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: 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
Incident date: Apr 6, 2026
My car has been in shop month at a time it lost all power to start with it has been torn up for the last 2 years 7 turbo 2 in one vist now it has metal saving in the motor ford say dealer ship is responsible dealer ship say ford but I lost my job have 2 kids and no way to go
Incident date: Apr 2, 2026
On April 15, 2026 Report filed with NHTSA from an accident-causing property damage due to a failure in the shifter mechanism while the vehicle was parked, ignition off, no keys in the vehicle and the brake pedal was NOT pressed. Manufacture initiated an investigation after we contacted their customer care line. Our vehicle was taken to a Toyota dealership on March 11, 2026. We received an email on... Read more
Incident date: Apr 2, 2026
Reverse lamps are not bright. Camera does not brighten area either. Very unsafe to reverse in the dark. Have to touch the brake pedal to be able to see while backing. Also have tried the LEDs in the mirrors while backing- although the LEDs are bright- lights to see while backing are insufficient on the stop lamps.
Incident date: Apr 2, 2026
The engine oil system failed due to a persistent oil leak that was present from the time of purchase on December 16th 2024. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request and is currently immobile due to a completely seized engine. My safety was put at serious risk because the vehicle has no functioning low oil warning indicator to alert the driver of critically low oil levels. I was driving... Read more
Incident date: Apr 18, 2026
The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V237000 (Power Train); 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 contact stated that... Read more
Incident date: Apr 1, 2026
The contact owns a 2021 Volkswagen ID.4. The contact stated that while driving on the highway at an undisclosed speed, the doors opened unexpectedly. An unknown warning light was illuminated, indicating that the door was open. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the issue. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V312000 (Structur... Read more
Incident date: May 1, 2025
I was driving on city streets at 25 mph or less, using the Nissan Leaf e-pedal system (which automatically slows the car to a stop when you let off the accellerator), when an alert flashed up on my dashboard, saying something like: “e-pedal system disconnected, use brake pedal to stop”. There was also a check engine light and an ABS warning indicator on. When I pushed down on the brake pedal I... Read more
Incident date: Feb 21, 2026
There's already a recall for gear down shifting for this model truck but cuts off as manufactured 8/17. My truck is doing the same thing. It's manufactured on 10/17.
Incident date: Feb 21, 2026
Recall N192265660 repair failed. Dealer stated that GM refused to participate in the repair. Smoke and smell of burning electrical followed by the rear window exploding. Dealer quoted over $1900 to repair and suggested we go aftermarket and have the repair done elsewhere. Vehicle has approximately 62k miles since last attempt to repair the recall.
Incident date: Mar 1, 2026
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); 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 contact stated that the image for the back over prevention camera was distorted while in reverse. The... Read more
Incident date: Mar 1, 2026
The contact owns a 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. Several dealers were previously contacted for recall inspection appointments, and the contact was informed that the manufacturer had denied the request to perform the service. A dealer was ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 20, 2026
While driving at approximately 70 mph on a highway under normal conditions, the vehicle experienced a sudden loss of engine power. A check engine light illuminated at the time of the failure, and the vehicle was unable to maintain normal acceleration or consistent speed. The loss of power created a hazardous situation in active traffic, as the vehicle could not safely maintain speed with surround... Read more
Incident date: Apr 20, 2026
The contact owns a 2017 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the steering wheel was stiff and failed to turn as needed. The message "Steering Assist Failure" was displayed with an unknown warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed. The vehicle was then taken to another independent mechanic, where ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 3, 2026
fuel smell Cannot make a service appt until June 2026 - at the earliest
Incident date: Apr 3, 2026
fuel smell Cannot make a service appt until June 2026 - at the earliest
Incident date: Apr 3, 2026
When Idle start/stop function is engaged and then goes to restart, the engine hesitates or fails to restart all together.
Incident date: Apr 18, 2026
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Explorer. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 24V031000 (Structure) and 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The contact stated that the exterior A-pillar trims had detached. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where tape was applied to the trims as a temporary fix. The vehicle ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 18, 2026
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Explorer. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 24V031000 (Structure) and 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The contact stated that the exterior A-pillar trims had detached. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where tape was applied to the trims as a temporary fix. The vehicle ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 18, 2026
My 2019 Kia Stinger GT2 with approximately 25,000 miles has been out of service since February 12, 2026 for diagnosis and repair of a system issue. The vehicle has remained at the dealership for over two months. Multiple repair attempts have been made, including escalation to Kia corporate engineering. Despite these efforts, the issue has not been clearly diagnosed and no permanent repair has bee... Read more
Incident date: Apr 10, 2026
I was driving 20 mph when I heard a loud crack, shortly after I noticed my windshield had a huge crack toward the bottom that has gotten progressively worse and affects my vision while driving.
Incident date: Apr 7, 2026
The driver attention warning incorrectly emits loud alarms, a coffee cup icon, and suggests the driver take a break. These warning alarms are not based on any discernable lack of attention, erratic driving, etc. They are RANDOM and ongoing, and when they begin, they repeat every few minutes. On this 2025 model - unlike prior years and models - this cannot/cannot be adjusted or turned off according... Read more
Incident date: Mar 15, 2026
Coolant bypass duct leaking at just 52,000 miles. Part is made of plastic and is a very common problem.
Incident date: Dec 31, 1969
My driver side headlight assembly stopped working. The headlight assembly includes the driving lights, high beams, and turn signals. I am open to having this product inspected upon request. This impacts the safety of me and others due to decreased visibility and the inability to appropriately indicate when I am turning. The dealer has not reviewed this yet, but I have a scheduled appointment on Fr... Read more
Incident date: Dec 31, 1969
My driver side headlight assembly stopped working. The headlight assembly includes the driving lights, high beams, and turn signals. I am open to having this product inspected upon request. This impacts the safety of me and others due to decreased visibility and the inability to appropriately indicate when I am turning. The dealer has not reviewed this yet, but I have a scheduled appointment on Fr... Read more
Incident date: Apr 8, 2026
- Vehicle: 2019 Audi Q8, VIN [XXX] - Recall: Campaign 25V900 (90TV), Rearview Camera Software - Dealer: Audi Marin, 700 Francisco Blvd W, San Rafael CA, BAR# XXX - What happened: Recall attempted April 1, 2026. Technician logged Error 005A — communication failure with front driver assistance — on RO #XXX. Vehicle returned with rearview camera non-functional and driver assistance systems unav... Read more
Incident date: Apr 1, 2026
What is causing the problem is unknown. Vehicle was at a complete stop at red light when releasing brake vehicle lunged forward hitting vehicle in front from behind so yes there has been an accident.. 2nd time was when first starting vehicle in the morning and putting vehicle in Drive when brake is released vehicle lunged forward at 7 miles an hour without touching the gas pedal. Dealer claims t... Read more
Crash
1 injured
Incident date: Jan 1, 2024
The contact owns a 2025 Ram 2500. 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 dealer was contacted and informed the contact that the part for the recall repair was available for brand new vehicles that were in inventory. The contact had not experienced a failure. T... Read more
Incident date: Apr 5, 2026
The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that while driving 35 MPH, the message “Service Stabilizer” was displayed and the power steering warning light was illuminated. The vehicle lost its power steering function, and the vehicle was difficult to steer. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 5, 2026
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Power steering / steering wheel responsiveness steering wheel "stuck" in position. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? On curved roads or roads at highway speeds, small steering corrections are not always possible. Excessive force must be used to "snap" the steering wheel out o... Read more
Incident date: Apr 5, 2026
The contact owns a 2024 Lincoln Nautilus. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 24V953000 (VISIBILITY), 25V337000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, EQUIPMENT), 26V165000 (BACK OVER PREVENTION, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) and 25V691000 (BACK OVER PREVENTION, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE), and the vehicle was taken to the dealer for the recall repairs; however, the dealer was unable to complete the ... Read more
Incident date: Sep 30, 2024
I am filing a safety complaint regarding my 2020 Ford Explorer (2.3L engine) experiencing a transmission-related failure. At approximately 112,000 miles, the vehicle began exhibiting a dangerous failure pattern. While braking, a loud mechanical noise occurs, followed by hesitation and inability to properly accelerate. The vehicle then displays a “Shift System Fault” warning. After this occurs... Read more
Incident date: Apr 3, 2026
The contact owned a 2021 BMW 330i. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V056000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that while driving approximately 45 MPH, there was smoke coming from under the passenger side f... Read more
Fire
Incident date: Apr 14, 2026
The contact owns a 2017 Ram 2500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not available. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the ABS and check engine warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was initially taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The diagnostic test determined th... Read more
Incident date: Apr 14, 2026
The contact owns a 2017 Ram 2500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not available. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the ABS and check engine warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was initially taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The diagnostic test determined th... Read more
Incident date: Apr 14, 2026
The contact owns a 2017 Ram 2500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not available. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the ABS and check engine warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was initially taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The diagnostic test determined th... Read more
Incident date: Mar 2, 2026
The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that while at a stop, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. There was no warning light illuminated. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 10... Read more
Incident date: Mar 2, 2026
The block heater on this car is leaking. The recall 26V011 does not apply to this VIN, even though it falls under the year, make, model category. How can I get my vehicle to have the recall done when it shows that it is not affected, even though it is clearly leaking.
Incident date: Mar 2, 2026
The block heater on this car is leaking. The recall 26V011 does not apply to this VIN, even though it falls under the year, make, model category. How can I get my vehicle to have the recall done when it shows that it is not affected, even though it is clearly leaking.
Incident date: Feb 7, 2026
See attached document for complaint.
Incident date: Apr 13, 2026
The contact owns a 2004 Honda CR-V. The contact stated that while seated in the vehicle, there was smoke coming from the driver’s side door and the power window master switch was melted. The contact refenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V768000 (VISIBILITY, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however, the VIN was not included in the recall repair. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired... Read more
Incident date: Jul 19, 2025
The contact owns a 2011 Ford Edge. The contact stated that the rear-view camera displayed a blank image while in reverse(R), and the side mirrors readjusted at start-up. Additionally, the power seat settings failed to remain programmed, and the power windows failed to roll down as needed. Over time, there was an abnormal wire-burning odor coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to a dealer ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 14, 2026
The contact owns a 2026 Volvo XC60MHEV. The contact stated that while driving on several occasions under different driving conditions, the vehicle experienced phantom braking. Additionally, while driving in a narrow driveway near a brick wall on an incline, the screen became inoperable. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and it wa... Read more
Incident date: Apr 14, 2026
My car would not go when i gave it gas on a major highway with mu 3 children in the back seat. We almost got into a wreck.
Incident date: Jun 27, 2023
Driving the vehicle with the cruise control on to remain at the posted speed limit and suddenly the vehicle went into Resume Control mode, began pulsing the brakes and engaged the flashers due to the Facial Recognition camera failed to recognize that I was looking straight ahead, and even pressing the accelerator pedal to override, nor pressing the "OK" button on the steering wheel to override ope... Read more
Incident date: Jun 27, 2023
Driving the vehicle with the cruise control on to remain at the posted speed limit and suddenly the vehicle went into Resume Control mode, began pulsing the brakes and engaged the flashers due to the Facial Recognition camera failed to recognize that I was looking straight ahead, and even pressing the accelerator pedal to override, nor pressing the "OK" button on the steering wheel to override ope... Read more
Incident date: Dec 3, 2025
Front strap on fuel tank is broken. It is a danger and being held in place by ratchet straps. It is also sagging.
Incident date: Apr 7, 2026
I have a 2019 GMC AT4 and it has stalled on the highway multiple times and smokes every time I started. I have read that the engine in it has been recalled on multiple other years but the one I purchased needs a $25,000 repair and it’s not safe to drive. There is not a current recall, but I’ve read that this engine on almost all the other trucks and SUVs that have it have had problems.
Incident date: Apr 13, 2026
The fuel system was causing my engine to shut down, and I got it replaced at a mechanic. About some time later, after fixing the fuel system, I received a letter from BMW telling me that they had extended the warranty on the Fuel tank, but when I took it in, they said that there was no such extended warranty. The letter is from April 2022, but I just recently found it.
Incident date: Jul 2, 2025
The vehicle will not shut off when you shift to park. You are forced to sit in the vehicle for extended periods of time attempting to get the vehicle turned off. Apparently Chevy is familiar with eat problem and there are pending class action law suits in Ohio. According to the dealership Chevy has acknowledged there is a defect but no recall has been issued. We have had this issue for about t... Read more