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: Mar 19, 2024
driver's air bag module - An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death. The vehicle has been acknowledged by Chevrolet to be one of the vehicles affected by the recall, but they do not have any replacements and they do not know if or when any replacements will be available.
Incident date: Mar 19, 2024
Safety Recall [XXX] My vehicle falls into this recall yet the dealership and ford is saying it dose not. The vehicle was built at the Oakville Assembly Plant during the time of recall specs. I believe June 2007. The vehicle is in Wisconsin which also falls into the recall specs. The fuel tank has the leak in the areas spoke of in the recall, Ford is not doing anything about it. We received a cas... Read more
Incident date: Jan 2, 2024
Anti-Lock brakes controller failed. Cannot brake without car shaking violently. Causes safety issues with controlling vehicle during stop ABS light came on Manufacturer (Ford) has not been able to get the (chip) for over 1 year
Incident date: Feb 13, 2024
Was driving down the road and lost my power steering, the power steer assist light is going off have absolutely no power steering from all my research this is a well known issue with this year ford fusion but nothing has been done about it. A recall needs to be done this is a major safety issue and could case accidents even fatalities
Incident date: Feb 28, 2024
The hold app doesn't work very well. Since first check up in 2022, I mentioned to garage that I have to push on button every time I need to use it as opposed to pressing on it and removing it when desired. However, not the main issue. I get in the car, Auto Hold (which usually appears when I press the button) will suddenly pop on my screen but won't work. The break won't hold, it's just there. It... Read more
Incident date: Mar 8, 2024
Connecting rod bearing failure resulting in the short block having to be replaced. Currently at Honda Dealership having short block replaced. 56000 km currently on vehicle and all oil changes made at correct intervals.
Incident date: Mar 8, 2024
The cars left front and right front side headlight reflectors do not properly provide adequate reflected light, which lowers the visibility to other road users, almost causing a recent crash. Also, the left front halogen low beam reflector does not properly illuminate the roadway for the driver, substantially reducing driving visibility.
Incident date: Mar 16, 2023
Recently there is a grind/rubbing noise coming from the engine compartment on my vehicle, Ive recieved a SAFETY RECALL notice from BMW in regards to the VANOS bolts coming loose. Notice states that remedy is unavailable, recently visited my local BMW dealership in Milford DE, and was simply told that they cant help. The recall clearly states the possibility of crashing or vehicle not turning on af... Read more
Incident date: Mar 23, 2024
While driving and slowing for a traffic light, my 2023 Ram 1500 Limited 4X4 began to immediately slow, and I observed the gear selector engage from drive to park, back to drive and back to park, and engaging the emergency brake. The vehicle ceased operating. I was able to engage the emergency flashers and restart the vehicle. All of this occurred while in traffic. This is the second occurrence... Read more
Incident date: Mar 23, 2024
Not starting due to loss of power I believe it's electrical.
Incident date: Mar 23, 2024
Not starting due to loss of power I believe it's electrical.
Incident date: Mar 23, 2024
Vehicle lost all power while driving on the freeway. Had to pull over, find a safe place to park and while doing that, the engine sounded like a diesel engine.
Incident date: Mar 23, 2024
Vehicle lost all power while driving on the freeway. Had to pull over, find a safe place to park and while doing that, the engine sounded like a diesel engine.
Incident date: May 8, 2023
Many Tesla owners have received notifications about a "Front Passenger Safety Restraint System Fault". It seems that there might be a defect with the car, given the number of people impacted and the severity of not having proper safety restraint. I am very careful with my car, and it has not been involved in any accidents, so I think Tesla should do a recall to make sure all Front Passenger Safety... Read more
Incident date: Sep 8, 2023
On [XXX] while driving our 2011 Toyota Sequoia 4x4 Limited (5.7 iforce non flex fuel) my wife was preparing to stop at a traffic light. Completely unexpected and with no warning, the vehicle started bucking, the engine began making a knocking noise and numerous dashboard lights started flashing. It immediately stalled while attempting to stop, thus, causing a very dangerous situation, losing tota... Read more
Incident date: Sep 8, 2023
On [XXX] while driving our 2011 Toyota Sequoia 4x4 Limited (5.7 iforce non flex fuel) my wife was preparing to stop at a traffic light. Completely unexpected and with no warning, the vehicle started bucking, the engine began making a knocking noise and numerous dashboard lights started flashing. It immediately stalled while attempting to stop, thus, causing a very dangerous situation, losing tota... Read more
Incident date: Mar 5, 2024
I am writing to express my alarm as to the length of time it is taking to resolve a safety recall ([XXX]) on my 2016 Buick Enclave. The recall was issued in May of 2023 and 10 months later, still no fix. It gives me great pause to be driving this vehicle whose driver's front airbag could shoot projectiles into the cabin if deployed. It even states in my recall letter that this could be deadly. Rec... Read more
Incident date: Mar 12, 2024
Fuel line is leaking under the car. I could smell gas when I would get out of my car.
Incident date: Mar 22, 2024
The contact owns a 2010 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle jerked, stalled, and made a clicking sound while idling. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local mechanic who stated that the exhaust camshaft timing was over-advanced beyond limits for a predetermined period, the system performance catalyst was ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 6, 2024
Trailer Brake Wirijg Harness
Incident date: Mar 6, 2024
Gaskets on windshield are broken and moving while driving. The windshield is leaking water inside the vehicle from rain water damaged sunroof function and carpet.
Incident date: Jan 15, 2024
The contact owns a 2017 Ram 1500. The contact stated that after making an abrupt stop, several abnormal popping sounds began to emit from the vehicle without warning. The vehicle then failed to accelerate upon the depression of the accelerator pedal. Due to the failure, the vehicle was initially towed to the residence and then towed to a dealer. The dealer informed the contact that the rear axle n... Read more
Incident date: Feb 19, 2024
Power Steering System Failure Complete Engine Failure Complete Lack of Power Check Engine Light came on March 19, 2024 and the Engine failed within 5 min of it coming on.
Incident date: Mar 19, 2024
Driving in a snow storm, and it requires complete visual attention to remain in lane and maintain a safe distance behind car in front. But you also need to manage wipers and defrost controls. Since this car has no console buttons and no stalk controls, adjusting anything requires looking away from the road for a significant length of time. Changing wiper setting requires using the right hand to pr... Read more
Incident date: Mar 19, 2024
Driving in a snow storm, and it requires complete visual attention to remain in lane and maintain a safe distance behind car in front. But you also need to manage wipers and defrost controls. Since this car has no console buttons and no stalk controls, adjusting anything requires looking away from the road for a significant length of time. Changing wiper setting requires using the right hand to pr... Read more
Incident date: Jan 1, 2024
The backup camera suddenly went black. I saw this was a problem that led to a recall on earlier models of the Honda Ridgeline. I was fortunate in that the dealer did get it covered by the warranty department. The confirmed it was a wiring problem.
Incident date: Mar 22, 2024
Took 2004 Toyota 4Runner SR5 to Toyota dealership to be serviced. Dealership called me to explain unable to do alignment, due to rear back frame excessive rusted through. Dealership advised waste of money to align new tires just purchased, unable to even do alignment and it was dangerous. Now what is to be done? This is my daily driver for work. How did this happen that its unsafe and dangerous to... Read more
Incident date: Sep 1, 2022
Touch screen started randomly changing radio stations, map kept popping up and it would randomly change inputs such as AM, FM, Sirius, etc.. Other pop up windows would appear such as updating clock, which it had already updated on its own and other window messages as well. Has happened 4 times.
Incident date: Aug 18, 2023
Service Antilock Brake System & Service Electronic Brake System on 2017 Ram 6.4 hemi
Incident date: Aug 18, 2023
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Focus. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, she heard an abnormal knocking sound emanating from the engine compartment. The check warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the turbo booster. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was then towed to th... Read more
Incident date: Aug 18, 2023
My vehicle had a recall opened nearly a year ago. The recall is 23S33 PHEV BATTERY CELL DEGRADATION. I had taken my car into the dealership nearly a dozen times over the course of almost 2 years prior to the recall being announced. I was told not to charge a car that I bought for that specific purpose. Initially a solution was posted of replacing the battery which was then removed. So there very m... Read more
Incident date: Mar 8, 2024
On [XXX], I received a "SERVICE ELECTRONIC BRAKING SYSTEM" error on my 2017 Ram 1500 and then "CHECK ENGINE" light came on. I did not drive the truck after that except to bring it to my dealer at first available appointment on [XXX]. I brought the truck to my dealer for repair and after system inspection was told the ABS module and HCU (hydraulic control unit) are faulty and need replacement. The... Read more
Incident date: Mar 8, 2024
The camper does not have a GFCI receptacle within the camper. It does have a GFCI breaker. Unfortunately, the GFCI breaker is not easily accessible because you have to remove a couch before you can access the breaker. That does not follow ANSI code.
Incident date: Mar 8, 2024
I received a letter in the mail dated February 9th, 2024. This letter stated there was a recall on my car to mitigate any unreasonable fire risk due to potential engine damage. It states to take the car to a Kia dealer so they can inspect and, if need be, replace the engine. It is recall number [XXX]. It states the recall will be repaired at no cost to me. However when I took the car to the dealer... Read more
Incident date: Mar 17, 2023
The engine seems to have failed. Yes it is available for inspection upon request. My safety was put at risk as the vehicle lost all power on the highway. Yes, the problem has been confirmed by a dealer or independent service center. Yes, the vehicle has been inspected, but due diligence needs to be done on the part of the inspectors to get at the root cause of the failure. No, that was one of the... Read more
Incident date: Mar 17, 2023
I was going 60 mph when the check engine light came on , the car started to jerk and reduce speed. I pulled onto the shoulder until the car stopped. I than proceeded to drive slowly and the turtle appeared on the dash. I drove about another mile until I reached my home doing 30 miles per hour or less.
Incident date: Mar 17, 2023
I was going 60 mph when the check engine light came on , the car started to jerk and reduce speed. I pulled onto the shoulder until the car stopped. I than proceeded to drive slowly and the turtle appeared on the dash. I drove about another mile until I reached my home doing 30 miles per hour or less.
Incident date: Aug 1, 2023
Rear left door handle will no longer open the door. Either from the interior or exterior. Unlocking and locking the vehicle does not resolve the issue. Fisker says to pull the interior door handle twice in case of emergency, but this does not manually actuate the door handle. Occupants would be currently stuck in my vehicle and unable to exit...
Incident date: Oct 10, 2023
The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 55 MPH, the vehicle began shaking violently and she observed a loud noise emanating from the engine compartment. The vehicle was stopped but the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who stated that there was no oil in the vehicle, and several unknown codes appeared on the... Read more
Incident date: Oct 10, 2023
Overheating, Burning Smell, Shuddering, Transmission Failure. The Safety concerns are that the vehicle will shut off/stall involuntarily The Safety Problem has been confirmed by a dealer. The Vehicle hasn’t been inspected by the Manufacture since 2017 by its previous owner. It was a pre-owned vehicle when I purchased it in 2023. I am not able to transport the vehicle to Nissan due to the CVT ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 6, 2023
The contact owns a 2018 Honda CR-V. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not ... Read more
Incident date: Jan 9, 2022
The contact owns a 2019 Ford Expedition. The contact stated while driving and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to exceed 60 MPH. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where an unknown software update was performed. Additionally, the contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle stalled. The contact also stated that the v... Read more
Incident date: Aug 14, 2023
I bought a 2022 BMW R18B motorcycle in 2023. There are 3 models of this motorcycle. R18 is plain without a fairing or smart controls. The R18 Transcontinental is top of line with fairing computer, navigation, phone pairing. The R18B which is my motorcycle is basically the same as Transcontinental except it does not have top case and rack for mounting top case. Here is the safety problem with the... Read more
Incident date: Jan 2, 2024
The ABS/EBS errors lights comes on and cruise control won't work. Did some research online seems like a common problem. Hoping to see a recall by Ram.
Incident date: Jan 2, 2024
The contact owns a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland. The contact received the NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V406000 (Fuel System, Diesel) which was completed. The contact stated that after receiving the recall remedy, fluid was leaking under the vehicle. The contact drove the vehicle to a dealer, where it was diagnosed that the fuel filter housing leaking fluid. The dealer recommended the contact go t... Read more
Incident date: Jan 2, 2024
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at 10 MPH, the vehicle lost power and would not shift out of gear. The contact stated that he observed a whining noise emanating from the engine compartment. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the residence. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it has not yet been diagnosed. The vehicle ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 12, 2024
While my 17 year old was driving down the highway, the vehicles low oil pressure light came on and just stopped accelerating, he was able to nurse it took it straight to our local mechanic, upon them just looking into it, they referred us to a Ford dealership due to the recall issued.
Incident date: Aug 1, 2023
The contact owns a 2018 Honda CR-V. 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 not 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 contac... Read more
Incident date: Nov 27, 2019
Radiator leak. Low coolant, had to keep adding coolant. Only 76000 miles on truck. No warning other than the coolant temp was going up and down as I accelerated.
Incident date: Mar 17, 2024
The contact owns a 2014 Chevrolet Cruze. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V870000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the repair was not yet available. No further information was provided. 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