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 23,203 complaints for TESLA
Incident date: Dec 3, 2024
Two Lug studs broke on opposite wheels from torque issues caused when rotating tires. Based on speaking with both the dealer and the tire shop, they said this is a common issue with Subaru's. Fortunately this happened while the tires were being replaced and not while driving. Had 2 of the lug studs broken on the same tire and I had not been aware, this could cause safety issues for both myself ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 3, 2024
The rack and pinion needs to be replaced with just over 63k miles. This appears to be a common occurrence amongst 2008-2012 Honda Accords but it appears Honda is ignoring the issue. I have included a forum of complaints from owners that have very low mileage. Could you please look into this? [XXX] [XXX] , [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552... Read more
Incident date: Dec 4, 2024
The contact owns a 2012 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle, the steering motor sense fault message was displayed on the instrument panel. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the steering wheel operated as needed; however, the contact was concerned about the message that was displayed and a possible failure while driving. The local dealer was contacted; ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 4, 2024
The contact owns a 2024 Vinfast VF8. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the Lane Assist feature constantly jerked the vehicle back to the center of the lane. The contact stated that the safety feature was very sensitive and was active upon the slightest drift. The contact was able to manually turn off the feature upon start of the vehicle; however, the contact stated that the... Read more
Incident date: Dec 4, 2024
The contact owned a 2023 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated while driving at 35 MPH, a vehicle was coming towards her in the opposite direction making a left turn, and she collided with another vehicle on its front passenger side. No air bags were deployed. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was then towed by her insurance company. The vehicle was deemed a total loss. The ... Read more
Crash
2 injured
Incident date: Dec 19, 2024
The contact owns a 2019 Ford F-150. The contact stated while driving at approximately 65 MPH, the vehicle stalled. No warning light was illuminated; however, the "Check Service Manual" message was displayed on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the... Read more
Incident date: Dec 5, 2024
Fuel pump module leaking fuel causing fuel to drip onto the exhaust pipe. Potential fire hazard to occupants and occupants of area it is parked near. Yes the dealer and repair shop have confirmed it has cracked when it should not. It has only been inspected by the repair shop due to immediate safety concern. The symptoms were a very strong fuel odor and a puddle of fuel on the ground in the begin... Read more
Incident date: Dec 5, 2024
This was new vehicle in the dealer parking lot with 215 miles on it. I took it for a test drive with the sales person in the city next to me on the passenger seat.I was on the interstate with adaptive cruise control on. When the electric breaks failed and all kinds of information popped up on the screen. The display screen toggled between, "Brake System Failure - 62 MPH Top Speed" and "Service ES... Read more
Incident date: Dec 5, 2024
This was new vehicle in the dealer parking lot with 215 miles on it. I took it for a test drive with the sales person in the city next to me on the passenger seat.I was on the interstate with adaptive cruise control on. When the electric breaks failed and all kinds of information popped up on the screen. The display screen toggled between, "Brake System Failure - 62 MPH Top Speed" and "Service ES... Read more
Incident date: Dec 5, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, the driver's seat belt became inoperable. The contact stated that the seat belt failed to properly retract or properly restrain the contact while driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the seat belt assembly had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was no... Read more
Incident date: Dec 5, 2024
Backup camera inop. I took it to dealer for repair and they said they could not repair due to age and parts availability.
Incident date: Dec 5, 2024
The following information refers to recall notice 19V544000 "SERVICE BRAKES" and "ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL" (recall number same for both notices) by Toyota for the 2019 Rav 4 Hybrid: "In 2019, Toyota issued a recall for certain 2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vehicles due to a faulty brake assist system, specifically related to a potential issue with the brake booster pump which could lead to brake f... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Dec 5, 2024
I was on the exit for union turnpike on the gcp at a good 40 miles per hour when boom a whole bunch of lights popped up on the dash saying see dealer and 3 lights come on the top right. By the grace of god the car infront of me was very far and i was able to drop the car into manual mode drop gears while turning wheels slowly go into bumps and i slowed down when i came around the corner to a full ... Read more
TESLA
CYBERTRUCK
(2024) - FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Dec 19, 2024
Incident date: Nov 11, 2024
What support can i obtain if a vehicle manufacturer is not appropriately responding and taking action to address the open Paccar Recall E317 where it states they will reimburse a fleet owner for the pruchase cost of fuel additive to address their repeated failures of their fuel injectors
Incident date: Dec 4, 2024
The item currently malfunctioning is the instrument cluster and infotainment display of the vehicle. While driving, the instrument cluster and infotainment display intermittently flashes on and off while the vehicle is in motion, resulting in the speed and other information to disappear while moving. Dealer has not been able to replicate the issue due to it being intermittent. The component was in... Read more
Incident date: Dec 17, 2024
Internal computer failed on two occasions in first 3 months of ownership. The internal computer controls nearly all safety features related to visibility and navigation. This includes failure of the backup cameras, lane change cameras, adaptive cruise, blind spot assist, and other driver assist safety features. Without these functioning systems the vehicle immediately becomes unsafe to drive. ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 17, 2024
Internal computer failed on two occasions in first 3 months of ownership. The internal computer controls nearly all safety features related to visibility and navigation. This includes failure of the backup cameras, lane change cameras, adaptive cruise, blind spot assist, and other driver assist safety features. Without these functioning systems the vehicle immediately becomes unsafe to drive. ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 17, 2024
Head gasket leak. Went from zero issues with coolant whatsoever to the car smelling like it was burning after being turned on and being deemed unsafe to drive requiring a tow to the dealership for repair. Once there, head gasket replacement deemed necessary. Seems to have been a very an abrupt change. Luckily in this instance the car was parked and did not actually catch fire but I am concerned fo... Read more
Incident date: Aug 27, 2024
My vehicle has had recalls performed multiple times since 1st purchased in 2012. The issue was vehicle stalling. At 1st Chrysler / Dodge addressed it as issues upon start up where the vehicle sounded as though it was skipping when hitting the ignition button. They attempted to remedy this with multiple fuel pump relay recalls. They attempted to do internal which did not work. They then went extern... Read more
Incident date: Aug 27, 2024
My vehicle has had recalls performed multiple times since 1st purchased in 2012. The issue was vehicle stalling. At 1st Chrysler / Dodge addressed it as issues upon start up where the vehicle sounded as though it was skipping when hitting the ignition button. They attempted to remedy this with multiple fuel pump relay recalls. They attempted to do internal which did not work. They then went extern... Read more
Incident date: Aug 27, 2024
Engine failed at highway speeds resulting in loss of power. Dealer found debris from manufacturing process in engine that caused a bearing failure. Vehicle only has 7,500 miles on it at time of failure.
Incident date: Nov 11, 2024
Driving out of parking lot at 15 mph, loss of power, unable to accelerate, message warning on dash stating brake problem. Message states reduced braking issue, see dealer. With a couple of tries while stopped, was able to restart the car. Braking problem message remained on dash. Drove about 6 miles to dealer. Parked the car. Shut off. Restarted in front of service advisor. The brake problem messa... Read more
Incident date: Nov 11, 2024
Driving out of parking lot at 15 mph, loss of power, unable to accelerate, message warning on dash stating brake problem. Message states reduced braking issue, see dealer. With a couple of tries while stopped, was able to restart the car. Braking problem message remained on dash. Drove about 6 miles to dealer. Parked the car. Shut off. Restarted in front of service advisor. The brake problem messa... Read more
Incident date: Nov 11, 2024
While driving in the rain, the vehicle failed to decelerate and brake efficiently. There were two event this morning (12/18/24). 1. Approaching a red light with Regen braking set to lvl 3 the car failed to slow after removing my foot from the accelerator. Quickly i began applying braking force with the brake pedal, but there was no change in the vehicles speed. Finally I firmly forced the brake pe... Read more
Incident date: Dec 7, 2024
Here is my draft: Vehicle Information: • Make: Tesla • Model: Model Y • Year: 2025 Description of the Problem: After a software update pushed by Tesla, the AP4 computer in my 2024 Tesla Model Y shorted out, causing a complete failure of all systems controlled by this computer. The following safety-critical and driver-assist features have become non-functional: 1.Cruise Control (ada... Read more
Incident date: Dec 7, 2024
Here is my draft: Vehicle Information: • Make: Tesla • Model: Model Y • Year: 2025 Description of the Problem: After a software update pushed by Tesla, the AP4 computer in my 2024 Tesla Model Y shorted out, causing a complete failure of all systems controlled by this computer. The following safety-critical and driver-assist features have become non-functional: 1.Cruise Control (ada... Read more
Incident date: Dec 7, 2024
Here is my draft: Vehicle Information: • Make: Tesla • Model: Model Y • Year: 2025 Description of the Problem: After a software update pushed by Tesla, the AP4 computer in my 2024 Tesla Model Y shorted out, causing a complete failure of all systems controlled by this computer. The following safety-critical and driver-assist features have become non-functional: 1.Cruise Control (ada... Read more
Incident date: Dec 13, 2024
Push-button tailgate electrical failure. Tailgate opens on its own while driving and while truck is off. This is a known issue that has already been recalled by GM but my truck was not included in the recall, even though the problem and repair are exactly the same as the currently recalled vehicles. I had to pay a GM Dealership to make the repair as the vehicle was unsafe to drive due to potential... Read more
Incident date: Dec 13, 2024
The contact owned a 2019 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving 30 MPH, a Kia Forte ran a red light traveling at approximately 70 MPH, T-boned/crashed on the passenger side, which pushed the vehicle into oncoming traffic, and a Toyota Tundra crashed into the front of the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. There was no reported fire. A police report was filed. The front air... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Dec 13, 2024
*THE COMPONENT IN QUESTION IS THE TRANSMISSION "10R80". *AT RISK IS THAT TRUCK STOPS OR LOSES SPEED IN THE MIDDLE OF DRIVING. IT IS ESPECIALLY DANGERS WHEN GOING THRU A 4 WAY STOP AND TRUCK ALMOST COMES TO A STOP BECAUSE IT HAS NO SPEED AND HAVE ENCOUNTERD CLOSE CALLS TO BE HIT OR T BONED BY OTHER VEHICLES. *THE PROBLEM HAS BEEN ON ONGOING DISPUTE WITH CONSUMERS AND FORD ABOUT THE EXTREME PROBLEMS... Read more
Incident date: Dec 14, 2024
Traveling up a hill of 5-degree incline. 20 MPH speed limit. Came to complete stop, pushed reverse button. Back over prevention camera did not activate. Did not depress gas pedal. Vehicle rolled backward 35 feet before coming to rest partially in traffic and partially in private driveway. Instrument panel indicated vehicle P for park throughout the entire event. After coming to rest: (partial... Read more
Incident date: Dec 14, 2024
Traveling up a hill of 5-degree incline. 20 MPH speed limit. Came to complete stop, pushed reverse button. Back over prevention camera did not activate. Did not depress gas pedal. Vehicle rolled backward 35 feet before coming to rest partially in traffic and partially in private driveway. Instrument panel indicated vehicle P for park throughout the entire event. After coming to rest: (partial... Read more
Incident date: Dec 14, 2024
Traveling up a hill of 5-degree incline. 20 MPH speed limit. Came to complete stop, pushed reverse button. Back over prevention camera did not activate. Did not depress gas pedal. Vehicle rolled backward 35 feet before coming to rest partially in traffic and partially in private driveway. Instrument panel indicated vehicle P for park throughout the entire event. After coming to rest: (partial... Read more
Incident date: Dec 14, 2024
The contact owns a 2015 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V334000 (Air Bags); 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 dealer was contacted and confirmed that the parts were on backorder. The manufacturer was not made aware o... Read more
Incident date: Dec 14, 2024
My vehicle has an incomplete recall, I am not getting what I paid for, still under warranty, not living up to GM Chevrolet warranty. Doesn't feel safe to drive.
Incident date: Dec 14, 2024
My vehicle has an incomplete recall, I am not getting what I paid for, still under warranty, not living up to GM Chevrolet warranty. Doesn't feel safe to drive.
Incident date: Dec 5, 2024
The contact owns a 2014 Chevrolet Spark. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the vehicle lost automotive power. The contact stated that the vehicle was slowly coming to a stop and that the transmission would not shift into the proper gear. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact was able to park the vehicle on the side of the road safely. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechan... Read more
Incident date: Dec 5, 2024
The contact owns a 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel became inoperable. The contact stated that the steering wheel became difficult to turn with the power steering warning light illuminated. The vehicle was restarted; however, the failure recurred. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufactur... Read more
Incident date: Jan 27, 2024
After completing a right turn with a right turn signal, the vehicle will sometimes signal a left turn for 3 blinks. I believe this is because the turn signal stalk 'bounces' down to the left turn signal area when returning back to normal position from a right turn. This is a safety issue because the vehicle is signaling a left turn when no turn is intended. This could cause confusion to oth... Read more
Incident date: Jan 27, 2024
After completing a right turn with a right turn signal, the vehicle will sometimes signal a left turn for 3 blinks. I believe this is because the turn signal stalk 'bounces' down to the left turn signal area when returning back to normal position from a right turn. This is a safety issue because the vehicle is signaling a left turn when no turn is intended. This could cause confusion to oth... Read more
Incident date: Jan 27, 2024
All safety sensors appear to be out of service. Navigation is stuck at one location and is not working. All cameras, including backup, are out of operation (only shows dark screen). Back up sensor does not work. This issue has been ongoing for 1 month on a brand new vehicle. Tesla service center has no ETA on resolution. Service appointment has already been pushed back to next year (Jan 2025).
Incident date: Nov 23, 2024
Bypass Coolant Valve malfunctioned resulting in Engine Maintenance Required triggered. Because I do distance driving at high speeds, any potential engine issue poses a risk to safety. The problem has been confirmed by a dealer/service center. The component in question has not been inspected by the manufacturer. The warning sign that states "Engine Maintenance Required" appeared on the dashboard an... Read more
Incident date: Nov 23, 2024
. In October 2023 (see KIA service ticket) my KIA was brought into Jackson KIA Cocoa, FL, for something not operating correctly. The vehicle periodically would hesitate when pressing the accelerator and other times when you had pressed the accelerator to go faster and removed your foot from the accelerator, the vehicle would not slow down, rather continue to speed up even if you tapped the brake... Read more
Incident date: Nov 23, 2024
Purchased 2 Cooper Endeavor tires July 2022 from a highly popular national retailer, 225/60-R16. The tires were installed professionally by a Ford Dealership. The first of the 2 tires developed a hazardous outer sidewall "egg" within a few weeks of installation (under 1k mi). Having no visible or known damage it was reluctantly replaced by the tire retailer under their provided Road Hazard warrant... Read more
Incident date: Dec 1, 2024
There is a recall on the trim. There are no replacement parts and now there is a tiny leak, The leak is hitting the center console. I have to have a plastic bag over it at all times. it at one point leaked into the hazards lights and I woke up multiple days in a row to find my hazards on and then I had to manually dry it and eventually they'd go back on . Other buttons on the display have stopped ... Read more
Incident date: Dec 1, 2024
My computer has failed. No cameras work including the rear camera. It no longer has cruise control, keeps me in my lane, or has blind spot detection.
Incident date: Dec 1, 2024
My computer has failed. No cameras work including the rear camera. It no longer has cruise control, keeps me in my lane, or has blind spot detection.
Incident date: Dec 17, 2024
My transmission is slipping and causing safety concerns while driving on the highway. It’s a 2017 Chevy Tahoe that has less than 100,000 miles and we have been reading on the internet about many others having the same problem. We just took it to a shop and they informed us that it’s a common issue with this model chevy and it will cost $5,000 to replace the transmission.
Incident date: Dec 17, 2024
My daughter was operating the vehicle when it unexpectedly lost power and came to a stop without warning. The instrument panel began flashing, and she was unable to restart the vehicle to move it out of traffic. A jump-start was required to get the vehicle operational. It has been taken to Koons Ford Annapolis for evaluation. Vehicle mileage is aprox. 27,000