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 1, 2023
Earlier this morning, while driving in stop-and-go traffic, I attempted to accelerate once traffic ahead of me had cleared. There was no car, obstruction, etc., in front of my car for at least one car length, if not more. As I accelerated, the CMBS system suddenly kicked in, flashing BRAKE on my dash and applying the brake. My car came to a complete stop. Luckily, the person behind me had started ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 1, 2023
The contact owns a 2018 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while in seventh gear, the vehicle downshifted to first gear. While attempting to accelerate from a stop, the vehicle failed to move forward. The transmission also shifted hard from first gear to third gear. While accelerating, the vehicle unintendedly shifted into neutral. The power train malfunction and reduce power messages were displa... Read more
Incident date: Oct 31, 2023
The odometer is not working properly, screen continues to flicker and has been progressively getting worse. It seems like is this a common issues with Honda HRVs. It puts me at risk for running out of gas at any point and living in the country doesn't make me feel safe. I've spoken with several HRV owners and each of them have this issue at different millage. The flashing can become very distracti... Read more
Incident date: Oct 29, 2023
Tail lights (rear running lights) don’t work, when break light and turn lights work
Incident date: Nov 1, 2023
Just bought this vehicle and it is undrivable at night due to the dim low beam headlights. This seams to be a problem with these vehicles from 2010 to 2016. I called GM customer service and was given a number for GM analytics (1-888-305-1605), the recording states that the time to be reimbursed has passed and that they are no longer taking any further claim submissions. GM has settled class acti... Read more
Incident date: Nov 1, 2023
I have had transmission problems with this van since I bought it. Had it in the shop several times. It jumps or pops and throws vehicle forward. I also have had to replace the large battery and the accessory battery multiple times. This has left me stranded many times bc it will shut off while driving. Last time was today 11/01/2023. Large battery and alternator was good. Accessory battery dead co... Read more
Incident date: Oct 30, 2023
Engine codes P0016 and P0017 reads cam shaft and crank shaft correlation it is everywhere on the internet and on the Mercedes Benz Forum.This is a know problem that Mercedes has ignored. its on all 2004 thru 2008 vehicles with the 3.5 engine. Calls for a balancer shaft replacement. This should definitely be a recall issue.The industry knows that is was poorly manufactured part. Your help with rec... Read more
Incident date: Oct 30, 2023
Intermittent ABS and traction control lights. Service lights come on and go off when braking or driving over bumps. Code C0020 - ABS Pump Motor Control General Electric Failure. Issue is so random I haven’t taken the truck to a service center.
Incident date: Oct 31, 2023
The contact owns a 2019 Lincoln MKC. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V378000 (Engine) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made awar... Read more
Incident date: Oct 31, 2023
I own a 2015 Nissan Pathfinder with a CVT transmission that has gone out. I bought the vehicle used in October 2022. Obviously this class action lawsuit and claim deadline had already passed - when I bought the car and until my transmission failed, I had no idea about the problems or the lawsuit. Therefore I have never opted out or into the lawsuit because I did not even own the car yet. The vehi... Read more
Incident date: Oct 31, 2023
The contact owns a 2021 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V675000 (Power Train) 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 stated while driving approximately 60 MPH, the vehicle ... Read more
Incident date: Nov 1, 2022
Sunroof stopped working, no longer sits flush with vehicle, will not open. I’ve seen recalls for other models/years regarding unsafe sunroof, potential of detaching sunroof. I believe my vehicle should be included in this recall as well.
Incident date: Nov 1, 2022
The rear window, window seal, or related components have failed and allow water to intrude into the cabin of my vehicle near the back. This water gets the headliner wet and drips down the interior of the rear window, down the rear of the passenger compartment. This water intrusion occurs with very, very light moisture on the vehicle, such as early mornings with morning dew, light rain, or watchi... Read more
Incident date: Aug 7, 2023
Vehicle Dash Check Engine Light came on 08/31/2023 Code P200A was found. Several weeks went by and vehicle started to hesitate pretty bad Vehicle was towed to Kia dealership on 10/04/2023 : Was told engine failure which needed replacement along with intake and several other required parts. Covered under Powertrain Warranty, vehicle was completed and ready for pick up on 10/17/2023 On 10/24/2023... Read more
Incident date: Jul 16, 2023
The contact owns a 2012 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine, traction control, and 4WD drive warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure had been reoccurring for approximately two months. The dealer was contacted and made aware of the failure and a service appointment was scheduled. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repair... Read more
Incident date: Jul 16, 2023
The contact owns a 2012 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine, traction control, and 4WD drive warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure had been reoccurring for approximately two months. The dealer was contacted and made aware of the failure and a service appointment was scheduled. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repair... Read more
Incident date: Jul 16, 2023
The contact owns a 2012 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine, traction control, and 4WD drive warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure had been reoccurring for approximately two months. The dealer was contacted and made aware of the failure and a service appointment was scheduled. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repair... Read more
Incident date: Oct 28, 2023
The Electronic A/C system for no reason will when I have the blower selected to defrost or head and feet it changes the blower things that control air flow to someplace in between. Nothing blows out if vents but fan is running. Kind of dangerous when you can’t defrost windows. I brought it yo dealer twice and of course it decided to start working again. I noticed that when it does that if i shu... Read more
Incident date: Jan 15, 2023
The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at 75 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was able to restart. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V524000 (Electri... Read more
Incident date: Jan 15, 2023
While parked and unoccupied, the rear windscreen unexpectedly exploded. This incident was not caused by any external force or impact, and it occurred without any warning signs or previous issues with the vehicle. I had been out earlier that morning - light rain with back defogger engaged.
Incident date: Oct 27, 2023
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the front windshield molding became fractured and started striking the front passenger’s side door glass. The contact was able to safely drive the vehicle to the shoulder of the road. The vehicle was taken to the dealer. The contact was informed that there was no recall. The dealer advised the contact to report the f... Read more
Incident date: Oct 27, 2023
Had an issue where the main front digital cluster went black upon a start-up and drive. No speedometer, engine status, gear status or anything. Shutting the car on and off did not correct the problem. Contacted dealer and advised to bring in. I chose to disconnect the battery rebooting the vehicles BOM. Issue resolved after a vehicle reboot. This is a serious software issue.
Incident date: Oct 27, 2023
The rear brakes cable holder is broken. This is a very common issue with this vehicle and appears to be a safety issue as the cables will hang and rub on the driveshaft. My service advisor, from BMW of Pembroke Pines, FL, Ramon Trull, also advised/ confirms the same. It's an inexpensive part, however, the cost to replace is exorbitant. If you search the web, you'll find many examples. I feel thi... Read more
Incident date: Oct 27, 2023
The contact owns a 2015 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the tire pressure monitor warning light and the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that the thermostat, and head gasket needed to be replaced. Additionally, there were other mechanical issues with t... Read more
Incident date: Oct 30, 2022
I went to start my car up 10 days ago and it began to alarm with a message to check the brake system. My car was stuck and wouldn't drive. This also happened in July 2022 while I was on the highway. I could no longer accelerate and the gas pedal no longer gave power. I had to put on my hazard lights and coast to the far right lane. I took it to the Hyundai dealership near by and they said it ... Read more
Incident date: Oct 21, 2023
Failed cylinder head (misfire p0304). Need to have engine rebuilt or replaced. Also had oil cooler failure, losing coolant and oil. 71k miles, just over the 60k power train warranty. Need dealer to help fix but they are booked for next 3 months. Car initially cut out on the road in traffic after auto start stop, was scary and safety risk with family including kids onboard. Confirmed with in... Read more
Incident date: Oct 28, 2023
Car is not driving well, roaring sound and jerky acceleration. Transmission pump is faulty on a new car with less than 3000 miles.
Incident date: Oct 28, 2023
Car is not driving well, roaring sound and jerky acceleration. Transmission pump is faulty on a new car with less than 3000 miles.
Incident date: Oct 28, 2023
Rear differential failure. This car is my daily driver, and is in circumstances misused. Driving home from work with no warning the differential housing cracked and failed. A failure like this could potentially put myself, other occupants and other drivers on the road a risk by unexpectedly failing with zero warning. There was no sound, nor warning light, the only reason I noticed was when exiting... Read more
Incident date: Oct 28, 2023
I purchased a Ford certified 2019 Ford Explorer recently. It is my 20th Ford. I could barely hear the horn and thought there was a problem with one of the horns. I researched it and found that the 2019 model year only came with one horn. The horn is at the front of the hood and when I checked there was a bracket for 2 horns but there was only one. You almost can not hear it when inside of the... Read more
Incident date: Oct 28, 2023
My panoramic sunroof has an extreme amount wind coming through it while driving 40 miles per hour . I can also hear my panoramic sunroof sliding back and forth . I’m terrified that that it will fly off while driving and cause a road hazard .
Incident date: Oct 28, 2023
My daughter was on the way to work, in the middle of traffic going around another vehicle at the time and without any warning, the power steering just went out. It was as though the steering wheel locked up or there was no power steering capabilities whatsoever and she barely made it off of the roadway. This could have caused an accident and It scared her so bad that she was crying when she calle... Read more
Incident date: Oct 29, 2023
The headrests deployed randomly even though there was no accident to cause it. This puts others at risk as it can potentially lead to minor head injuries if the driver and passenger are driving. Problem was never accessed by dealer or insurance, but other owners of Chrysler made products have reported this issue. There has been no warnings anywhere, just a mechanical issue in the headrest.
Incident date: Oct 28, 2023
I had no warning lights or messages and then the engine threw a rod and my car just died on the side of the road. It had apparently been burning oil. I get it back after 2 months and it needs a battery. Now the check engine light is on and it has affected the catalytic converter.
Incident date: Oct 28, 2023
Fuel gauge screen goes out completely and randomly shows up glitches. Serious safety concern because you're unable to determine the fuel you have left in your tank. Also, unable to determine your vehicle mileage and trip mileage. Unable to determine the engine oil life and the maintenance minder.
Incident date: Sep 1, 2023
My car caught on fire while driving.
Fire
2 injured
Incident date: Sep 1, 2023
Car purchased in 11/2022 with roughly 60,000 miles. I have owned the car for about 11 months. When we took the car for its first oil change there was no oil registering on the dipstick. The engine began knocking before the second oil change was due and after checking the oil I needed to aff 4.5 quarts of oil. I took the car to my mechanic was informed that there was no oil leak and that KIA en... Read more
Incident date: Jul 5, 2023
Car slams on brakes by itself. Once with large metal plate used for construction. Going about 40-45mph. Another time when someone turned completely and it slammed on the brakes nowhere near a vehicle.
Incident date: Oct 25, 2023
I was driving the vehicle on a busy road and a message came up on the display above the steering column saying Engine Power Reduced. I went to brake and was unable to push the pedal in as it was extremely stiff. There were vehicles around me and I tried to use both feet and stand on the brakes and was able to get a little bit of movement but the car still didn't slow down. I had my significant oth... Read more
Incident date: Oct 26, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Ford F-150. The contact stated that when the vehicle was started, the instrument panel failed to illuminate. The contact believed that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V053000 (Power Train, Electrical System) however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was ... Read more
Incident date: Jun 7, 2022
VSA ABS Module on 2016 Accord, throws all sorts of codes and millions of people are having the same ISSUE around the same time & milage, ranges from 2013-2017 Honda Accord. Can cause loss of traction, brake assisast. I've tried to have this repaird and there is also none anywhere to buy and honda doesnt want to issue a recall. THIS should be investiagted and honda be held accounatable.
Incident date: Jun 7, 2022
The contact owns a 2016 Kia Optima. The contact stated that after driving approximately 60 MPH for 20-30 minutes, the vehicle would start shaking abnormally. While driving approximately 40 MPH or less, the check engine warning light would become illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer who noticed that there was no oil in the engine which caused engine failure. The contact stated th... Read more
Incident date: Jun 7, 2022
The vehicle is supposed to automatically slow down (regen) when you let off the accelerator. Recently the car continues to coast or stay the same speed. The battery is not close to being full (will not regen). I will apply the brake and let go and the car will continue to move forward. It is dangerous.
Incident date: Oct 27, 2023
Roughly 60 days after we purchased our Atlas the brakes started squealing, grinding, and when its wet or raining, it is nearly impossible to stop the vehicle without slamming the brakes so hard that the anti-lock braking system engages. This is a safety hazard/concern. We contacted the dealership where we purchased the vehicle (out of state) and they said this was standard and not to worry. Thi... Read more
Incident date: Mar 1, 2022
The car was parked in the driveway with the rear defroster on. The rear window shattered. There were no prior impacts or collisions, and the ambient temperature was about 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Despite the dealer having a previous case of this happening, they are unwilling to cover it via warranty. Honda's support was also unwilling to cover the incident under warranty.
Incident date: Mar 1, 2022
The contact owns a 2017 Ram 2500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the ABS warning light and the traction control warning light intermittently illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the hydraulic control unit had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to an ... Read more
Incident date: Oct 27, 2023
The driver side air bag did not deploy, however, the passenger side air bag ceployed when we hit a deer at 70 mph! Both air bags should have deployed since we hit the deer in the center of the car! My wife an I are very lucky to be alive! The insurance company inspected the car and considered it to be totaled. The sheriffs department also made an accident report! No warning lights were on at all, ... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Oct 4, 2023
Steering wheel of the car is faulty. Steering wheel sticks to the center, when it is left in the center position for some 5-10 seconds driving on a lane. That stickiness makes it jerky and requires an extra effort to turn it left or right which makes it over steer and poses the risk of oversteering and running into the car in the next lane. Had multiple visits to the dealership, they acknowledge t... Read more
Incident date: Oct 19, 2023
My vehicle has a delay in taking off from a complete stop. The car also looses a little power while driving intermittently. There was times that the car wouldn't even go at all I had to turn off the car and restarted to be able to go. That has been happening more and more the check engine light has been on the whole time. Also the rear shock or strut went out but the part that is apart of the susp... Read more
Incident date: Oct 26, 2023
Brakes were firmly applied to avoid a collision, the 3rd row seatbelt did not engage and the passenger was thrust forward and hit their head on the 2nd row seat. Took the vehicle to Audi for inspection and they found the locking mechanism on the belt was faulty and replaced it.