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: Nov 14, 2023
UNKNOWN issue causes safety features Anti-Lock Brake System, Traction Control, and braking feature Hill Start assist to be inoperable. In addition, cruise control system is inoperable.
Incident date: Nov 16, 2023
Another owner of a 2020 Forest River Georgetown GT5 model 34H5 just posted a pic of a crack at the 90-degree bend in the rear propane tank mounting bracket. This is an ASME tank that can contain 19.5 actual gallons of propane. Previous ASME propane tank mounting bracket cracks reported by owners of Georgetowns were all on the front propane tank mounting bracket and were broken welds that allowed o... Read more
Incident date: Oct 24, 2023
X5 was off, parked and the engine compartment burst into flames. Car was totaled There was apparently a recall issues in 2022 in which I was unaware and had no direct contact from the BMW dealer I purchased it from. The recall states that in some vehicles, this part could cause a fire. Well, I had a fire and there was zero indication of anything wrong with the car.
Fire
Incident date: Oct 24, 2023
Out of nowhere my front driver side door started making this awful, loud clanking sound whenever I would open or close it. Took it to the mechanic I usually go to and they said that the "door check broke off the door because the spot weld failed" and that I would have to call a Body Shop. Called the dealership and they said that it is a well known and well documented issue with the year, make and ... Read more
Incident date: Oct 24, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Ford F-150. The contact stated while driving 20-30 MPH, the transmission downshifted from 3rd gear to 1st gear. Additionally, the engine revved up and the RMPS increased significantly. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the failure recurred while driving. The contact stated that after the failure had occurred, he veered to the side of the road. ... Read more
Incident date: Oct 17, 2023
Coolant has leaked into the engine and the exhaust system, presumably through head gasket or the TurboBoost assembly, as described in Ford TSB 22-2133 and TSB 22-2229 (June, 2022). Car, with less than 61,000 miles, is currently being examined by local Ford dealership. Vehicle experienced misfiring before an "engine overheated" warning while driving at freeway speed, which was followed by "coolan... Read more
Incident date: Oct 17, 2023
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the vehicle vibrated and idled very roughly. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated while driving at approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that the rough idling with the check engine warning light had become a recurring failure. The co... Read more
Incident date: Nov 15, 2023
The contact owns a 2016 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 manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms part... Read more
Incident date: Nov 15, 2023
The transmission down shifted to first gear and the rear tires locked up. Skidding on the highway.
Incident date: Nov 16, 2023
For months, the infotainment screen has flashed on and off or delayed in coming on after vehicle has started. The delay would take minutes or hours and eventually became days. Now the screen has been completely blank for about two weeks now. You can hear the radio and adjust it with the steering wheel controls but cannot adjust it with the volume control on the infotainment center. CANNOT... Read more
Incident date: Sep 23, 2023
Power steering turned off while driving, showing error code U3000 after scanning
Incident date: Sep 23, 2023
The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while driving approximately 60 MPH, the braking system failed, and the brake pedal became firm while depressed. The "Engine Power Reduced" message was displayed, and the vehicle went into LIMP Mode, causing the vehicle to decelerate. The vehicle was later towed to the local dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the braking... Read more
Incident date: Nov 16, 2023
The contact owns a 2014 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to coast to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who diagnosed a general failure with the engine. The vehicle was not repaired. After inve... Read more
Incident date: Nov 16, 2023
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V380000 (Engine) 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 when the vehicle was started, there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle with the check... Read more
Incident date: Nov 15, 2023
I was driving down the highway coming up on a traffic jam put on the brakes and several warning. Lights came on the dash and my power brakes failed. I was barely able to stop the car without hitting someone. From that point forward the brakes did not work properly, the regenerative braking system did not function. also, the cruise control stopped functioning. I took the car to the Lexus dealer, ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 12, 2023
This issue is connected with the 6.7L diesel engine. When sitting and idling it starts to idle really fast and the exhaust has an odor and strong fumes. It did not use to do this. I took to my Ford dealership and they say it's normal and there is nothing wrong. I have talked with other people that own the Ford diesel and they have experienced the same issue and been told the same thing by their de... Read more
Incident date: Nov 12, 2023
This issue is connected with the 6.7L diesel engine. When sitting and idling it starts to idle really fast and the exhaust has an odor and strong fumes. It did not use to do this. I took to my Ford dealership and they say it's normal and there is nothing wrong. I have talked with other people that own the Ford diesel and they have experienced the same issue and been told the same thing by their de... Read more
Incident date: Nov 12, 2023
My drivetrain malfunction light comes on and my vehicle stalls while I’m driving it.
Incident date: Jul 29, 2020
Drivers door check arm broken at spot welds rendering it ineffective and making drivers door window inoperable.
Incident date: Nov 15, 2023
There is an issue with the instrument gauge cluster upon ignition start-up. The digital gauge cluster screen suddenly turns off and restarts after a full minute of turning on the car's ignition. After an automatic software restart of the gauge cluster and driving on the highway through Northbound Mopac Loop 1 in Austin, the cluster shows a frozen black background with the blue normal drive mode. T... Read more
Incident date: Nov 15, 2023
This vehicle has had a recall on ABS module and HCU for ABS. The replacement is now repeating the same issues as the original within a few miles. (Service ABS, traction control, and various other lights flash intermittently, causing the cruise control to turn off suddenly, which represents a huge danger.) Not to mention the constant bells and whistles being distracting.
Incident date: Nov 15, 2023
The crankshaft went out and needed to replace complete engine. I know other newer models ram 1500 trucks have the same problem but mine is a 2015, it was not listed on the recall.
Incident date: Sep 29, 2023
Driver side wiper sweep angle does not fully clear the field of view.
Incident date: Sep 29, 2023
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? THE AIRBAG LIGHT KEEPS COMING ON AND OFF, AS WELL AS THE SEATBELT LIGHTS. IT CAN BE INSPECTED IF REQUESTED. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? IF THE AIRBAGS OR SEAT BELTS ARE NOT FUNCTIONING PROPERLY THIS COULD RESULT IN INJURY UP TO AND INCLUDING DEATH. Has the problem been ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 11, 2023
My driver door started making a loud cranking sound out of the blue when opening and closing the door. After several days, it became clear that the door hinge/catch was no longer secured and was loose. This was not the result of a gist of wind forcefully blowing the door open or something like that; it just broke on its own. Now the door swings wildly when opening and the window won’t roll all t... Read more
Incident date: Nov 9, 2023
IN THE PAST WEEK, I TRIED TURNING OFF MY VEHICLE, BUT RECEIVED THE MESSAGE "SHIFT TO PARK". THIS HAS HAPPENED THREE TIMES, THUS FAR (11/6, 11/8, 11/13). THE CAR IS ALREADY IN PARK, BUT WON'T TURN OFF, UNLESS I CONTINUALLY SHIFT, OR RESTART THE CAR SEVERAL TIMES, OTHERWISE, IT CONTINUES TO RUN WITH THE MESSAGE DISPLAYED. AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS, IT FINALLY TURNS OFF. THIS IS ABSOLUTELY HORRIFYIN... Read more
Incident date: Oct 24, 2023
The contact owns a 2014 Ford Focus. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle would shake uncontrollably, and the vehicle was hesitant to accelerate when the accelerator pedal was depressed. The contact also became aware that the clutch was slipping. Additionally, the vehicle occasionally failed to start with a clicking sound coming from the engine compartment. An unknow... Read more
Incident date: Oct 24, 2023
The contact owns a 2014 Ford Focus. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle would shake uncontrollably, and the vehicle was hesitant to accelerate when the accelerator pedal was depressed. The contact also became aware that the clutch was slipping. Additionally, the vehicle occasionally failed to start with a clicking sound coming from the engine compartment. An unknow... Read more
Incident date: Nov 13, 2023
When driving down the highway car will beep a message on dashboad to pull the car over and turn engine off. the HEV light will be flashing. you can turn engine off and re start in a minute or so. the check engine light stays on and tells me to check hybrid system this willl ocur at random ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 13, 2023
When driving down the highway car will beep a message on dashboad to pull the car over and turn engine off. the HEV light will be flashing. you can turn engine off and re start in a minute or so. the check engine light stays on and tells me to check hybrid system this willl ocur at random ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 11, 2023
Death wobble at speeds over 60mph when hitting a bump or pothole
Incident date: Oct 3, 2023
transmission failure suddenly while driving with no check engine or warning lights.
Incident date: Oct 24, 2023
When I turn off the LTA switch, it stays on..in other words the steering is affected, and warning beeps sound when I cross into another lane. This is both irritating and dangerous. I brought it in to Orland Toyota for service. The service advisor related that the Technician who worked on it said the computer in the car shows that it’s working properly, and they are going with that. When I prote... Read more
Incident date: Oct 24, 2023
When I turn off the LTA switch, it stays on..in other words the steering is affected, and warning beeps sound when I cross into another lane. This is both irritating and dangerous. I brought it in to Orland Toyota for service. The service advisor related that the Technician who worked on it said the computer in the car shows that it’s working properly, and they are going with that. When I prote... Read more
Incident date: Nov 5, 2023
On highway pressure warning come on and within seconds tire ran flat. AAA service said sidewall was split due to dry rot. Vehicle has 40k miles. Tires are OEM.
Incident date: Nov 5, 2023
The contact owns a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at 35 MPH, the vehicle overheated. The contact stated that the battery consistently failed, and the vehicle had stopped accelerating as needed. The vehicle became inoperable intermittently. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle had not been diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made a... Read more
Incident date: Nov 12, 2023
The Check Arm Attachment on the driver side door for my 2020 broke off because of poor welding, I have read it is a common issue with the 2020 ford escape
Incident date: Nov 12, 2023
The Check Arm Attachment on the driver side door for my 2020 broke off because of poor welding, I have read it is a common issue with the 2020 ford escape
Incident date: Nov 9, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while her daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle shook and then lost motive power. The contact stated that failure had occurred four times. The contact stated that the failure had previously occurred while her daughter was driving, stopped at a stop light, and in the middle of the street. The vehicle was taken to a... Read more
Incident date: Nov 9, 2023
Ac/heater smells like mold/musty/mildew inside the cabin. Took for the extended warranty but will not honor unless you have proof of cabin filters purchased every year. This is their way of finding a loop of not fixing the issue.
Incident date: Oct 20, 2023
Turned my wheel to pull out of a parking spot. I heard a grinding noise as I moved forward and then lost the ability to steer my car. I was able to get my car off the street and upon inspection found my left front tie rod had snapped in half.
Incident date: Oct 20, 2023
I was driving down the highway at 65 when all of a sudden I lost my steering. No warning or anything.
Incident date: Nov 13, 2023
Passenger side front headrest airbag deployed without incident. There were no warning lights, messages or symptoms prior to deployment. The vehicle was inspected and certified upon purchase. This could have caused injury to myself or my children. My biggest concern is the same incident happening without warning to the driver’s side while I’m driving and causing an accident which results in inj... Read more
Incident date: Nov 12, 2023
I am writing to you as I have many concerns about my Ford EcoSport. As I commute to my job or drive to pick up errands, my car suddenly stops. I would make a complete stop and I forget to press the Start/Stop button to disable it from shutting off the engine. This has happened several times and I have taken in my car before and all of the Ford dealerships and service workers have no idea of what t... Read more
Incident date: Nov 12, 2023
This problem has happened for many many years. Made appointments @ Fuccillo Chevy dealer, by then it’s gone off & they don’t know! Well, just occurred again when getting new tires @Dunn pulling in. 2011 impala Stabilitrak, engine power loss, then check engine light! Thank goodness the mechanic printed me the codes & what they mean!! SO- P2138 Throttle/pedal pod sensor voltage correlation DTC ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 12, 2023
This problem has happened for many many years. Made appointments @ Fuccillo Chevy dealer, by then it’s gone off & they don’t know! Well, just occurred again when getting new tires @Dunn pulling in. 2011 impala Stabilitrak, engine power loss, then check engine light! Thank goodness the mechanic printed me the codes & what they mean!! SO- P2138 Throttle/pedal pod sensor voltage correlation DTC ... Read more
Incident date: Oct 21, 2023
When reversing the vehicle the brake pedal jumps with your feet on the brake pedal and a nose rattles,when driving and you have a sudden stop motion the vehicle brakes pedal with your feet on it it’s very hard to push the brake Pedal . Reversing the vehicle very strong nose and the vehicle doesn’t stop right away
Incident date: Oct 21, 2023
When reversing the vehicle the brake pedal jumps with your feet on the brake pedal and a nose rattles,when driving and you have a sudden stop motion the vehicle brakes pedal with your feet on it it’s very hard to push the brake Pedal . Reversing the vehicle very strong nose and the vehicle doesn’t stop right away
Incident date: Nov 10, 2023
My ball joint failed on my brand new 4 month old vehicle at mile 2077. You absolutely have the ability to inspect it if you would like. This caused a MAJOR safety issue to both me and people around me as I lost complete control of my vehicle. Luckily, no one was injured. I believe this is an independent claim thus far on a CX-50. Mazda claims they had it inspected but I never saw anything in writi... Read more
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