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 29,025 complaints for RAM
Incident date: May 16, 2024
Nothing has happened, yet, but we've received multiple recall notices from Honda who refuses to fix the problems. They keep claiming they don't have the parts, and it's been six months since you issued the recall. Why do we have to keep driving a car that could fail at any time? Why don't you force them to fix all the recalled cars? The recall number is 23V-858. Thank you for whatever you can... Read more
Incident date: May 16, 2024
On 5/15, I was entering the highway when the vehicle refused to accelerate. I pushed the gas pedal all the way to the floor, and the vehicle did not respond. I checked to see if it had stalled, but the engine was still running. I watched the rpm meter as I pushed the accelerator, and noticed that the rpm’s stayed at 1.5 the entire time. I pulled over to the shoulder and turned off the vehicle as... Read more
Incident date: May 17, 2024
Vehicle stalls intermittently. Due to an earlier recall of the same model but not including the one I own. There is electrical shorting inside the fuse box in the ignition circuitry that causes this problem. This is a huge problem as there is no preemptive warning. Whether you're driving 5 mph or 55 mph it happens suddenly and without any warning. The incident is stored in OBDII codes. There are n... Read more
Incident date: May 9, 2024
This is the second time the car has completely shut off and unable to restart. This is the second time it failed on the interstate. When the car died the car could not be switch to park and had to hold the brake pedal to prevent the car from rolling backward. Second whenever the car was turned of the hazard flashers would turn off. The dealer has previous looked at the car and claimed no problem. ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 28, 2023
My 2017 Ford Edge Titanium is in Pep Boys shop having the engine block replaced due to coolant leaking into the cylinders. This issue has been diagnosed by my mechanic and could have been a possible fire hazard. The engine overheats to extreme temperatures causing the engine to catch fire. The engine light came on while I was driving car. The engine also alerted me by voice in the car that it was ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 28, 2023
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while attempting to park the vehicle, the steering wheel was seized. The message “Steering Loss - Drive Safely” was displayed. The contact turned off the vehicle and had the vehicle towed to the residence. The contact was notified of an unknown recall related to the steering. The dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the VI... Read more
Incident date: Sep 1, 2023
Mercedes has not issued a remedy for the recall in a timely manner and has not been able to issue a date when the remedy will be available.
Incident date: Jan 15, 2024
Driving the vehicle between 35 and 40 mph, the vehicle completely shut off without warning. No check engine light prior to the vehicle shutting down. It was taking to the dealership for a scheduled oil change and the issue with was mention to the dealership. They told me that they hadn't heard of that issue at the time.
Incident date: May 11, 2024
I was driving home yesterday and experienced a loud pop in the back of the car and found the backseat had lifted because the gas tank had expanded I am at the dealership right now Hoping that they will give me a loaner And I would like to trade the car in because I don’t trust the car anymore There are other reports of this similar issue I found online The reports say that there is a PVC pressu... Read more
Incident date: Feb 11, 2024
Currently are having to replace the ABS component, AGAIN. Already replaced it once. First time was about 2.5 years ago. I have a receipt, but unable to download at this time. Truck was dropped off yesterday at mechanic shop for same issue. (05-14-24)
Incident date: Feb 11, 2024
The contact owns a 2011 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, there was smoke coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle was taken to the local service center which determined that the cam shaft sensor was faulty and needed to be replaced. The cam shaft sensor was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failu... Read more
Incident date: Nov 15, 2021
Low beam lighting failures due to the reflective property breakdown
Incident date: May 12, 2024
I was the owner of a 2018 Sonata until I was t-boned and the car was totaled. I started to make a left turn into a school parking lot when the engine kind of stalled or more like stuttered and did not go forward as usual. The oncoming car then struck me before I was completely in the driveway. My vehicle was totaled as was the other one. Fortunately no one was on the passenger's side where the o... Read more
Crash
1 injured
Incident date: May 1, 2024
While driving down the freeway, all the warning lights came on and the engine sputtered and cut out. As we were in the left lane on a busy freeway, it put us at considerable risk. We were able to get to the left shoulder and get towed off the highway. This was caused, I later learned, by a faulty electronic thermostat which caused the system to fail.
Incident date: Apr 25, 2024
Warning light comes on stating “Secure Vehicle Against Rolling” when vehicle is in park. I called BMW and took the vehicle in the next morning. The BMW dealership stated the GEAR SELECTOR LEVER ASSEMBLY needed to be replaced and needs immediate attention. At a cost of $2,858.40. Apparently I am not the only person who feels this is a safety issue due to a manufacturing malfunction and should... Read more
Incident date: May 3, 2024
The camshaft leaks and has been recalled, but Ford is refusing to fix it….
Incident date: May 15, 2024
On Sunday [XXX] I was driving to work, there was a moment where I felt the steering wheel was very stiff to the point where it felt weird and hard to control. I felt the two front wheels a bit odd, but then it went back to normal. I paid no attention to it after. As I was driving on [XXX] , my car started to automatically move to the left and I tried steering my wheel to get back in lane, but the ... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Jul 1, 2023
Clunking in the front suspension drivers side consistent with a broken strut housing... just like on our last 3 Acura MDX's that had breaks in the Super Handling All Wheel Drive magnetic shocks.
Incident date: Jul 1, 2023
My vehicle has no driver screen. It completely went black. Cannot monitor my speed or check anything on the dash screen.
Incident date: May 14, 2024
Abs light. Electronic brake failure light
Incident date: May 14, 2024
Reported “sticky steering” situation to dealer on Feb. 8 2024. Dealer test drove vehicle and confirmed that there is an issue and that vehicle will need a steering rack replacement. The service manager assured me that this was not a safety issue and that it would be ok to continue driving the vehicle. They said they would order it and that it is on back order and should be available in March 2... Read more
Incident date: May 14, 2024
While traveling, ABS Braking system intermittently engaged a single Caliper and prevented it from retracting. This causes a sudden slowing off the vehicle, creating the risk of collision, particularly while traveling on the highway. An independent service center inspected the vehicle, and reported a computer code referencing the abs/brake booster as the source of the problem.
Incident date: May 14, 2024
Was 8 days out of warranty so Toyota would not honor offer to replace the brake booster/actuator. Paid personally to have it done with genuine Toyota parts. 16 months later same parts need replacing. Toyota refuses to help.
Incident date: Oct 31, 2022
The contact owns a 2018 Ram 2500. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH, an alarm sounded, and the ABS and traction control warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while driving, causing the ABS and the cruise control features to become inoperable. The contact stated while driving and slamming on the brakes on several occasions to come to a complete sto... Read more
Incident date: Oct 31, 2022
The headlights of my 2015 Acura RDX have degraded to the point where driving at night is near impossible, but definitely dangerous. The bulbs are relatively new, but the light output only extends a few feet in front of the car. This deterioration has been identified by the dealer as a known issue, but is requiring a substantial replacement cost. The issue is not due to driver negligence. One c... Read more
Incident date: Oct 31, 2022
I have had two spontaneous window cracks within 6 to 9 months apart. I had a full windshield replacement and the windshield has just cracked again. The second incident, the vehicle was parked overnight so it wasn't caused by a rock or from following a car.
Incident date: May 13, 2024
- While driving, we received a notice on the dashboard to "stop driving and check regenerative brakes". Simultaneously we lose 95% of our braking power and all of the acceleration. Slamming on the brakes all the way to the floor provided some minor braking ability, but it was significantly diminished and frankly terrifying. We turn the car off, turn it back on again, and everything seems totally n... Read more
Incident date: May 13, 2024
- While driving, we received a notice on the dashboard to "stop driving and check regenerative brakes". Simultaneously we lose 95% of our braking power and all of the acceleration. Slamming on the brakes all the way to the floor provided some minor braking ability, but it was significantly diminished and frankly terrifying. We turn the car off, turn it back on again, and everything seems totally n... Read more
Incident date: Dec 23, 2023
The coolant control valve is faulty and needs to be replaced. GMC and the dealership know about the issue (Bulletin No. PIP5791), but are not fixing it in a timely manner. This is a safety concern as the system will automatically reduce engine power, which is a major concern when towing and/or in mountainous terrain.
Incident date: Apr 12, 2024
I started having issues with my brakes. I had recently had the front rotors and pads replaced, but I still heard squeeking, and a little fishtailing on my back end. I figured I needed my brakes in the rear checked, so I took it to Pep Boys for a free inspection. The mechanic showed me that my rear control arm on the left was very loose, and the compartment that connected to it was severely rusted ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 12, 2024
I started having issues with my brakes. I had recently had the front rotors and pads replaced, but I still heard squeeking, and a little fishtailing on my back end. I figured I needed my brakes in the rear checked, so I took it to Pep Boys for a free inspection. The mechanic showed me that my rear control arm on the left was very loose, and the compartment that connected to it was severely rusted ... Read more
Incident date: Feb 13, 2024
I was driving down a completely clear road, not a single car or turn in sight. When suddenly my cars front collision warning comes on the screen and brakes my car for me. There was no advance warning, just hard braking.
Incident date: May 3, 2024
Subframe rusted and broke. It is available for inspection. Burlington Mercedes inspected the vehicle and told me it was not safe to drive. Mercedes-Benz USA is aware of the problem. They issued a letter extending the warranty covering only the subframe to twenty years and unlimited miles. Burlington Mercedes refused to do the subframe replacement without installing all new arms, which are currentl... Read more
Incident date: Aug 17, 2023
Our 2017 Chevy Traverse was recalled over a year ago due to a known issue with the airbag which has shot pieces of metal killing drivers and passengers. A year later we are still left without a resolution for our vehicle. Several attempts to work with the company has proved unsuccessful. The vehicle has now been out of service 365 days which is beyond the acceptable time period for resolving t... Read more
Incident date: Mar 1, 2024
Several electrical issues, vehicle issues tying back to the CAN BUSS. The vehicle throws several codes and several components quit working. I lost powering steering at 80 M.P.H and had to fight the vehicle not to wreck out. Then the power steering comes back to function again almost causing me to wreck out. Traction control also stops working when this issue occurs, which is also incredibly danger... Read more
Incident date: May 8, 2024
The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Rav4 Hybrid. 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 made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that p... Read more
Incident date: Dec 13, 2023
There was a recall on my vehicle due to a spring issue. Presumably I have the same springs as those on cars that were recalled, even though my car was not recalled. My springs are damaged, but VW refuses to take responsibility.
Incident date: Nov 27, 2023
The contact owns a 2009 BMW 535I equipped with Mastercraft Tires, Tire Line: Stratus, Tire Size: 225/50/R17. The contact stated while driving at undisclosed speeds, the passenger's side rear tire was bubbling, and the vehicle was unstable. The vehicle was pulled to the side of the road and the contact observed that the tread belt was broken. The tire was not the original equipment. The vehicle was... Read more
Incident date: May 1, 2024
For the second time since the vehicle's purchase in 2019, the Antilock Braking System is flashing an intermittent error stating that the Antilock Braking System needs to be serviced. When the system flashes the error, the antilock brakes, cruise control, and stability control become disabled. The error sometimes will clear itself, and then immediately return a minute or two later. Three years ago ... Read more
Incident date: May 1, 2024
Infiniti called me on 05/08/24 to discuss and review Infiniti Case # [XXX] including Infiniti’s subsequent refusal to remedy a defective SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) sensor on my 2017 Infiniti Q60 with 54,100 miles (VIN: [XXX] ). This defect was confirmed on 05/07/24 by Infiniti of Melbourne Florida through an authorized technician. While I am the original owner of the vehicle, Infiniti ... Read more
Incident date: May 1, 2024
Infiniti called me on 05/08/24 to discuss and review Infiniti Case # [XXX] including Infiniti’s subsequent refusal to remedy a defective SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) sensor on my 2017 Infiniti Q60 with 54,100 miles (VIN: [XXX] ). This defect was confirmed on 05/07/24 by Infiniti of Melbourne Florida through an authorized technician. While I am the original owner of the vehicle, Infiniti ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 7, 2024
Just 120000 km. Because of the water drops from the AC , that part of front frame badly rusted and perforated. Because of the improper design, my 120000 km car now is not safe to drive.
Incident date: Apr 7, 2024
The contact owns a 2012 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while his wife was driving 55 MPH, the vehicle experienced a loss of power steering assist. The "Power Steering Assist Fault" message was displayed. The failure almost caused a crash. The contact helped his wife steer the vehicle and pulled over to the side of the road. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the rack and pinion wer... Read more
Incident date: May 7, 2024
The hood on my car seems to be loose as it rattles when closed and driving. It does appear to be latched, however I'm concerned that the hood will come loose and blow up in front of the windshield while driving causing a life threatening accident. The hood bumpers on the inside of the hood are not adjustable, and/or long enough to cushion the hood to stop the rattling either.
Incident date: Jul 23, 2023
My 2010 Elantra just started making a clicking noise when slightly turning the steering wheel back and forth. Doing online research, I discovered it is a common problem on Hyundai, with the same symptoms as my problem, that there is a rubber star damper gear in the electronic motor system inside the steering column that fails, it completely falls apart, and is very common defect in these vehicles.... Read more
Incident date: Nov 2, 2021
I purchased 4 Cooper Adventurer 265/70R16 tires in 3-2022 from Pep Boys in Mobile, AL. I had a ASE Certified mechanic checked these tires and found there was a bulge on the tread of the passenger front & tread separation on the driver's rear tire. The tires have approx. 17K miles since purchase. Pep Boys refused to replace the 2 tires unless I paid a pro-rated fee which I refused due to the 2 def... Read more
Incident date: Apr 16, 2024
Several months ago, a bit of road debris hit the front grill and broke a piece off. Soon after that I began receiving messages of 'check vehicle electrical system', 'active air flap warning', and another that at this point I do not recall. The overall repair cost nearly $6,000. An employee at Emich Kia reported that there were two other 2022 Kia EV6 cars that came in for the same repair. The emplo... Read more
Incident date: May 8, 2024
The service abs and service electrical brake system flashes on and off, dings. Occurs at all speeds, in town driving seems to make it ding worse on and off on and off Some days it doesn’t hardly do it, some days it is non stop. This prohibits the use of cruise control also, with a faulty braking alert the cruise aUto disengages From looking at dodge forums this is a very common issue in 2018 250... Read more
Incident date: Feb 17, 2024
The power steering assist has begun to randomly stop working. It has happened 3 times. The first time it happened was as soon as I started the car to move it. I turned the car off and turned it back on and it worked. 5 starts later the same problem occurred and I was able to restart the car and it worked. Approximately 7 starts after that the power steering assist stopped working again, but t... Read more
Incident date: Feb 17, 2024
There appears to be massive frame flex and/or failure my unit interior stairs have been scrapping on walls as well as large hutch, have suffered roof separation at cap, suspension failures with broken leave springs