIRBAGS OR SEAT BELTS ARE NOT FUNCTIONING PROPERLY THIS COULD RESULT IN INJURY UP TO AND INCLUDING DEATH. Has the problem been ... Read more

Incident date: Jun 26, 2023

THE DASHBOARD GOES IN AND OUT WITH THE SCREEN, CAN'T SEE MILEAGE, SPEED, OR ETC CONTROL PANEL. THE SEAT BELT CAME UNLATCHED IN THE PROCESS OF SLOWING DOWN, PERSON WAS SLAMMED INTO THE DASH. NERVOUS TO DRIVE THE CAR WITH SEATBELT DELATCHING NO MESSAGE DUE TO THE DASH BEING OUT, AND NO ALERTS THROUGH ON STAR. DASH LIGHTS GOING OUT FOR ABOUT A MONTH, SEATBELT INCIDENT HAPPENED TWO DAYS AGO, STILL HAV... Read more

Incident date: Sep 13, 2023

During driving the engine will shut down and the truck stops. Multiple engine lights will display on the dash expressing multiple systems fails. The wrench icon will display. The safety of others and myself were put at risk due to the truck shutting off during forward movement and putting everyone at risk of a rear end crash. Yes, the issue has be reproduced and confirmed through self driving and ... Read more

Incident date: Nov 1, 2023

The contact owns a 2007 Mercedes-Benz E350. The contact stated that while refueling the vehicle, the vehicle emitted an abnormally strong gasoline odor inside and outside the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was informed that the failure was related to an unknown NHTSA ID Number; however, the campaign had expired. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was ... Read more

Incident date: Nov 1, 2023

Two weeks ago the FCW/LDW, Steering Wheel, Tire Pressure, ABS, and Emergency Brake lights came on the dashboard. I took the car to the mechanic and it was diagnosed as a malfunctioning ABS Modulator. According to the shop, they are dealing with a lot of similar cases for Honda Accords of around the same age. According to the dealer, the cost to replace this sensor is $1,900 since it basically con... Read more

Incident date: Nov 1, 2023

The front driver's side door is making a loud popping noise when opening and closing the door. We have not yet taken the car to our local dealership yet, but have spoken with them over the phone and their body shop has confirmed that this sounds like an issue we've identified in online forums, which poses a significant safety risk, as the door may open while the car is moving. We will be taking ... Read more

Incident date: Nov 13, 2022

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Focus. The contact stated while driving at 5 MPH, the vehicle jerked abnormally. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 83,000.

Incident date: Jul 10, 2023

The contact owns a 2018 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated while driving 10 MPH, the contact heard an abnormal noise and the rear of the vehicle jumped. The contact exited the vehicle and became aware that the rear coil spring had fractured. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and de... Read more

Incident date: Oct 13, 2023

The contact owns a 2017 Ram 1500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V406000 (Fuel System, Diesel) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and determined that the parts were not available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was ma... Read more

Incident date: Sep 13, 2023

Without any warning the car stopped running was able to pull over. Called for tow to dealership who after 30 days said it was the engine. Less than 50,000 miles

Incident date: Nov 13, 2023

This car has a standard transmission and a hydraulic clutch. The synchronizer for low gear lets it pop back out of gear. This is extremely dangerous if you are pulling out into a busy lane of traffic. It throws the shift lever back out of gear with a lot of force. I have had the hydraulics bled but plan to take it to a dealer soon. There are others listed on YouTube as having the same problem.

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Consumer Safety Complaints

What is a NHTSA consumer complaint?

How to interpret what you read

If you've experienced a defect

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