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: Jun 11, 2024
Driving in a 40mph zone and car suddenly lost all power followed by a message stop safetly now and the 12v battery icon. While coasting car lost power steering and upon stopping went into park and would not go into neutral for 30+ minutes
Incident date: Jun 11, 2024
Driving in a 40mph zone and car suddenly lost all power followed by a message stop safetly now and the 12v battery icon. While coasting car lost power steering and upon stopping went into park and would not go into neutral for 30+ minutes
Incident date: Jun 11, 2024
Vehicle dashboard indicated that Airbag intermediately had issues and service was needed. Vehicle taken to dealership and had to have failing airbag replaced.
Incident date: Aug 14, 2024
Several times per week, when I go to accelerate after being at a complete stop, my vehicle hesitates and does not pick up power. It very slowly accelerates and feels as if it’s going to stall, then suddenly revs up and accelerates, but revs up higher than it should before finally getting to the appropriate speed/rpm. This is very unsafe as I cannot pull out into traffic, even if I should have ... Read more
Incident date: Aug 10, 2024
Water leaking through front pillars
Incident date: Aug 10, 2024
The car started lurching and then the power went off. When turned back on and put in gear, the gas pedal did nothing. Then a few minutes later, it would kick back on. I finally got a letter from BMW about a recall. The symptoms matched. However, for the last 10 months, they offered no help. I understand there was no remedy until recently. However, we were out of a car since November 2023 and put ... Read more
Incident date: Aug 10, 2024
The car started lurching and then the power went off. When turned back on and put in gear, the gas pedal did nothing. Then a few minutes later, it would kick back on. I finally got a letter from BMW about a recall. The symptoms matched. However, for the last 10 months, they offered no help. I understand there was no remedy until recently. However, we were out of a car since November 2023 and put ... Read more
Incident date: Aug 12, 2024
The vehicle has 83,000 miles. It burns through 10 quarts of oil per 5,000 miles. No oil or check engine light comes on. Twice It has been dry when having the oil changed. Additionally, the vehicle suddenly started to jerk and misfire, the check engine light came on. I was within a block of my home and was able to return home. This would have been extremely dangerous in traffic. I have changed the ... Read more
Incident date: Aug 13, 2024
The contact owns a 2024 Chevrolet Trax. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the daytime running lights was continuously blinking off and on, creating a visibility hazard for both the driver and oncoming motorist. Additionally, the OnStar feature intermittently malfunctioned, and the driver was unable to communicate. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer... Read more
Incident date: Aug 13, 2024
See attached document for complaint
TESLA
MODEL 3
(2017) - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY:MANAGEMENT SYSTEM/ENERGY CONTROL MODULE (BMS/BECM)
Aug 13, 2024
Incident date: Aug 13, 2024
See attached document for complaint
Incident date: Aug 5, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fusion. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the shifted into LIMP Mode, with the engine coolant temperature warning light illuminated. The vehicle was able to be restarted; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehic... Read more
Incident date: Aug 3, 2024
Frame is rusted beyond repair both in the front and rear of the truck. fuel tank strap is rusted threw and fuel tank is hanging by one strap and not far from the ground.
Incident date: Aug 3, 2024
The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) malfunctioned causing the brakes to give out while I was driving the vehicle. Luckily I was on a residential street and I was able to safely pull over, but it could have caused a major accident had it not happened in that location. After taking it to two auto-shops, both concluded that it was a problem with the ABS system. There is an open recall for the 2010 Ford... Read more
Incident date: Jul 2, 2024
For about a month, I've noticed sporadic changes in steering feel. It can happen while making minute changes going straight (when you shouldn't really feel the steering at all) or on rounded turns. The steering is heavy, like the feel when lane keep assist activates, but it's happening when lane keep isn't on, so the heaviness is more steering force than usual for the conditions. It happens for an... Read more
Incident date: Jul 2, 2024
Engine code p1009 VTC valve replacement no know place will replace due to zero tolerant engine and timing not in tune due too much damage by the pistons and valves
Incident date: Jul 2, 2024
The vehicle was purchased new. From day one, there were issues. When it was delivered from the factory, it was discovered to be partly unpainted. This raised quality concerns. So far, the most serious has been that the motor blower failed at approximately 29,700 miles. This resulted in the vehicle filling with noxious fumes. It then had to be abandoned on the side of the highway. This led to a fir... Read more
1 injured
Incident date: Aug 9, 2024
While driving our van last Saturday afternoon, an error notification made a ding sound and the error message "STOP SAFELY. VEHICLE WILL SHUT OFF SOON" appeared on our dashboard. Thankfully we were driving through a small town at the time and were able to safely pull into a parking lot, turn the vehicle off and wait a few minutes, and start it up to find the error message gone, and we could resume ... Read more
Incident date: Aug 9, 2024
Two incidents where the Engine suddenly shut off. Incident 1 (August 4th): We had come to a complete stop at a traffic light. After a few seconds the engine shut off (we had Auto Start/Stop disabled), the dash and radio briefly stopped and then the dashboard's indicator lights lid up as they would before a car is started. We put the gear shift into Park and restarted the car. It started right away... Read more
Incident date: Aug 3, 2024
The contact owns a 2017 Nissan Rogue. The contact stated that there was mold on the front passenger's side floor and underneath the front passenger's side seat. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was determined that water had leaked into the vehicle due to a clogged sunroof drain. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The contact stated that the front dri... Read more
Incident date: Aug 3, 2024
The contact owns a 2018 Tesla Model 3. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the seat belt warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the seat belt was inoperable, and the front seat restraint system failure message was displayed. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided... Read more
Incident date: Aug 3, 2024
At higher speeds, 60+ MPH, the drivers side mirror will vibrate causing visibility issues, as the image is not stable. This is cause for concern when traveling at high speeds and using the mirror to check surroundings for lane changes.
Incident date: Aug 3, 2024
Failure with injectors lead to broken crankshaft. Pics attached of broken crankshaft. I was driving at 70 mph and extreme vibration began to which i had to immediately pulled off the road. Luckily no other vehicles were around me. This is a known defect from Nissan that they refuse to acknowledge. No warning lights or engine malfunctions preceded this, very dangerous.
Incident date: Jul 26, 2024
Headlights flicker every five seconds at night. Could be a hazard to oncoming traffic.
Incident date: Jul 26, 2024
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Edge. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was misfire coming from the engine with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that excessive amounts of white smoke was coming from the exhaust pipes. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of coolant. The vehicle was not diagnose... Read more
Incident date: Jul 26, 2024
See attached document for complaint
Incident date: Jul 9, 2024
The steering wheel faulty. it is available for inspection This is a recall but my vehicles miles are 170000. It puts safety at risk because the steering wheel will stay still and will not move. No it hasn’t been confirmed but i contacted by phone. No it hasn’t been inspected by others but just took my car in for a service it first appeared 1 month ago saying steering wheel faulty
Incident date: Aug 6, 2024
While driving on a major highway, several warning lights, including the brake warning, appeared on the dashboard. Simultaneously, the vehicle lost power steering, making it extremely difficult to steer and creating a hazardous situation for the driver and others on the road. The driver managed to pull over and turn off the vehicle. Upon restarting, the warning lights were gone, and the steering re... Read more
Incident date: Aug 6, 2024
While driving on a major highway, several warning lights, including the brake warning, appeared on the dashboard. Simultaneously, the vehicle lost power steering, making it extremely difficult to steer and creating a hazardous situation for the driver and others on the road. The driver managed to pull over and turn off the vehicle. Upon restarting, the warning lights were gone, and the steering re... Read more
Incident date: Aug 6, 2024
While driving on a major highway, several warning lights, including the brake warning, appeared on the dashboard. Simultaneously, the vehicle lost power steering, making it extremely difficult to steer and creating a hazardous situation for the driver and others on the road. The driver managed to pull over and turn off the vehicle. Upon restarting, the warning lights were gone, and the steering re... Read more
Incident date: Aug 6, 2024
When I purchased my 2014 Volvo XC 60 I was told that it was in good overall condition and believe that after driving it for the vehicle in full and brought it back because it needed a current inspection. Within four days of taking it home after the inspection, the PCV valve went bad and I had a minor leak in the middle center top of the windshield that dripped in and left watermarks on my headline... Read more
Incident date: Aug 6, 2024
When I purchased my 2014 Volvo XC 60 I was told that it was in good overall condition and believe that after driving it for the vehicle in full and brought it back because it needed a current inspection. Within four days of taking it home after the inspection, the PCV valve went bad and I had a minor leak in the middle center top of the windshield that dripped in and left watermarks on my headline... Read more
Incident date: Aug 6, 2024
The CV axle on my 2022 Ford Maverick keeps failing. Has been repaired/replaced 3 times same Ford dealership completing repairs. It starts with shuddering and shaking when accelerating then a clicking noise and unable to keep vehicle straight. Lucky enough no accidents where caused, however the second time this happened I was on interstate going at least 75mph the clicking started then could not co... Read more
Incident date: Jul 19, 2024
Hyundai Service for Malfunction 8-10-24 Took New 2024 Palisade to Hallmark Hyundai Service Dept. for issue with handling On 4 different occasions while driving out of a parking garage at Centennial Medical Center in Nashville TN, going approximately 5 MPH or so, the front wheels started moving back and forth very violently. Steering wheel shaking with violent wheel movement. I held the steerin... Read more
Incident date: Mar 10, 2023
I was leaving my neighborhood approaching a stop sign going 15-20 mph and started to apply the brakes. It was a little bumpy and maybe very light gravel. (Clear weather, dry road) The car suddenly and unusually applied the brakes repeatedly (I felt it through the pedal). It actually took the car longer to stop than normally it would have (I drive this route every day). It defintely was unusual... Read more
Incident date: Jul 18, 2024
Safety features on my car are currently unavailable. I called the dealership and was told it was due to a defected sensor in the back windshield. And I would have to pay to replace the entire windshield. Even tho the sensor is defective.
Incident date: Jul 18, 2024
Safety features on my car are currently unavailable. I called the dealership and was told it was due to a defected sensor in the back windshield. And I would have to pay to replace the entire windshield. Even tho the sensor is defective.
Incident date: Jul 18, 2024
I own a 2016 Sorento SXL AWD and this issue just started. I work evening shift and get off at 11pm. I always have the lights set to "auto", while driving home on a rural road at night and the headlights switch off on their own. I have to manually switch the lights off and back to auto for them to come back on. Potentially dangerous situation and Kia should issue a recall. Can find any recall but ... Read more
Incident date: Jul 18, 2024
The rear back up camera works intermittently and the car will not start intermittently cannot find the issue it has left stuck at places because it would not start. Changed the battery and all electrical checked out ok.
Incident date: Jul 18, 2024
Toyota Rav4 2019 XLE - Engine Coolant Pump Performance/Stuck Off Error code P26CB milage 56,920 Toyota says this is NOT covered by the 5 year power train warranty. For years Toyota has manufactured this water pump that freezes up due to manufacturing defect that allows the magnetic base housing to rupture. Dealers want to replace entire pump (or at least charge for it) verses replacing the... Read more
Incident date: Jul 18, 2024
Toyota Rav4 2019 XLE - Engine Coolant Pump Performance/Stuck Off Error code P26CB milage 56,920 Toyota says this is NOT covered by the 5 year power train warranty. For years Toyota has manufactured this water pump that freezes up due to manufacturing defect that allows the magnetic base housing to rupture. Dealers want to replace entire pump (or at least charge for it) verses replacing the... Read more
Incident date: Aug 1, 2024
The center overhead console fell down (controls dome lights, sunroof, & other convenience features). Thankfully, no one was driving but it could have caused a serious issue if we had been. Many other VW Tiguan owners have experienced this issue, sometimes multiple times.
Incident date: Aug 10, 2024
The touchscreen has started to exhibit similar issues as seen in previous recalls for the Mazdas. Commonly known as "ghost touch," the screen receives erroneous inputs, causing settings to change or unwanted functionality to start/stop. Depending on the active screen, the system will exhibit different behavior. In my case, the discoloration is directly at the 6 o'clock position. Whatever applicat... Read more
Incident date: Aug 10, 2024
Years back there was a recall in regard to the frame. I brought the truck into Colonial Toyota in Milford CT for the recall. I was advised that the frame was fine and did not need to be replaced. Recently when i brought the truck in for an oil change the owner advised me that the gas straps attached to the frame had rusted out. He demanded that I remove the vehicle from his facility ASAP du... Read more
Incident date: Jul 31, 2024
I was driving on the highway at 70 mph and for no reason the emergency brake activated and stopped the truck. I am very scared because it has happened so many times. I always drive with my child on board, I am afraid that this will end in a rollover or death. At the time of the incident the truck is already done all recalls and updates softwares
Incident date: Jul 31, 2024
I was driving on the highway at 70 mph and for no reason the emergency brake activated and stopped the truck. I am very scared because it has happened so many times. I always drive with my child on board, I am afraid that this will end in a rollover or death. At the time of the incident the truck is already done all recalls and updates softwares
Incident date: Jul 31, 2024
Incident happened August 9, 2020. Brakes suddenly stiffened and unable to stop vehicle. There were no warning signs or indicators. Thank goodness I was going at a lower speed and was able to coast into an area to stop. Ended up being the vacuum pump. This needs to be recalled ASAP. This could have been a fatal accident. I have kept the old vacuum pump as well as the pieces that were thrown from it... Read more
Incident date: May 15, 2024
I bought this car brand new and I’m the only driver. I have my oil changed every 3,000 to 4,000 miles. Boiling Springs Tire is the place I get it changed but I have had it changed a few times at Hyundai in Spartanburg. About a year or so ago my oil light came on and I was shocked because it hadn’t been long since I had oil changed. I checked it and it was almost out. I put oil in it and t... Read more
Incident date: May 15, 2024
On July 19, 2024, my 2025 Kia Carnival SXP experienced a significant battery drainage issue, rendering the vehicle inoperable. The cause is currently unknown, but it seems to involve a parasitic electrical draw that drained the battery while the car was parked and turned off. This issue occurred despite no prior warning or indication of battery problems. Compounding the situation, the door locks,... Read more
Incident date: Aug 1, 2024
We were driving on a 2 lane highway, when we came to an intersection with a center turn lane the car panicked and swerved left and then braked and disengaged the autosteer/cruise control. This was not with autopilot, just autosteer.