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 34,453 complaints for SUBARU
Incident date: Jan 31, 2024
I write to add my voice to the litany of complaints in support of NHTSA investigation DP23005. While on an interstate road trip recently the ABS, Traction Control, and Brake warning lights all came on. The brake felt squishy and didn't seem to be functioning as confidently as before. I altered my driving (giving plenty of distance, lowering my speed) so that in the event the brakes quit working I ... Read more
Incident date: Sep 26, 2024
The digital display that shows the driver gauge cluster that includes current speed, as well as other crucial information, is not functioning. It displays nothing other than the current gear selection. None of the audible collision safety features are functioning either.
Incident date: Jun 30, 2024
I am writing to report a persistent issue with my Chevy Malibu, specifically related to the Stabilitrak system. The Stabilitrak light intermittently flickers on and off while driving, which raises significant safety concerns. This malfunction has been ongoing, and despite efforts to diagnose the problem, my local auto mechanic has been unable to pinpoint the exact cause. Services Performed: Initi... Read more
Incident date: Jun 15, 2024
My teenage son was involved in an accident because of distraction caused by his he dashboard. Upon taking right turns with the right blinker, the LEFT blinker would subsequently illuminate for at least 4 blinks. Additionally, the CHECK ENGINE light was also illuminated. The vehicle only had less than 90miles on it. As he took a right turn at a 4 way stop, he was distracted by the left blinker and... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Sep 22, 2024
The contact owns a 2015 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact also heard a loud knocking sound coming from under the hood. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. Th... Read more
Incident date: Sep 27, 2024
My vehicle was not included in BMW Recall "23V-707: Replace Vanos Adjustment Unit Screw Connection" but has suffered the same failure described in this recall. My VANOS adjustment unit screws came loose and caused my engine to completely stall in the middle of traffic on a very busy road [XXX] ). I lost some braking ability and narrowly avoided a major collision. I've been having issues with misf... Read more
Incident date: Sep 27, 2024
See attached document for complaint.
Incident date: Sep 5, 2024
NHTSA Recall No: 22V-702, in 2022, was where there was supposedly an OTA update to stop the windows from increasing force in some situations when an object was stuck in the gap between the window and the frame. My 2021 Tesla received that update at the time, and I didn't think much of it...until January 2024 when it actually happened to me. I shut the door with my hand on the window, and at the ... Read more
1 injured
Incident date: Sep 25, 2024
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the check engine warning light illuminated. The dealer was notified of the failure and an appointment was scheduled for a diagnostic test to be performed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and it was discovered that there was coolant intrusion into cylinder #3. The contact was then provided an estimate to re... Read more
Incident date: Sep 14, 2024
Cam phaser issue. Chatter noise on cold start up. Guess this is a very common issue with this engine and vehicle
Incident date: Apr 30, 2024
The contact owns a 2024 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the automatic emergency braking system had malfunctioned and the vehicle did not stop when needed. The contact stated that while driving at a low rate of speed the collision avoidance system had activated, but the automatic emergency braking system did not activate, causing the vehicle to crash into the r... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Sep 13, 2024
The contact owns a 2024 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the automatic emergency braking system had malfunctioned and the vehicle did not stop when needed. The contact stated that while driving at a low rate of speed the collision avoidance system had activated, but the automatic emergency braking system did not activate, causing the vehicle to crash into the r... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Sep 26, 2024
Case number 240821-000271 was opened on 8/21/24 with Volvo Car USA Support. I have three main concerns: 1) The infotainment system losing the favorites that I have saved in the Sirius application. This had been an intermittent problem that I had been having since I purchased the car. I finally took it into the service department at Volvo Cars of Gilbert on 1/7/23 for this problem (Invoice Numb... Read more
Incident date: Sep 26, 2024
Case number 240821-000271 was opened on 8/21/24 with Volvo Car USA Support. I have three main concerns: 1) The infotainment system losing the favorites that I have saved in the Sirius application. This had been an intermittent problem that I had been having since I purchased the car. I finally took it into the service department at Volvo Cars of Gilbert on 1/7/23 for this problem (Invoice Numb... Read more
Incident date: Sep 26, 2024
The head unit on my 2018 Subaru Outback is pressing random buttons all over the screen by itself. It would constantly make the button noise as I drive leading me to lose track of the directions that was being provided from my Apple Maps. It would also disconnect me from CarPlay leaving me with no sense of direction as to where I should be going. I have gotten this fixed before at a Subaru dealersh... Read more
Incident date: Sep 26, 2024
The contact owns a 2018 Kia Optima. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The engine and oil warning lights were flashing on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who performed an oil consumption test. The vehicle failed the oil consumption test and determined that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil.... Read more
Incident date: Sep 19, 2024
There is a recall 17v-428 for the seat mat, and i went to my local BMW dealer and said this car was not on the list, but they acknowledge it’s the same issue but because this VIN was not included they can’t fix it at no charge . They want $2100 to repair. Can you help me ? Thanks
Incident date: Sep 19, 2024
The issue that I am experiencing has been intermittent, however it seems to be a safety concern that Nissan is not taking seriously. As I am driving at any speed with no cars around me the car collision icon will come on and flash as well as the front portion of the car in the advanced driver assistant system will flash yellow. This has happened on more than one occasion, but will always go away e... Read more
Incident date: Sep 23, 2024
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine was running extremely rough, with the check engine warning light illuminated. In addition, the contact stated that the coolant reservoir was being refilled every three to four days. The contact stated that there were no visible coolant leaks. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was di... Read more
Incident date: Aug 5, 2024
Light application of brakes causes a squeal when backing down driveway 1st drive of the day. Does not occur when vehicle has warmed up. 1600 miles on vehicle. Reported to dealer who could not replicate at first oil change at 1000 miles.
Incident date: Sep 13, 2024
Air bag light comes on. We have had it checked by 3 different technicians. They have found that it is an issue with the control module, and seat squibs need to be replaced. This is a $4000 issue that is directly related to the safety of the driver of the car. They said it looks to be a manufacturing issue but unfortunately is not covered by the extended warranty that we purchased.
Incident date: Aug 20, 2024
The contact owns a 2014 Honda Accord. The contact stated while cold starting the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start immediately. The contact stated that four or five attempts to start the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure occurred in cold or warm weather. The contact heard an abnormal grinding sound after each attempt to start the vehicle. The contact stated there was no warning light... Read more
Incident date: Aug 20, 2024
The contact owns a 2014 Honda Accord. The contact stated while cold starting the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start immediately. The contact stated that four or five attempts to start the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure occurred in cold or warm weather. The contact heard an abnormal grinding sound after each attempt to start the vehicle. The contact stated there was no warning light... Read more
Incident date: Aug 20, 2024
Bought vehicle from Carvana, immediately noticed transmission shudder issues when driving near 50 mph. Brought vehicle in to multiple repair facilities. It had warped brakes, bad calipers, needed a new torque converter at least and the repair shop recommended a total transmission replacement. The whole vehicle shakes when driving near that speed or braking.
Incident date: Jan 1, 2024
The EPS Rack and Pinion on my 2013 Ram 1500 is failing intermittently. There is a recall on many of the 2013 trucks but not mine for some reason. Why is the intermittently defective part on my any different than the ones being replaced on these others? Numerous times in the last two months, I have been turning when the PS failed and nearly caused a wreck. The truck has less than 70,000 miles on it... Read more
Incident date: Jan 1, 2024
They car has high oil consumption. It only has 70,000 miles on it. It should not use a quart of oil or more every 1000 miles. Need to be put on a recall. Engine just like people have said about 115000 miles or more your engine will possibly blow,or sieze up. No car should have that much oil consumption. I change or have my oil change every 3000 miles or close.
Incident date: Jun 23, 2024
Coolant is leaking I to the engine compartment.
Incident date: Sep 3, 2024
My 15 year old permit driver was driving the car and a power steering message flashed. The car became very difficult to steer and very difficult to pull to the side of the road. This could have caused a major accident. I was told when I called there was a recall for this in the past but had been fixed on this particular car. It must not have been fixed well. The car is not technically high mileage... Read more
Incident date: Sep 3, 2024
The contact owns a 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated that while the twelve-year-old child was seated in the second-row passenger side captain's seat, the seat belt locking mechanism malfunctioned and the seat belt was unable to be unlatched, causing the child to become trapped in the seat. The contact stated that scissors were used to cut the seat belt strap to free the child. The vehicle ... Read more
Incident date: Sep 3, 2024
Vehicle traveling W on [XXX] Bryan TX. Automobile suddenly started shaking and not developing power, Driver was able to pull off on the shoulder barely clearing the #2 lane. The engine would crank but not sustain operation. The auto required transport to the home garaging location. Subsequent analysis of the fuel showed it to be gasoline, no water, lacked appearance of any foreign matter. With th... Read more
SUBARU
WRX
(2020) — ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
Sep 23, 2024
Incident date: Aug 3, 2024
The contact owns a 2020 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving at 45-50 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated. There was an abnormally loud sound coming from the exhaust. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 48,000.
Incident date: Jul 10, 2024
My safety & the safety of others was at great risk while driving my 2018 dodge charger sxt. While driving my dashboard lights went completely dark and the steering wheel locked. I was unable to move out of lanes threatening my life and the life of others around me. Independent mechanic put scanner in my car days later and code that appeared was “U0100 Lost Communication With ECM/PCM” I looked ... Read more
Incident date: Sep 20, 2024
I currently have the following recalls; tailgate harness, hood latch striker, timing belt and fuel pump. I have contacted my local dealer and I am being told that there are no parts.
Incident date: Sep 21, 2024
When I am driving the car shutters a lot especially during acceleration. When I stop no shutters but when I begin to go shutters. I have been to the Pepboys where I get my car fixed all the time and they can’t find the problem. I spent lots of money on the suspension system already and still the same shutters. Will Gm find and fix the defect or they can just give me a brand new car.
Incident date: Sep 19, 2024
The forward collision warning system engages and slows the car, often very abruptly, when on the highway and only when cruise control is on. It happens after we have been on the highway for a few hours, thus the dealer cannot reproduce the incident. It happens a few times on every road trip and is very disturbing when there are no other vehicles or obstacles in the road or nearby. We have reported... Read more
Incident date: Aug 23, 2024
The contact owns a 2014 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that the sternum of the steering wheel where the front driver's side air bag was located was popping out, and the front driver's side air bag was visible and seemed to be partially deployed. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was unsafe to drive. The dealer was notified of the failure and advised the c... Read more
Incident date: Sep 5, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Edge. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was coolant cooling leaking into the cylinder and the vehicle made an abnormal sound. The vehicle was able to restart on the third attempt; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was driven to the independent mechanic and was diagnosed and determined that engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle... Read more
Incident date: Sep 16, 2024
My name is [XXX] , and I am the frustrated owner of a 2023 Hyundai Sonata SEL. For context, I am a [XXX] woman who had never experienced the frightening event of a “brand new” car breaking down—until now. I am still in shock and trembling from the experience I had with my “new” 2023 Hyundai Sonata on the morning of [XXX]. At 9:30 a.m., I was driving on [XXX] . I was driving the speed l... Read more
Incident date: Aug 27, 2024
The contact owns a 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS500. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the ABS and ESC warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the electronic stability control module. The contact was informed that the part had been discontinued. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but prov... Read more
Incident date: Aug 27, 2024
My mechanic could not clear the "Engine Maintenance Required. Visit the Dealer." message after a routine oil change on my 2020 Rav4. It turns out that the coolant bypass valve is defective. I am now aware of the many, MANY issues other Rav4 owners are having with this same part and that a class action suit has been filed.
Incident date: Jan 1, 2009
Upon purchasing and receiving the car from a dealership, I attempted to drive it around my neighborhood and after about 1 minute received a warning saying "safely stop now!" and the steering wheel locked and the power shut off in the middle of the street. The car would not turn back on and had to be towed to the dealership. The dealership (not Ford) already replaced the battery and that did not fi... Read more
Incident date: Sep 18, 2024
2023 Grand wagonner : Vehicle overheats while driving and completely stops in the middle of the road with no time to pull over safely. This is the second time it has happened in a year of owning it. Check engine light has been on since the first time it overheated and dealers say they don't know why.
Incident date: Sep 14, 2024
The contact owns a 2013 Kia Sorento. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) and would like to be removed from the recall distribution list. The local dealer and manufacturer were not contacted.
Incident date: Aug 19, 2024
The contact owns a 2022 Toyota Tundra. The contact stated that while getting the vehicle service and the dealer advised him the vehicle had uneven trade wear on the tires. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number that is unknown. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 19,560.
Incident date: Sep 16, 2024
On my 2018 RAM 3500 Duel rear wheel truck the ABS Pump Motor Control Unit is throwing a common code and warning lights intermittently that other year models have (C0020-01). This code has been confirmed by my dealer several times and this truck does not fall under any recalls for the ABS systems. I pull a 40 camper with this truck and with out the ABS and Traction control it could be very dange... Read more
Incident date: Aug 19, 2024
Front entry door opens while driving down the road. I have started deadbolt locking it. Lucky the hand rail folded in has caught the door from swinging out. Still could be dangerous for other drivers if something inside falls out of the RV.
Incident date: Jul 23, 2024
I purchased the vehicle with no issues upon driving the vehicle for about 3 months i started having issues with the vehicle overheating and low coolant warning messages one day i was driving home and the engine suddenly started smoking i turned the vehicle off and opened the hood the vehicle had not started ever since. i realized the vehicle has a recall for the engine coolant pump doing further ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 1, 2024
The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the vehicle stalled. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was restarted; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the engine failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The contact stated while driving... Read more
Incident date: Sep 12, 2024
A connecting rod bearing failed in the engine leading to catastrophic engine failure with the connecting rod breaking through the wall of the engine block causing a hole and undriveable vehicle. According to my research, this issue has been recalled in adjacent model years (2015-2016) but not in my model year (2013) that has the same engine. This issue has already been confirmed in these engines, ... Read more
Incident date: Aug 10, 2022
The contact owns a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the engine made an abnormal ticking sound. Additionally, the contact stated that while depressing the brake pedal, the brake pedal felt firm and failed to respond as needed. The contact stated that upon depressing the brake pedal two feet, the brake pedal travelled down as needed, causing the braking distance to be... Read more