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 30,183 complaints for RAM
Incident date: Mar 28, 2026
On November 28, 2025, my 2025 Volvo EX90 displayed a headlight warning message on the dashboard and the headlights failed to function properly while parked and after starting the engine. The defect temporarily resolved but recurred on December 5, 2025. A headlight defect that is not immediately apparent to the driver poses a serious safety risk before or during nighttime driving. The symptoms are ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 28, 2026
On November 28, 2025, my 2025 Volvo EX90 displayed a headlight warning message on the dashboard and the headlights failed to function properly while parked and after starting the engine. The defect temporarily resolved but recurred on December 5, 2025. A headlight defect that is not immediately apparent to the driver poses a serious safety risk before or during nighttime driving. The symptoms are ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 8, 2019
The adaptive speed control is supposed to react to changes in speed limits. It also reacts to bridge capacity signs. This causes a sudden change in speed that the occupants and the following vehicle did not expect. In one location the speed limit is 50mph and there is a bridge with a 20 ton limit. The vehicle brakes to slow down to 20mph when passing the sign.
Incident date: Mar 8, 2019
VEHICLE: 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 VIN: [XXX] COMPONENT: Power train, automatic transmission DESCRIPTION: When the vehicle is placed in Park with the engine running, the vehicle experiences an intermittent jolting or lurching sensation approximately every 5 seconds, accompanied by an audible clicking sound. The jolting is most pronounced immediately after shifting from Reverse into Park, and gr... Read more
Incident date: Oct 11, 2024
The car is dead if you do not drive it every 4 days. The battery and system have no power. It has happened multiple times over the past year. Have taken the car to Castle Hyundai of Downers Grove, IL. To date no resolution has been reached wh6 my car looses power. The dealer ran computer checks. Verified the battery had to be reset multiple times. Could not identify any issues with battery... Read more
Incident date: Oct 11, 2024
The vehicle harness is burned and under recall sc206 for HECU fuses that was allegedly repaired which should have required a check of the harness connections . part number 91223f6632 is for the wire harness during engine replacement for campaign wty039 I was told the harness was melted and needed replacing , dealer put the car back together and told me we had to wrap up the work and return rental ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 27, 2022
The Abs light came on a couple of days before the accident happened.Then light would turn off after awhile but would re appear when truck was driving for a few minutes. My boyfriend was driving to work when he applied the brakes and truck slid into the pole during the winter .Truck was towed and fixed at auto shop. No one was hurt just damaged my truck completely in the front. When I got a letter ... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Dec 27, 2022
I am writing to formally notify NHTSA of a serious safety incident involving my 2013 Nissan Rogue. My vehicle experienced an electrical fire while parked in my driveway following heavy snowstorms and road salt exposure. The vehicle was stationary at the time of the incident. My insurance company declared the vehicle a total loss. There were no warning lights or other symptoms prior to this incide... Read more
Fire
Incident date: Mar 14, 2026
I was informed that many cars of my make, and model have been recall they will not take into consideration the fact that it’s a safety concern for me now even though I’ve seat didn’t ask questions in regards to this car I know that this car in particular has had over 12,000 recalls for cars between 2022 and 2024 and I’ve asked the dealership to go ahead and see if they can assure me that m... Read more
Incident date: Jun 25, 2025
after purchasing from carmax 6 months later the paint above the windshield is peeling off in huge chunks. the color is snow pearl white. having large chunks of solid paint flying around can decrease visibility for both the driver of the vehicle and others should the pieces go on the windshield obstructing full view, this is a safety issue. i have called carmax and have not heard back - it has been... Read more
Incident date: Mar 13, 2026
Fuel smell in the cab of the vehicle.
Incident date: Dec 30, 2025
On December 29, 2025, the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster on my 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime went completely blank upon startup. This failure immediately eliminated my ability to see the speedometer, fuel and battery levels, tire pressure warnings, and all critical brake and hybrid system malfunction indicators, rendering the vehicle completely unsafe and illegal to operate on public roads. I imme... Read more
Incident date: Dec 30, 2025
On December 29, 2025, the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster on my 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime went completely blank upon startup. This failure immediately eliminated my ability to see the speedometer, fuel and battery levels, tire pressure warnings, and all critical brake and hybrid system malfunction indicators, rendering the vehicle completely unsafe and illegal to operate on public roads. I imme... Read more
Incident date: Dec 30, 2025
On December 29, 2025, the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster on my 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime went completely blank upon startup. This failure immediately eliminated my ability to see the speedometer, fuel and battery levels, tire pressure warnings, and all critical brake and hybrid system malfunction indicators, rendering the vehicle completely unsafe and illegal to operate on public roads. I imme... Read more
Incident date: Feb 1, 2021
I was driving on the freewayin the night time on several occasions and the Emissions light and check engine light comes on and the car lost speed and would not accelerate. I had to put my hazards on to exit the freeway slowly to pull over turn the car off, sometimes this corrects the problems. but this has happened on several occasions. the vehicle is now at the dealer being diagnostic, they end u... Read more
Incident date: Oct 13, 2024
The internal core of the Exhaust Heat Recovery System (EHRS), part of the center muffler/front pipe assembly (#28600-L5210), suffered a catastrophic failure. This allowed approximately 9 gallons of engine coolant to leak directly into the hot exhaust stream. Safety Risk: This failure creates a severe visibility hazard. During acceleration from stop lights and stop signs, the vehicle emits massive,... Read more
Incident date: Jan 28, 2026
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at 35 MPH, there was an abnormal knocking sound coming from the engine, and the vehicle lost automotive power. The oil pressure warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with excessive oil consumption. An oil consumption test and combustion cleaning were performed; however, t... Read more
Incident date: Aug 11, 2025
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Forward Collision Warning How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The car braked on the highway and caused me to get rear ended. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? No Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufactur... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Mar 12, 2026
I am reporting an unreasonable delay in the remedy for NHTSA Recall 25V-668 (Toyota Recall 25TA12). My 2025 Toyota Sienna has been subject to Interim Notice 25TB12 for approximately 170 days. Per Toyota’s official safety instructions, I have been directed to ensure that 'no one sit in or use a child restraint in any second-row seat while the vehicle is in motion.' Despite this recall being acti... Read more
Incident date: Mar 19, 2026
I am reporting an unreasonable delay in the remedy for NHTSA Recall 25V-668 (Toyota Recall 25TA12). My 2025 Toyota Sienna has been subject to Interim Notice 25TB12 for approximately 170 days. Per Toyota’s official safety instructions, I have been directed to ensure that 'no one sit in or use a child restraint in any second-row seat while the vehicle is in motion.' Despite this recall being acti... Read more
Incident date: Mar 7, 2026
The contact owns a 2013 Chrysler 200. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the passenger’s side air bag unexpectedly deployed without the vehicle being in a crash. There was no warning light illuminated. Due to the failure, the passenger’s seat became inoperable and could not be adjusted or properly positioned. The dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnos... Read more
Incident date: Feb 2, 2026
Unknown
Incident date: Feb 2, 2026
The contact owns a 2019 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the message "Engine Maintenance Required - Visit the Dealer" was displayed on the screen. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the coolant flow control valve needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired out-of-pocket. Upon further investigation, the... Read more
Incident date: Mar 4, 2026
I started to brake on Peck Road. I turned into my driveway and as I started to come to a complete stop, the brake pedal went to the floor and the brakes did not engage and I went over a landscape wall. I have a video of the event from my ring camera. I went on-line and noticed that other Pacifica owners have had an issue similar to this one.
Incident date: Mar 4, 2026
Engine Failure at 18,000. Knocking noise started immediately followed by vehicle going into low power mode. Dangerous to drive in traffic in low power mode. No other warning lamps or indications that something was wrong. Dealer inspected and found a bearing went out in the engine.
Incident date: Jun 1, 2025
Battery keeps going dead 4 batteries in 4 months think it is caused by power tailgate release
Incident date: Mar 20, 2026
While driving, the vehicle stutters during acceleration, creating hesitation and inconsistent power delivery. This occurs during normal driving conditions and has not improved after being inspected by a dealership. The issue has been reproduced multiple times and remains unresolved. The vehicle was taken in for service, but no effective repair was provided, and the condition persists. There is a... Read more
Incident date: Jun 1, 2024
this recall has been active since 2023. I was told a remedy would be available ladder 2024…. I received another letter in September 2025 reminding me of the recall and it is now March 2026 with no current remedy available. This vehicle was used for my work vehicle and I am no longer able to use it to make income due to it having a recall. This has been a major problem. These parts also seem to b... Read more
Incident date: Mar 25, 2026
My car started shutting down while driving. After the engine started seizing the key wouldn't turn in my ignition. Took car to dealership immediately on 10, 2026. Took again in 2024 for recall and other repairs. Found out after requesting previous service incidents they failed to do recall repairs and never notified me of it, or to come back. I've requested current diagnostic report several times ... Read more
Incident date: Mar 25, 2026
My car started shutting down while driving. After the engine started seizing the key wouldn't turn in my ignition. Took car to dealership immediately on 10, 2026. Took again in 2024 for recall and other repairs. Found out after requesting previous service incidents they failed to do recall repairs and never notified me of it, or to come back. I've requested current diagnostic report several times ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 23, 2025
I am concerned that there is no remedy for seat belts in 1/2 row and there is a risk of injury in the event of an accident in third row, I have two young children and feel there are no safe seating arrangements in the event of an accident and remedy identified.
Incident date: Feb 14, 2026
The contact owns a 2025 Toyota Sienna Hybrid. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V668000 (Seats). The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer declined a buyback. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The manufacturer informed the contact that there was no time frame for when parts would become availa... Read more
Incident date: Feb 14, 2026
Vehicle experienced multiple safety-related failures at approximately 500 miles. The failures included complete instrument cluster loss (no speedometer or gauges), unpredictable windshield wiper operation, headlight flickering, complete loss of brake lights and turn signals, rear liftgate malfunction, and airbag/seatbelt warning indicators. These issues created unsafe operating conditions, includ... Read more
Incident date: Feb 14, 2026
Vehicle experienced multiple safety-related failures at approximately 500 miles. The failures included complete instrument cluster loss (no speedometer or gauges), unpredictable windshield wiper operation, headlight flickering, complete loss of brake lights and turn signals, rear liftgate malfunction, and airbag/seatbelt warning indicators. These issues created unsafe operating conditions, includ... Read more
Incident date: Jan 14, 2026
Vehicle experienced multiple safety-related failures at approximately 500 miles. The failures included complete instrument cluster loss (no speedometer or gauges), unpredictable windshield wiper operation, headlight flickering, complete loss of brake lights and turn signals, rear liftgate malfunction, and airbag/seatbelt warning indicators. These issues created unsafe operating conditions, includ... Read more
Incident date: Jan 14, 2026
On [XXX], while driving my 2021 Ram ProMaster 2500 at highway speed in Florida, the van suddenly lost all power and came to a near stop, then re-engaged. Vehicles were in front and behind me, creating an immediate risk of serious collision, injury, or death. I pulled over ~30 minutes, restarted, but it could not exceed 20 mph while RPMs were high. AutoZone confirmed limp mode and advised a dealer.... Read more
Incident date: Mar 25, 2026
THIS IS MY 3RD COMPLAINT (Ref: Previous Reports). THE VEHICLE IS NOW A TOTAL LOSS. 1. UNRESOLVED ENGINE/STEERING (Prior Complaints): This 2013 Malibu has a documented history of sudden engine stalling and total loss of power steering at highway speeds. Despite reporting this twice to the NHTSA and to GM, the manufacturer failed to provide a remedy. 2. RECENT SYSTEMIC COLLAPSE: Prior to the car bec... Read more
Incident date: Mar 25, 2026
THIS IS MY 3RD COMPLAINT (Ref: Previous Reports). THE VEHICLE IS NOW A TOTAL LOSS. 1. UNRESOLVED ENGINE/STEERING (Prior Complaints): This 2013 Malibu has a documented history of sudden engine stalling and total loss of power steering at highway speeds. Despite reporting this twice to the NHTSA and to GM, the manufacturer failed to provide a remedy. 2. RECENT SYSTEMIC COLLAPSE: Prior to the car bec... Read more
Incident date: Mar 16, 2026
The contact owns a 2025 Ram 1500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V059000 (Exterior Lighting, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The ... Read more
Incident date: Feb 4, 2026
Vehicle door handles are prone to failure and unresponsive for the lock/unlock. Potential safety concern for customers like myself which should be brought to Lincoln’s attention. Driver side door handle and other door handles known to be unresponsive when locking/unlocking with keys or pressing button behind door handle.
Incident date: Mar 25, 2026
The contact owns a 2019 Ford F-250 equipped with Cooper Tires, Tire Line: Discoverer AT3, Tire Size: 295/60/R20, DOT Number: (N/A). The contact stated that while driving 60 MPH and hauling a trailer, the vehicle jolted into oncoming traffic and started wobbling. The contact regained control of the vehicle and eventually steered to the side of the road and parked the vehicle. The contact became awa... Read more
Incident date: Feb 2, 2026
The panoramic sunroof gets stuck in the open position and also the motor makes a clicking sound. It is not opened all the way hardly at all, maybe 5 times a year if that. The problem is all over the internet and the dealerships routinely denies any knowledge of it and wants anywhere from 7k to more to fix the entire roof. This is very unprofessional and should not be swept under the rug. Repor... Read more
Incident date: Feb 2, 2026
ICCU failure occurred while vehicle was operating at 30 MPH, after being charged the night prior and unplugged in the morning at 100% capacity. A sudden pop was heard, and the vehicle indicated that an electrical fault would require the vehicle to be shut down as soon as safely possible. The vehicle went into limp mode and would not exceed 25 MPH.
Incident date: Feb 2, 2026
ICCU failure occurred while vehicle was operating at 30 MPH, after being charged the night prior and unplugged in the morning at 100% capacity. A sudden pop was heard, and the vehicle indicated that an electrical fault would require the vehicle to be shut down as soon as safely possible. The vehicle went into limp mode and would not exceed 25 MPH.
Incident date: Mar 22, 2026
Vehicle Information 2021 Ford F-150 PowerBoost VIN: [XXX] Complaint Description While driving approximately 70 mph on a highway, my 2021 Ford F-150 PowerBoost suddenly displayed a “Stop Safely Now” message and immediately lost propulsion. The engine shut down without warning while I was in active traffic. After the shutdown, the vehicle automatically shifted into park and would not allow me t... Read more
Incident date: Feb 2, 2026
The contact owns a 2022 Hyundai Palisade. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 26V034000 (Air Bags) and 25V607000 (Seat Belts). The contact stated that the letter for the seat belt recall anticipated a fix by February 2026. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repairs. The manufacturer was not informed of the issu... Read more
Incident date: Feb 2, 2026
After run collant pump caught fire and damaged the engine wiring harness. I reported it to progressive insurance and they came and inspected it at a body shop. They concluded it was due to an open recall on the vehicle so insurance refuses to cover it. Had car towed to Audi dealership and they reported it to Audi USA. They came back and told me that because of the mileage and year of the vehicle t... Read more
Fire
Incident date: Dec 10, 2025
"Verified internal hydraulic cross leak due to CDF drum bushing movement. Transmission has delayed engagement in 4th, 5th, and 6th gears. This is a known manufacturing defect in the 10R80 transmission."