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 35,035 complaints for SUBARU
Incident date: Jan 6, 2024
The contact owns a 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB 300. The contact received a recall notification NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V073000 (Electrical System) however the parts were unavailable. The dealer was contacted, the contact was informed that the parts were unavailable. The manufacturer was contacted, and a case was filed. The contact was informed that the parts were not available. In addition, the contac... Read more
Incident date: Jan 6, 2024
The contact owns a 2025 Toyota Tundra. The contact stated that after driving from a complete stop, the vehicle hesitated to accelerate while the accelerator pedal was depressed. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was dealer, who was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to Technical Service Bulletin: 0111-22 (Hesitation Fro... Read more
Incident date: Jan 6, 2024
Was moving forward when all of the sudden the tailpipe flew off (metal thing in the muffler). No real cause, moves the vehicle normally oyt of the driveway and it just flew off.
Incident date: Feb 20, 2026
Truck has 36,669 miles check engine light came on and was idling loud, after being looked at my a Chevrolet dealership came back a faulty radiator hose, and coolant was leaking. Too new of truck for this kind of problem
Incident date: Feb 20, 2026
Warning message on the dash. ABS and Traction lights illuminated. This is a DOT registered work truck which is out of service with no remedy available.
Incident date: Apr 30, 2026
tHE VEHICLE IS ACTIVATING EMERGENCY BRAKE ASSIST WITH NO OBJECT IN FRONT OF IT CAUSING THE BRAKES TO SLAM ON WHILE DRIVING. LANE DEPARTURE WARNING IS TRYING TO CORRECT/MOVE VEHICLE INTO A DIFFERENT LANE
Incident date: Apr 30, 2026
tHE VEHICLE IS ACTIVATING EMERGENCY BRAKE ASSIST WITH NO OBJECT IN FRONT OF IT CAUSING THE BRAKES TO SLAM ON WHILE DRIVING. LANE DEPARTURE WARNING IS TRYING TO CORRECT/MOVE VEHICLE INTO A DIFFERENT LANE
Incident date: May 2, 2026
the rear brakes keep engaging while the car is driving. we purchased the car in November 2022. this happened in December 2024 & at the time a dealership in [XXX] area (where my son attended college), said it was an issue and replaced parts in the brake system. yesterday while we were driving back from [XXX] to Houston - the brakes started to make loud squeaking noise as if they were engaged a... Read more
Incident date: May 3, 2026
In May 2025 the vehicle randomly, and without warning, the instruments, gauges, and displays switched to Italian, changed to Metric, and we got the update and FCW Off light stuck on. Numerous other settings had been reset. Took to dealer and had to pay for the fix - they noted a STAR bulletin on my invoice. Then this past weekend (May 2, 2026) it happened again. At least this time it didn't go Ita... Read more
Incident date: Dec 30, 2025
The clock spring system failed, rendering all of the cars' steering wheel functions non-functional. The airbag light is on and the steering wheels airbag does not operate as well as the cars horn and auto cruise controls. The instrument cluster is malfunctioning as well. The safety risks associated with the malfunctions could result in great harm to the driver and passengers in the vehicle.
Incident date: May 3, 2026
I am filing this complaint regarding a recurring and dangerous safety issue with my 2021 Subaru Forester. The auto stop/start feature intermittently fails to restart the engine after it shuts off when stopped. When this occurs, multiple dashboard warning lights come on, an alarm sounds, and the vehicle requires putting the transmission into "Park" and shutting it down completely before it will st... Read more
Incident date: Feb 20, 2026
In December 2025, I had brake replacement, tire service, and wheel alignment performed at Monro Auto Service located at [XXX] child were traveling on the highway during a winter storm when the brakes began making a loud banging noise. My wife was unable to immediately locate a service location and was forced to continue driving for an extended period in winter storm conditions while in fear for h... Read more
Incident date: May 1, 2026
Vehicle stopped at light,auto start stop engine off,stepped on gas to go engine didn’t restart,my passenger and I jumped out and grabbed a Noco GB40 jump box I carry and jump started car,we were on a road trip out of town and could not wait for the dealership so finished our trip with the auto start stop turned off and if we had a problem starting used the jump box.
Incident date: May 1, 2026
Vehicle stopped at light,auto start stop engine off,stepped on gas to go engine didn’t restart,my passenger and I jumped out and grabbed a Noco GB40 jump box I carry and jump started car,we were on a road trip out of town and could not wait for the dealership so finished our trip with the auto start stop turned off and if we had a problem starting used the jump box.
Incident date: May 1, 2026
Vehicle stopped at light,auto start stop engine off,stepped on gas to go engine didn’t restart,my passenger and I jumped out and grabbed a Noco GB40 jump box I carry and jump started car,we were on a road trip out of town and could not wait for the dealership so finished our trip with the auto start stop turned off and if we had a problem starting used the jump box.
Incident date: Apr 20, 2026
I had been hearing a humming noise for around a year and when reported to the dealer I was told that the rear electric motor had to be replaced. I had been researching online about this issue and apparently, is something a lot of Solterra owner have gone through. After a week of the car at the dealer, Subaru still doesn't approve the repairs that should be under Power Train guarantee. Should thi... Read more
Incident date: May 1, 2026
The contact owns a 2022 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while coming to a stop on several occasions, the vehicle unexpectedly stalled. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was able to be restarted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer. The contact was informed that the battery was functioning properly. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was m... Read more
Incident date: Apr 7, 2026
On the first day of receiving the car the windshield looked clear by day but it had little specks and lines like dust when driven at dusk and night of the first day it was driven. I brought it back to the dealer, they replaced it with a new one, and the problem persists. A clear windshield is much safer than one with specks.
Incident date: Apr 30, 2026
I was pulling into a parking spot almost stopped when the vehicle suddenly surged forward. I slammed on the brake and put the car in reverse since it had driven upon the walkway. This happened earlier today and I plan to have it checked out as soon as possible . Never have had this problem before, no warning lights or messages.
Incident date: Apr 30, 2026
I was pulling into a parking spot almost stopped when the vehicle suddenly surged forward. I slammed on the brake and put the car in reverse since it had driven upon the walkway. This happened earlier today and I plan to have it checked out as soon as possible . Never have had this problem before, no warning lights or messages.
Incident date: Apr 30, 2026
I was pulling into a parking spot almost stopped when the vehicle suddenly surged forward. I slammed on the brake and put the car in reverse since it had driven upon the walkway. This happened earlier today and I plan to have it checked out as soon as possible . Never have had this problem before, no warning lights or messages.
Incident date: Apr 15, 2026
Driving slowly in a parking lot, I applied the brakes as I approached a parking space. Instead of slowing down, the car inexplicably accelerated quickly and did not respond to increased pressure on the brakes. The car was propelled into a metal post, resulting in my glasses flying off and a seat belt bruise, although the airbag did not deploy. I was examined by ambulance personnel at the scene. Th... Read more
Crash
1 injured
Incident date: Apr 15, 2026
Driving slowly in a parking lot, I applied the brakes as I approached a parking space. Instead of slowing down, the car inexplicably accelerated quickly and did not respond to increased pressure on the brakes. The car was propelled into a metal post, resulting in my glasses flying off and a seat belt bruise, although the airbag did not deploy. I was examined by ambulance personnel at the scene. Th... Read more
Crash
1 injured
Incident date: Apr 15, 2026
Driving slowly in a parking lot, I applied the brakes as I approached a parking space. Instead of slowing down, the car inexplicably accelerated quickly and did not respond to increased pressure on the brakes. The car was propelled into a metal post, resulting in my glasses flying off and a seat belt bruise, although the airbag did not deploy. I was examined by ambulance personnel at the scene. Th... Read more
Crash
1 injured
Incident date: Jan 14, 2026
The contact owns a 2022 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while driving and coming to a stop, there was an abnormal oil-burning odor coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The dealer determined that there was an oil leak coming from the lower oil pan. There was oil dripping onto the exhaust system, creating a potential fire hazard. The manufacturer wa... Read more
Incident date: Feb 2, 2026
Highbeam shutters stop working. When engaged the solenoid engages, the shutter attempts to activate (wobbles) but never does. The indicator inside also lights up despite the shuttee never opening.
Incident date: Apr 1, 2026
When accelerating from a stop position while pushing on the accelerator the vehicle will not move. Takes a couple seconds. Almost struck by oncoming car when attempting to turn left onto Main road. Happens frequently. Next: left sliding passenger door doesn’t close all the way then opens back up. Takes several attempts before it decides to close or with my assistance. Third: rear cargo door shu... Read more
Incident date: Apr 28, 2026
The contact owns a 2018 Honda Civic. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the steering wheel was firm and was sticking while turning. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V663000 (STEERING); however, the VIN was not included in the recall repair. The vehicle was driven to the dealer, where it was confirmed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 28, 2026
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the engine was idling rough, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer to be diagnosed and it ws determined that there was coolant inside the engine cylinders and informed the contact that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The m... Read more
Incident date: Dec 1, 2023
Steering is sticky at highway speeds, steering wheel will not move without force that can cause lane departure. This is dangerous when attempting to follow the curve of the road. Component: steering rack. Inspection availability: yes. Safety: jerky steering and lane departure Reproduced: no, though it is a known issue among many Honda vehicles due to method of lubrication for the steering rack. In... Read more
Incident date: Dec 1, 2023
—The floor harness has failed due to poor design & location of the harness as it creates a trap for moisture. —Yes, this component is available for inspection upon request. —The safety of myself was in moderate jeopardy due to the air struts malfunctioning. —Yes, the problem has been reproduced by a dealer. —To my knowledge, the vehicle or component has NOT been inspected by the ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 1, 2023
—The floor harness has failed due to poor design & location of the harness as it creates a trap for moisture. —Yes, this component is available for inspection upon request. —The safety of myself was in moderate jeopardy due to the air struts malfunctioning. —Yes, the problem has been reproduced by a dealer. —To my knowledge, the vehicle or component has NOT been inspected by the ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 21, 2026
Approx 2nd week of March, steering wheel began to have 1” play both left and right. Scheduled an appt although there were no warning/indicators illuminated. The day before appt, while traveling at approx 30 mph, applying brakes and coming to a stop, the vehicle began to make a rumbling sound near the engine. On the same day traveling up hill about 40 mph, applying gas, sounded like scraping nois... Read more
Incident date: Mar 2, 2026
My Yukon Denali XL GM engine that was put in on 07/2022 has already failed. It failed as I was driving down highway at 65 mile per hour. It failed on 04/12/2025. I paid almost $7,000 to have my engine replace due to the original engine failing in early 2022. Now the engine that I paid thousands of dollars for has already failed and has no compression in cylinder 4. I have researched this and ... Read more
Incident date: Feb 27, 2026
I am filing a safety complaint regarding my 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe Premier for repeated brake assist/braking failures. Most recent incident: While driving, the check engine light came on. I turned the vehicle off for approximately 10 minutes and restarted it, but the check engine light remained on. Approximately 20 minutes later, multiple warnings appeared on the dash including: “Brake Assist Fai... Read more
Incident date: Dec 2, 2024
The steering wheel in the 2021 Honda CR-V LX is sticky and choppy when turning. Mostly when turning left or returning from a left turn. It makes turning through curves extremely dangerous because you cannot smoothly turn through the corners. I’ve asked the dealership to test drive the vehicle upon my first dealership visit for service at 16,000 miles. First bought at 11,000 miles as a certified ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 20, 2026
My truck was started in the morning and as it sat idle in the driveway I started attaching my trailer. By the time I got the trailer attached(20 seconds) there was smoke pouring out from under the hood. I immediately turned off the truck popped the hood and it was engulfed in flames. I was able to put out the fire with the garden hose. No check engine lights, no warning lights on dash, and I ... Read more
Fire
Incident date: Mar 10, 2025
WHILE DRIVING ON I-81 UP A STEEP GRADE, TRUCK SUFFERED A SUDDEN POWER LOSS, WITH SPEED DROPPING TO 35 MPH FROM 65 MPH. ATTEMPTS TO REGAIN SPEED FAILED AND IT FELT LIKE TRUCK DOWNSHIFTED TO A LOWER GEAR. 35 MPH CONTINUED UNTIL I DECIDED TO USE TRUCK CRUISE CONTROL TO ATTEMPT TO GAIN SPEED. I WAS WORRIED ABOUT TRACTOR TRAILERS HITTING ME DUE TO LOW SPEED. FINALLY GOT VEHICLE TO 65 MPH BUT WOULD N... Read more
Incident date: Nov 1, 2025
My 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X experienced an engine failure requiring full replacement under warranty. The vehicle was out of service for approximately 46 days. After replacement, the vehicle experienced additional electrical issues and unsafe operating conditions. The replacement engine has now failed again in under 8,000 miles. A dealership performed diagnostic testing (Pico scope) which failed... Read more
Incident date: Apr 23, 2026
The Jaguar range Rover dealership refused to fix the safety recall on my 2012 Range Rover. My car had been at the dealership JLR Midlothian VA since March 20,2026. They stated that there was no loaner car until April 13, 2026, possibly. Brian was the senior advisor sharing the information. I rented a car from Hertz rental in Fredericksburg VA for the initial date appt of March 13, 2026. I had ... Read more
Fire
1 injured
Incident date: Apr 24, 2026
The contact owns a 2026 Toyota Camry Hybrid. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V869000 (HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle made an abnormal rattling and humming sound. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, w... Read more
Incident date: Apr 6, 2026
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Edge. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 25V572000 (Back Over Prevention), 25V544000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic), and 20V469000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The dealer informed the contact that vehicle ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 6, 2026
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Edge. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 25V572000 (Back Over Prevention), 25V544000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic), and 20V469000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The dealer informed the contact that vehicle ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 6, 2026
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Edge. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 25V572000 (Back Over Prevention), 25V544000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic), and 20V469000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The dealer informed the contact that vehicle ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 22, 2026
Sudden unintended acceleration while braking. Engine revved against brake input. Has happened multiple times. Need to step on the brake hard and wait for it to pass.
Incident date: Apr 22, 2026
While driving my KIA Optima on the interstate the rear subframe suffered catastrophic structural failure, resulting in the steering wheel going out of alignment, the rear passenger side wheel tilting with the bottom of the tire being far out compared to the top. This resulted in the rear of the vehicle swaying side to side and being difficult to maintain in a straight path. This vehicle was prev... Read more
Incident date: Feb 13, 2026
Driver's side interior door handle mechanism broke during normal usage at 8 months/6,300 miles. Breakage occured within the door panel, leaving a non-functioning handle. After breakage, the door cannot be opened from the inside of the vehicle and the occupant cannot easily exit the vehicle.
Incident date: Feb 13, 2026
My low beam headlights for the past year burn out every 4 to 6 weeks. In the past 3 months, they began to burn out every 2 to 3 weeks. Recently I went to have my headlight changed once again and they told me that the headlight assembly kits were actually burnt/melted and would need replaced on both sides. The cost of those was quoted to be over $2000 each. I was also told that certain Ford Esc... Read more
Incident date: Feb 13, 2026
This 2024 Kia soul, 2 issues 1. the instrument cluster does not show, when turning the vehicle on the instrument cluster is blank, meaning I cannot see the speed limit, how much fuel or use any adaptive features, braking, lane departure, cruise control, etc ****this creates a dangerous situation and I do not believe the car is safe to drive**** I see there is a recall for this issue on 2... Read more
Incident date: Apr 6, 2026
The emergency brake system continues to come on and read all the type of stuff on the screen, as well as the LKAS keeps coming on the screen showing problems and when it does, the transmission or engines stalls a little and slows up and speed down on its on