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 6,381 complaints for MINI
MINI
COOPER CLUBMAN
(2010) - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Oct 29, 2021
Incident date: Oct 27, 2021
I bought the car used 10 days ago, 3 days ago, the electrical indicator flashed, so I parked the car. I thought it was a glitch. It was very rainy. I woke up the next morning and it had spontaneously combusted on the inside driver's footwell, obvious flames had been on windows and whole car reeks of smoke. I cant even get inside of the car with the physical key. I could have been inside when the c... Read more
Fire
MINI
COOPER CLUBMAN
(2010) - ENGINE
Oct 29, 2021
Incident date: Oct 27, 2021
I bought the car used 10 days ago, 3 days ago, the electrical indicator flashed, so I parked the car. I thought it was a glitch. It was very rainy. I woke up the next morning and it had spontaneously combusted on the inside driver's footwell, obvious flames had been on windows and whole car reeks of smoke. I cant even get inside of the car with the physical key. I could have been inside when the c... Read more
Fire
Incident date: Oct 29, 2021
Car only has 48000,00 miles and tie rods need replaced This is not normal ware for a car. My Ford Fusion has 98000.00 and just now needs tie rods. This has to be a defect
Incident date: Oct 24, 2021
The night of October 24th, while I was driving my CID back screen went to black and there were messages displayed in white color. Bootloader 11.035.000/ FFW 1.8.3 Dec 5 2017 Next line is displayed HWEL:42E5 2.1.5 Followed by a large white bar This display stays on even after lock the car. The morning of October 25th, There are warnings came on “ Battery discharged start engine” and “In... Read more
MINI
COUNTRYMAN
(2021) - FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
Oct 26, 2021
Incident date: May 10, 2021
The vehicle brakes during turns in the road when it is inappropriate. Has led to braking almost to a stop on the highway in one incident and could possibly cause a rear end collision. It has done this around 30 times in the past year of owning the vehicle and has begun to cause anxiety on the road due to not knowing when it will activate. It also has not warned during near front end collisions whe... Read more
MINI
COUNTRYMAN
(2021) - VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Oct 26, 2021
Incident date: May 10, 2021
The vehicle brakes during turns in the road when it is inappropriate. Has led to braking almost to a stop on the highway in one incident and could possibly cause a rear end collision. It has done this around 30 times in the past year of owning the vehicle and has begun to cause anxiety on the road due to not knowing when it will activate. It also has not warned during near front end collisions whe... Read more
MINI
COUNTRYMAN
(2018) - SERVICE BRAKES
Oct 11, 2021
Incident date: Oct 5, 2021
•What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? I had brake caliper repaired on front right wheel, on 5/5/20. Had to have service on same brake caliper on 10/5/21 - revealed caliper froze causing excessive bakes wear. •How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Potential of brake failure. •Has the problem been reproduced or ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 20, 2020
It is very difficult to turn my steering wheel. It takes more energy than any other car I have ever driven
Incident date: Sep 8, 2021
2005 Mini Cooper S has power steering whine, hard to steer the wheel. Very unsafe.
MINI
COUNTRYMAN
(2016) - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Sep 13, 2021
Incident date: Sep 7, 2021
The contact's daughter owns a 2016 Mini Cooper S Countryman. The contact stated that his daughter was informed by an independent mechanic that the vehicle could be started without the ignition key. The contact stated that his daughter tested the vehicle while the keys remained in the residence with him. The contact stated that his daughter was able to start and drive the vehicle without the igniti... Read more
Incident date: Aug 30, 2021
The car easily shifts to neutral while driving. It is an automatic car. If the shifter is bumped every so slightly it shifts into neutral. It happens while traveling slowly or very fast. It has happened to me on a highway as well as when traveling very slowly. It is dangerous and certainly a safety. issue, especially if traveling on a highway. I will include one date on this form, but it has ... Read more
MINI
COUNTRYMAN
(2018) - STEERING
Sep 11, 2021
Incident date: Sep 11, 2021
Steering is becoming stiffer. Seems like there is new or added restistance when turning the steering wheel while the vehicle is going slower.
Incident date: Sep 1, 2021
Driving at approximately 10-15 miles an hour entering a parking lot when I noticed flames coming out of the hood scoop of my 2005 Mini Cooper S. After brief inspection from my mechanic, it is believed to have been caused by the wiring harness for ABS or possibly the power steering unit since the fire originated from the rear/right hand side of the engine and those two components. I have a claim ... Read more
Fire
Incident date: Sep 1, 2021
Driving at approximately 10-15 miles an hour entering a parking lot when I noticed flames coming out of the hood scoop of my 2005 Mini Cooper S. After brief inspection from my mechanic, it is believed to have been caused by the wiring harness for ABS or possibly the power steering unit since the fire originated from the rear/right hand side of the engine and those two components. I have a claim ... Read more
Fire
Incident date: Sep 1, 2021
Driving at approximately 10-15 miles an hour entering a parking lot when I noticed flames coming out of the hood scoop of my 2005 Mini Cooper S. After brief inspection from my mechanic, it is believed to have been caused by the wiring harness for ABS or possibly the power steering unit since the fire originated from the rear/right hand side of the engine and those two components. I have a claim ... Read more
Fire
MINI
COUNTRYMAN
(2016) - SEAT BELTS
Aug 30, 2021
Incident date: Aug 26, 2021
I suddenly have a warning appear on my start menu including warning lights. Upon starting, The message states “ RESTRAINT SYSTEM MALFUNCTION! Fault in passenger-restraint system affecting airbag, belt tensioner or belt-force limiter. Continue to wear seatbelt. Have system checked by nearest Mini Center” I bought this car used less than a year ago, but my extended warranty does not cover electr... Read more
MINI
COUNTRYMAN
(2016) - AIR BAGS
Aug 30, 2021
Incident date: Aug 26, 2021
I suddenly have a warning appear on my start menu including warning lights. Upon starting, The message states “ RESTRAINT SYSTEM MALFUNCTION! Fault in passenger-restraint system affecting airbag, belt tensioner or belt-force limiter. Continue to wear seatbelt. Have system checked by nearest Mini Center” I bought this car used less than a year ago, but my extended warranty does not cover electr... Read more
Incident date: Aug 7, 2021
The harmonic balancer aka crank damper went on my 2016 4dr hardtop 1.5L Mini Cooper. Has 73,000 miles on it. It has been sitting at a garage now for almost a month waiting for bmw to have the part in stock (tentative date avail. Sept.20, making it 2months wait time) tried every possible 3rd party parts dealer & not 1 harmonic balancer is to be found. I was told this part had already needed to be u... Read more
Incident date: Aug 7, 2021
The harmonic balancer aka crank damper went on my 2016 4dr hardtop 1.5L Mini Cooper. Has 73,000 miles on it. It has been sitting at a garage now for almost a month waiting for bmw to have the part in stock (tentative date avail. Sept.20, making it 2months wait time) tried every possible 3rd party parts dealer & not 1 harmonic balancer is to be found. I was told this part had already needed to be u... Read more
Incident date: Aug 7, 2021
The harmonic balancer aka crank damper went on my 2016 4dr hardtop 1.5L Mini Cooper. Has 73,000 miles on it. It has been sitting at a garage now for almost a month waiting for bmw to have the part in stock (tentative date avail. Sept.20, making it 2months wait time) tried every possible 3rd party parts dealer & not 1 harmonic balancer is to be found. I was told this part had already needed to be u... Read more
Incident date: Oct 30, 2020
The lighting and small system computer or FRM module. This module controls any features including safety features on the car. My turn signals, hazard lights, dash lights, courtesy lights, tail lights, windows, horn, high beam headlights and possibly airbags don’t work. Mini will fix the problem if the car is ten years old or less, but any car that is older doesn’t qualify. My car is a 2011 but... Read more
Incident date: Oct 30, 2020
The lighting and small system computer or FRM module. This module controls any features including safety features on the car. My turn signals, hazard lights, dash lights, courtesy lights, tail lights, windows, horn, high beam headlights and possibly airbags don’t work. Mini will fix the problem if the car is ten years old or less, but any car that is older doesn’t qualify. My car is a 2011 but... Read more
Incident date: Oct 30, 2020
The lighting and small system computer or FRM module. This module controls any features including safety features on the car. My turn signals, hazard lights, dash lights, courtesy lights, tail lights, windows, horn, high beam headlights and possibly airbags don’t work. Mini will fix the problem if the car is ten years old or less, but any car that is older doesn’t qualify. My car is a 2011 but... Read more
MINI
COOPER COUNTRYMAN
(2012) - AIR BAGS
Aug 11, 2021
Incident date: Oct 15, 2020
The front passenger occupancy detector (or OC3) failed, making the passenger airbags inoperable. This is a common problem with minis and many other models have had the mat warranty extended. The dealer confirmed that the OC3 is bad but wanted $800 just to order the part which is embedded in the seat cushion. Consumers shouldn't have to bear the cost of a defective vital safety component that shoul... Read more
Incident date: Feb 1, 2021
The contact owns a 2018 Mini Cooper Clubman. The contact stated that the driver's side brake light was inoperable. The contact attempted to change bulbs and noticed the housing was melted. The vehicle was towed to the dealer four hours away and was informed that the brake lights were working as designed. The vehicle was not repaired as no diagnostic codes were found. The vehicle was taken to an in... Read more
MINI
COOPER CLUBMAN
(2011) - SEAT BELTS
Aug 2, 2021
Incident date: Jul 26, 2021
Set Belt and Airbag Warning lights came light up for no reason and the computer got a hard code that cannot be reset (ACSM - Crash Safety Module, 93C3, OC3). This will be put in a Safety Risk if the car gets in an accident.
MINI
COOPER CLUBMAN
(2011) - AIR BAGS
Aug 2, 2021
Incident date: Jul 26, 2021
Set Belt and Airbag Warning lights came light up for no reason and the computer got a hard code that cannot be reset (ACSM - Crash Safety Module, 93C3, OC3). This will be put in a Safety Risk if the car gets in an accident.
Incident date: Jul 30, 2021
Crankshaft Pulley burnt while driving. Could not accelerate. Car threw overheating codes and AC blew hot air. Battery Charging Malfunction error shown as well.
Incident date: Oct 1, 2016
2007 mini cooper s airbag light with warning on navigation screen saying seat belt tensioner or belt force limiter has a problem and passenger airbag is off. Odometer is 76,000 when problem started.
Incident date: Oct 1, 2016
2007 mini cooper s airbag light with warning on navigation screen saying seat belt tensioner or belt force limiter has a problem and passenger airbag is off. Odometer is 76,000 when problem started.
Incident date: Jul 8, 2021
The contact owns a 2010 Mini Cooper. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, there was a rattling sound heard with a burning odor detected. The vehicle stalled without warning. The check engine light warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer on several occasions however, the mechanic was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The dealer performed an oil ... Read more
Fire
Incident date: Jul 27, 2021
The contact owns a 2015 Mini Copper The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the fuel tank needed to be replaced. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 78,000. The Vin was no... Read more
Incident date: Jul 26, 2021
The contact owns a 2011 Mini Cooper S. The contact received a recall notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V248000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) 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 manufacturer was notified of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failu... Read more
Incident date: Jul 14, 2021
Per dealer, the front passenger door latch cable went bad (documentation available if needed) on a 2017 Mini Cooper S (4-door). Background: there was an episode a few weeks back when I was unable to latch the front passenger door. It just wouldn't latch when you tried to close it - the door would just swing / bounce off the body of the car (so to speak) on closure attempts. I fiddled with locking... Read more
Incident date: Jul 12, 2021
While driving home one night the following items failed to work: Head lights; turn signals, front windows (so no hand signals); Hazard lights; interior lights; and speedometer dash light. This occurred shortly after a battery change. I am not sure if tail of brake lights function at this time. Driving the vehicle in this condition presents a unacceptable safety concern. During daily light ho... Read more
Incident date: Jul 12, 2021
While driving home one night the following items failed to work: Head lights; turn signals, front windows (so no hand signals); Hazard lights; interior lights; and speedometer dash light. This occurred shortly after a battery change. I am not sure if tail of brake lights function at this time. Driving the vehicle in this condition presents a unacceptable safety concern. During daily light ho... Read more
Incident date: Jul 12, 2021
While driving home one night the following items failed to work: Head lights; turn signals, front windows (so no hand signals); Hazard lights; interior lights; and speedometer dash light. This occurred shortly after a battery change. I am not sure if tail of brake lights function at this time. Driving the vehicle in this condition presents a unacceptable safety concern. During daily light ho... Read more
Incident date: Jul 3, 2021
Fuel tank did not allow me to input fuel. Pump clicked off immediately. MINI issued a service bulletin on the problem in 2015. I have been advised the entire fuel tank must be replaced, and have heard from other MINI owners this is a systemic problem. If I had been traveling and this problem had surfaced I would have been stranded. The repairs warrant warranty coverage on the part of MINI. See ser... Read more
Incident date: Jul 1, 2021
This car was maintained, by Mini and BMW authorized mechanics and only had OEM parts installed and followed management of vehicle as directed by manufacturer, throughout its history. It was always driven and kept in moderate weather conditions, no extreme heat, cold, wet, or speeds. Used almost daily for 30-60 minute commutes. Just after 100K miles, total engine failure was suddenly experienced on... Read more
Incident date: Jul 1, 2021
This car was maintained, by Mini and BMW authorized mechanics and only had OEM parts installed and followed management of vehicle as directed by manufacturer, throughout its history. It was always driven and kept in moderate weather conditions, no extreme heat, cold, wet, or speeds. Used almost daily for 30-60 minute commutes. Just after 100K miles, total engine failure was suddenly experienced on... Read more
Incident date: Jun 30, 2021
While driving on I-81 to NY state, I experienced serious tire vibration followed by tire loss of air. All tires were checked for proper tire inflation before trip. After pulling off to the side of the road, I witnessed a large hole with metal fiber sticking through the tire tread. I believe the tread separation was the cause.
Incident date: Jun 30, 2021
While driving on I-81 to NY state, I experienced serious tire vibration followed by tire loss of air. All tires were checked for proper tire inflation before trip. The service center in which I ended up in said that the tire belts had separated and caused the rapid tire deflation.
Incident date: Jul 6, 2021
The electro-hydraulic power steering system stopped working on my 2005 Mini Cooper. The was a recall for 2002 to 2005 mini power steering pump failures but the problem continued thru 2011 because the fix that mini Cooper came up with was inadequate. The essentially put a band-aid on the problem and left car owners holding the bag. I, in fact, had the auxiliary pump that mini came up with replac... Read more
Incident date: Jun 26, 2021
On Saturday, June 26, 2021, I was driving from a Highway # 30 from Caguas to Humacao Puerto Rico and when a try to take the exit for my House the car swept away and crashed. The airbags do not open and the Seat belt does not protect my self. I suffer many injuries in my head and body.
Crash
1 injured
Incident date: Jun 26, 2021
On Saturday, June 26, 2021, I was driving from a Highway # 30 from Caguas to Humacao Puerto Rico and when a try to take the exit for my House the car swept away and crashed. The airbags do not open and the Seat belt does not protect my self. I suffer many injuries in my head and body.
Crash
1 injured
Incident date: Jun 20, 2021
Some how from one day to another the Signal doesn’t works for any dirección, horn, high lighting doesn’t work, only works the posición light but doesn’t respond if I use the control to turn off or change the option.
Incident date: Jun 20, 2021
Some how from one day to another the Signal doesn’t works for any dirección, horn, high lighting doesn’t work, only works the posición light but doesn’t respond if I use the control to turn off or change the option.
Incident date: May 1, 2018
Engine Mount and right control arm bushings have cracked and need to be replaced below 60,000 miles and only being 4 years old.
Incident date: Nov 1, 2020
My car is 4 years old, the headlight lenses on both sides are cracking from the inside, Mini Cooper will not cover this, there is a film on the inside of the lens which I found through research, this is a safety issue, these lenses should be clear not cracked and should not be after 4 years, the headlight beam is obstructed by these cracks and therefor a huge safety issue, the lens should be clear... Read more
Incident date: Jun 2, 2021
I purchased a vehicle from a used car dealership and about two weeks after I purchased the vehicle I took it in to get the oil and all the fluids checked I washed the vehicle filled the tank up with gas and took it into them when I went to pick it up I noticed that there was some thing that appeared to be a programmer underneath the dash that was missing that was there before I took it to them as ... Read more