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: Apr 10, 2025
My Ford Fusion eco boost 2017 had a faulty shifter cable bushing. When the vehicle turned off, parked (not on a hill thankfully due to safety and rolling backwards) thinking it was in park, it would not start and not go into gear and the vehicle would not shift into gears and the wrench light came on shift malfunction light came open. This was inspected, verified, and repaired at the Brandon For... Read more
Incident date: Jun 13, 2025
Fuel injectors. It is available for inspection. (Please!)This is the second failing of an engine, fuel or Powertrain issue. The car was in motion and suddenly just lost power. The first time it occurred about a month after purchased brand new in 2022, the car was coming from a stop light into the middle of an intersection. Driver was thankfully able to glide to side of road since it was early mor... Read more
Incident date: Jun 1, 2025
There are two problems we have had for many miles. 1. CVT- completely gone at 120K miles but we have had problems almost from the beginning (lease then bought). We were told by the Infiniti dealership they couldn't find anything (30-40K miles approximately) so we let it go thinking maybe it was the carpet mat rubbing up against the gas pedal that made the engine scudder, limp then go fast. Dealers... Read more
Incident date: Jul 20, 2023
I purchased this Ram Promaster 3500 in 2022. In 2023 I was in Canada and went to have a spare key made. The dealer was unable to program a key to the vehicle. When I returned home to the Seattle area I took the vehicle to a Seattle Ram Business link dealer. They were also unable to program a key. May of 2025 I took the vehicle in for work and asked them to continue investigating the key issue. The... Read more
Incident date: Jul 20, 2023
The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Rav4. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V734000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. 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 expe... Read more
Incident date: Jul 20, 2023
The sunroof of my vehicle spontaneously exploded as I was driving on the highway, shattering the entire sunroof and spilling broken shards of glass onto me and into my vehicle as I was going 70 mph on the highway. I had to cross 6 lanes of traffic, with glass flying off of my vehicle and bouncing around on the sunshade, with my hazards on, to get into an exit lane and get off of the highway. This ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 13, 2025
The contact owns a 2012 Ford F-150. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the timing chain and valve had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not di... Read more
Incident date: Jun 13, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission shifted into gear very hard. In addition, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with transmission failure. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was n... Read more
Incident date: May 21, 2025
See attached document for complaint.
Incident date: May 21, 2025
The contact owns a 2022 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving approximately 30 MPH, the vehicle stalled and failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, who diagnosed that the fuel pump was faulty and needed to be replaced. The fuel pump was replaced, and the vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the failure recently reoccurred while accelerating from a ... Read more
Incident date: May 21, 2025
The vehicle began knocking on the freeway and experienced a loss of power. It caused warning lights for the Electronic Traction Control and parking break system to light up.
Incident date: Nov 13, 2024
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. 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 contact had removed the A-pillar trim on the passenger’s s... Read more
Incident date: Jun 10, 2025
We are the original vehicle owners. The backup camera was replaced at a Ford Dealership on 3/26/20 because the screens were showing blank images and sometimes distorted images. at that time the mileage was 82564. Now the backup camera is doing the exact same thing, and the mileage is 144236. This is a safety issue backing up and can cause an accident. There have been recalls on most models but 201... Read more
Incident date: Jun 13, 2025
Vehicle shifts from park to drive jumping gears ,making loud noises, Accelerating by its self and jumps aggressively into gear. Transmission is slipping, late engagement when shifting, and shifting rough. sometimes it will low rpm. Rpm is going up and down. Making total transmission failure and transfer case failure. Melting the hot and cold lines. Mechanic found aluminum melted and oil burn. Rpm... Read more
Incident date: Jun 5, 2025
The contact owns a 2014 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was a loud knocking sound coming from the vehicle while driving over a speed bump. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a fractured rear sub-frame. The contact was informed that the sub-frame was corroded. The contact was informed that the rear sub-fram... Read more
Incident date: Jun 2, 2025
We purchased a new 2025 Jayco Melbourne and afterwards discovered the MBZ 3500 Chassis was a 2024.(6/19/2024) A 2025 MBZ 3500 chassis has a TPMS -factory installed system; 2024 no TPMS. I started to install an aftermarket TPMS and noted the tire valve stems were rubber. I couldn’t install the end cap sensors due to safety concerns about centrifugal force causing a failure of the rubber valve st... Read more
Incident date: Jun 12, 2025
1st incident cracked frame/suspension support for front suspension, 4 months to fix, 2nd incident oil pump, lifter failure, replaced under warranty. 3rd failure engine sieze while driving at 55-60 mph. Warning light flashed loss of oil pressure shut down immediately, put it in neutral to coat to side of road but moment I shifted to N engine failed, had to tow home cuz dealer was a month out to loo... Read more
Incident date: Jun 12, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that upon engaging the parking brake, the parking brake failed to remain engaged. Additionally, the contact stated that upon activating the A/C, the A/C was blowing hot air. The vehicle was taken to a Mazda dealer, where it was diagnosed that there was a blockage in the engine block heater. The dealer informed the contact that no authorizat... Read more
Incident date: May 22, 2025
The safety system needs serviced/repaired and the alert has been present for months, and investigated by GM licensed dealership but not repaired, after several requests. The safety of drivers and passengers has been neglected and the high risk for injury and death while occupying the 2021 Chevy Tahoe. Also on 06/11/2025 the EPS Power Steering system failed, with the system alert showing up on the... Read more
Incident date: May 22, 2025
The safety system needs serviced/repaired and the alert has been present for months, and investigated by GM licensed dealership but not repaired, after several requests. The safety of drivers and passengers has been neglected and the high risk for injury and death while occupying the 2021 Chevy Tahoe. Also on 06/11/2025 the EPS Power Steering system failed, with the system alert showing up on the... Read more
Incident date: May 9, 2025
The contact owns a 2005 Nissan Altima. The contact stated while driving approximately 45 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle made an abnormal grinding and whining sound. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where an unknown diagnosis was made, and the contact was referred to the dealer for assistance. The vehicle was ta... Read more
Incident date: Jun 11, 2025
I am writing to formally express my concern regarding a recurring issue with the Auto Start/Stop feature in my 2020 Acura MDX. This feature, which is intended to improve fuel efficiency, has instead caused unexpected and unsafe engine shutoffs while the vehicle is in operation. On multiple occasions, the vehicle has failed to restart promptly after the engine shuts off at a stoplight or in traffic... Read more
Incident date: Jun 10, 2025
Butts County Fire and Emergency Services made a report about the car catching on fire. There was an electrical problem and/or the engine caught on fire. My son’s fingers got burned and he was taking to the emergency room. Further neurological damage done to all of his finger tips. No warning car just blew up in fire. My son’s fingers could have died during the car fire.
Fire
1 injured
Incident date: Dec 11, 2024
"Stop Safely Vehicle Will Shut Off Soon" Message and vehicle stopped in the middle of the highway.
Incident date: Nov 27, 2024
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the engine failed to turn over. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where the vehicle was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the CP4 pump was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Nu... Read more
Incident date: Jun 6, 2025
The contact owns a 2011 Ram 1500. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 18V160000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) and 17V821000 (Power Train). The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the fuel tank detached from the vehicle. In addition, the contact stated an abnormal sound was coming from underneath the vehicle. The contact pulled to the side of the road and noticed the fuel tank ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 2, 2025
The overhead lights randomly turn on, which is incredibly distracting, especially when driving at night. Additionally, the moonroof has just stopped working. Although this is more of an inconvenience, I am concerned that both of these combined represent an electrical issue with the overhead console module, which can result in many more hazards if left without repair. There are no dash lights signa... Read more
Incident date: Jan 15, 2025
Unknown. Car was going 100 mph. Driver, my son , was killed in this car accident. This year make AND model is known for throttle acceleration issues with brake afail override non existent until later models. Case number [XXX] sterling heights police department INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash
6 injured
2 deaths
Incident date: May 2, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 24V031000 (STRUCTURE) and 25V347000 (STRUCTURE); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. 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.... Read more
Incident date: Dec 10, 2024
The contact owns a 2023 BMW X1 equipped with Bridgestone Tires, Tire Line: Turanza, Tire Size: 225/55/R18, DOT Numbers: 16C1005HC0723 (Rear Tires) and 16C1005HC0823 (Front Tires). The contact stated that upon taking the vehicle for service, the contact was informed that all 4 tires needed to be replaced. The contact was informed that the front tires had 1-millimeter of treadwear remaining, and the... Read more
Incident date: Jun 3, 2025
while turning a corner the power steering module shorted out the power steering rack gear assembly causing the vehicle to have control of the steering and unable to turn the wheel almost colliding with other vehicles. the power steering module light comes on along with the hill start assist, the forward collision warning, the ESM lights all come on. The steering wheel does not turn and had to tow... Read more
Incident date: Jun 3, 2025
The contact owns a 2022 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated while driving 80 MPH, there were several abnormal loud sounds coming from the vehicle and the vehicle lost motive power. The vehicle was drifted over to the shoulder of the road. The message “Shift to Neutral and Restart Vehicle” was displayed. The vehicle failed to restart. The contact performed an inspection under the hood and deter... Read more
Incident date: Jun 3, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the check engine warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that there was coolant intrusion into the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified ... Read more
Incident date: May 28, 2025
The contact owns a 2025 Ram 1500. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the failure occurred six days after the vehicle was purchased. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with multi-engine misfire, DTC: P0300. The contact was informed that a software update was needed. The vehicle was repaired.... Read more
Incident date: Feb 26, 2025
The rear brake lines, along with the rear subframe have experienced severe rust and corrosion.
Incident date: Jun 10, 2025
Replaced the RFH Hub twice in this vehicle do to water damage. 1st time under warranty, the 2nd out of pocket. Noticed the second time they replaced the Backlit light seal under an extended warranty (XL1 Warranty) where the water came in from. Both repair receipts enclosed and a picture of another vehicle they were replacing the seal while picking up my repaired vehicle. Investigation revealed... Read more
Incident date: May 28, 2025
4WD service light; 4WD System unavailable; clicking and grinding. Code diagnostic confirmed: C14*94 and C14*A797.
Incident date: May 28, 2025
Rear glass shattered for no reason. Heard this is a big issue with Hondas & Acuras. Dealership almost tried to make us go through our own insurance even though we bought it 2 days ago.
Incident date: May 26, 2025
Multipurpose camera failure. Lane keep assist, lane departure, adaptive cruise control
Incident date: May 16, 2025
GDI engine carbon buildup causing very high gas consumption and damage . Should carbon buildup break free it will cause engine falure resulting in engine seizure while at speed. Loss if property and life imment. Only soulition is disassembly to remove buildup. Another failure is corrosion on shift cable causing gear falure.
Incident date: May 16, 2025
GDI engine carbon buildup causing very high gas consumption and damage . Should carbon buildup break free it will cause engine falure resulting in engine seizure while at speed. Loss if property and life imment. Only soulition is disassembly to remove buildup. Another failure is corrosion on shift cable causing gear falure.
Incident date: Jun 3, 2025
I brought my vehicle in on 2/22/25 for a brake issue. I had to pump the brakes every time before I stopped to get the brake pedal to work. If I just hit the brakes the pedal would go almost to the floor. Greico Mazda has attempted 4 times to fix this issue with no success and has had my car in their shop for 4 months. I am now waiting for a Mazda rep to "fly in" to look at the car. They have repla... Read more
Incident date: Jun 4, 2025
The contact owns a 2025 Ram 1500. The contact stated while driving approximately 45 MPH, the steering wheel became very difficult to turn to the left or the right. The contact depressed the brake pedal, and the pedal was very soft. The contact stated that there were several unknown warning lights illuminated. The contact drove the vehicle back to the residence and then had the vehicle towed to a d... Read more
Incident date: Jun 4, 2025
Jumpy Transmission, when shifting gears vehicle pauses, jumps a bit, makes a noise, then shifts into the new gear. Everyone in the car jerks their head when the gears jump. The dealership has looked at the vehicle a few times, and say nothing is wrong. An outside mechanic looked and said this is a common problem with my make and model and it is a faulty transmission issue.
Incident date: Jun 4, 2025
The contact owns a 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while her son was driving 20 MPH, the vehicle failed to accelerate as needed. An unknown warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who determined that the fuel injectors needed to be replaced, but the parts were on backorder. The vehicle was then towed to a second dealer, AutoNation Hyundai Mall of Georgia ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 1, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Focus. The contact stated that while depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle hesitated and then jerked into the next gear. The contact stated that the hesitation occurred at various speeds. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that while slowing down, the vehicle hesitated, and then the transmiss... Read more
Incident date: Nov 1, 2024
Cameras fail to work with the camera button or when vehicle is in reverse which causes the sensors not to work either. Therefore you cannot see if you are too close to something and the sensors dont go off to notify you that you are close too close to an object. Huge safety concerns
Incident date: Jun 1, 2025
2025 Ram 1500 V6 eTorque hydraulic tensioner for MGU belt caused belt to break while traveling out of state from NY to NC. This caused the battery waning light to come on and also the CEL. Vehicle would not charge and would not run properly, all advanced safety features diminished. Vehicle brought directly to Dodge dealership in Laurel MD during incident. Vehicle was repaired on 6/6/2025 at Dodge ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 1, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the vehicle would roll away while parked on an incline and required that the vehicle be parked on level ground. The contact stated that the electric parking brake was inoperable. Addition... Read more
Incident date: Jun 1, 2025
I am having transmission problems. My transmission accelerates late.