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 22,185 complaints for TESLA
Incident date: Jun 11, 2025
The contact owns a 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed and attempting to stop the vehicle, the brake pedal was depressed and went all the way to the floorboard however, the vehicle failed to immediately stop. The contact stated that after pumping the brake pedal repeatedly the vehicle came to a stop. The ABS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle w... Read more
Incident date: Jun 11, 2025
The contact owns a 2012 Aston Martin Rapide. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was driven to the residence. The contact used a handheld diagnostic machine to retrieve a DTC for a minor fuel vapor leak. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed as an overheated terminal at the connector at the top of th... Read more
Incident date: Jul 13, 2025
Software update was pushed onto my car, after the update the car autopilot ECU no longer works. When the ECU finally failed these features were stuck or are completely broken/not working: - Auto dim rear view mirrors (these were stuck in dim mode, preventing me from seeing in rain or darkened environments such as at night or under shade, 0% visibility under these conditions when changing lanes or... Read more
Incident date: Jul 13, 2025
The transmission. It is disengaging while driving down the road. It literally has basically stalled out in the middle of intersections, the highway, etc. There is a recall for this exact problem just not with my vin for some reason. I tried to get a dealership to look at it and see if they can fix it they say they will not. I am not safe nor are others with this malfunction.
Incident date: Jul 13, 2025
The transmission. It is disengaging while driving down the road. It literally has basically stalled out in the middle of intersections, the highway, etc. There is a recall for this exact problem just not with my vin for some reason. I tried to get a dealership to look at it and see if they can fix it they say they will not. I am not safe nor are others with this malfunction.
Incident date: Jul 1, 2025
It is impossible to disable automatic emergency, breaking system permanently. The vehicle brakes strongly and abruptly causing the cars behind to slam on their brakes and potentially cause accidents. Every time I disable it, it comes back on next time we get into the car. There has been several instances where the vehicle hit the brakes really hard, even if there was nothing in front of it.. I... Read more
Incident date: Jul 1, 2025
While driving, my entire dashboard lit up with every warning sound and symbol for the car. It would cycle through collision, airbags, braking, all of it. Luckily I was able to drive to a safe place. I let the car sit overnight and the alarms stopped. Took it to service and they could not recreate it and no codes showed up. Second time it happened, the warning sounds and lights didn’t stop. The c... Read more
Incident date: Jul 1, 2025
While driving, my entire dashboard lit up with every warning sound and symbol for the car. It would cycle through collision, airbags, braking, all of it. Luckily I was able to drive to a safe place. I let the car sit overnight and the alarms stopped. Took it to service and they could not recreate it and no codes showed up. Second time it happened, the warning sounds and lights didn’t stop. The c... Read more
Incident date: Jul 15, 2025
My truck dies for no reason when in park, or drive going very slowly. My vehicle is available for inspection if desired. This is very dangerous to have a running vehicle die when driving, or stopped at a red light. This has happened multiple times. I usually know when it's about to happen because my vehicle shakes, sometimes very hard, right before it happens. The dealership has stated that i... Read more
Incident date: Jul 14, 2025
Subject: Urgent Safety Concern – Request for Recall Coverage Assistance To Whom It May Concern, I am writing with a heartfelt and urgent request regarding a serious malfunction in my vehicle's steering column, which has made it extremely difficult to turn. This presents a clear and dangerous safety hazard, particularly on expressways and in everyday driving when the ability to maneuver quickly i... Read more
Incident date: Jul 12, 2025
Incident Date: July 12, 2025 Approximate Time: 1:30 PM Vehicle: 2026 Tesla Model Y Location: I‑75 South express lane toward I‑285 East, Marietta, GA Event Summary: While Autopilot was engaged, the vehicle was entering the exit ramp to I‑285 East when it abruptly veered left into the I‑285 West entrance ramp, against traffic, crashing through two “no entry” security gates. I was ab... Read more
Crash
2 injured
Incident date: Jul 12, 2025
I have again taken my vehicle in for about 8th time trying to get an understanding of why my vehicle vibrates. Again, I was told that the problem could not be duplicated. However, when picking up, I had a discussion with the service manager whom had driven the vehicle as well.. He stated that he felt and heard something from the rear end. I explained that I had the differential fluid change about ... Read more
Incident date: Jul 12, 2025
I have again taken my vehicle in for about 8th time trying to get an understanding of why my vehicle vibrates. Again, I was told that the problem could not be duplicated. However, when picking up, I had a discussion with the service manager whom had driven the vehicle as well.. He stated that he felt and heard something from the rear end. I explained that I had the differential fluid change about ... Read more
Incident date: Jul 16, 2023
The contact rented a 2023 Tesla Model 3. The contact stated that while driving at 55 MPH in the rain, a vehicle in front of him abruptly slowed down. The contact depressed the brake pedal, but the vehicle jerked to the side. The contact stated that the emergency braking system unexpectedly activated ("slams on") while he was driving due to the Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) system falsely detec... Read more
Crash
1 injured
Incident date: Jul 16, 2023
The contact owns a 2006 Suzuki LS650P. The contact stated that while riding at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the motorcycle that sounded like metal on metal. After a visual inspection, the contact observed that the fuel tank was not secured to the motorcycle and was able to move freely as the rear bracket was fractured. No warning lights were illuminated. The motorc... Read more
Incident date: Jul 16, 2023
Steering rack is binding, not returning to center after completing a turn. Only 50,000 miles on it.
Incident date: Jul 1, 2024
On two separate occasions, my young children were locked inside the vehicle, and on one of the two occasions my elderly mother was also locked inside. In all incidents, the doors and windows remained closed and would not unlock, even when attempting to use the key fob. Specifically, after parking, I exited the driver’s seat and closed my door. When I went to open the rear doors to get my childr... Read more
Incident date: Jul 1, 2024
On two separate occasions, my young children were locked inside the vehicle, and on one of the two occasions my elderly mother was also locked inside. In all incidents, the doors and windows remained closed and would not unlock, even when attempting to use the key fob. Specifically, after parking, I exited the driver’s seat and closed my door. When I went to open the rear doors to get my childr... Read more
Incident date: Jul 12, 2025
I purchased this 2018 Ford Escape in August 2022 from Richmond Ford. Within 2 days to a week I noticed fault indicators stating check engine, failed Auto stop and start malfunctioning. I immediately reported this issue. Richmond Ford put me in a loaner for approximately 2 months to only remedy the problem with a new battery. This has happened for 3 years. I’ve had 4 batteries replaced even recen... Read more
Incident date: Jul 14, 2025
ABS module will breakdown pre-maturely. Warning lights on the dashboard will come on like the ABS, VSA and parking breaks while driving. So, the ABS and VSA is not working while driving that can cause the vehicle to lock up the breaks.
Incident date: Jul 14, 2025
The head rest on the driver side popped open without a crash.
Incident date: Jul 12, 2025
Infotainment screen (LCD) of Mazda CX-9 2018 has developed what looks like discoloration/scratching/frost in corner of screen about 2 years ago and it is continuing to spread over last 6 months. This screen is used for hands-free bluetooth/calling (which is now the law in Iowa) and the back-up camera which allows for safe backing. If screen is unreadable, these safety functions cannot be performed... Read more
Incident date: Jul 12, 2025
I was driving with FSD on [XXX] and had to intervene to take control when a bumper showed up on the road. When FSD was driving in standard mode, it was driving at 72 miles/ hr and was too close to the prior car. When the prior car quickly dodged the bumper my car was already too close to the bumper and needed to make a quick turn. The car almost rolled over. Dashcam video: [XXX] INFORMATION REDA... Read more
Incident date: Jul 12, 2025
I am experiencing intermittent and unexpected loss of power steering assist in my 2013 RAM 1500. The issue typically happens suddenly after while driving at low speeds, high speed or during turns, and it makes the vehicle very difficult to steer safely, locked up, especially during tight maneuvers or in parking situations. There are warning light of power steering appears for a second and go away... Read more
Incident date: Jul 12, 2025
The fuel tank has an evap leak that somehow breaks on top the tank so it leaks the gas vapors and could potentially start a fire but the part that breaks is a non serviceable part so it can’t be fixed without purchasing a whole new gas tank that isn’t cheap. My other concern is the infamous grounding issue with the wires on the ground g105 I believe right next to oil filter that grounds the tr... Read more
Incident date: Jul 12, 2025
Horn has stopped working. Appears it happens often with the 24 sorento. Almost had a car collision due to the inability to warn the driver of the other car that I was in my lane. I do have an appointment to have it looked at, but not for almost 2 weeks.
Incident date: Jul 10, 2025
I took my car to Tesla service to have 3 tires changed. On the drive home for the service, the car automatically pulled the to right several times with the final time pulling so hard, the car jumped the curb and damaged the car. Speaking with the Tesla service associate after the accident, they admitted that they did not complete alignment of the tires and that the automatic lane correction mechan... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Jul 10, 2025
System: Exterior Lighting / Visibility / Unknown or Other VIN: [XXX] Mileage: Approx. 93,500 Date: October 2024 Issue: After a service visit, my headlights became excessively bright and misaligned. The windshield also began reflecting light in distorted ways, especially at night or in rain. I now experience glare, light flickering, and visibility interference. This makes night driving unsafe and... Read more
Incident date: Jul 10, 2025
My 2018 F150 has a faulty transmission, started slipping and down shifting. These transmissions need to be recalled. In the shop now. These on going issues need to be addressed and resolved. Thank you [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Incident date: May 26, 2025
The glare that reflects from the dashboard onto the windshield distorts and obstructs the driver’s view of the road. It can render important hazards invisible to the driver. Very dangerous situation!!
Incident date: May 26, 2025
The paint started peeling on my 2019 Kia Sportage
TESLA
CYBERTRUCK
(2024) — FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Jul 11, 2025
Incident date: May 6, 2025
Initially my van began with a simple engine stall and total electrical failure while driving down the highway. The check engine light came on and the van was taken to the dealer to explore the problem. Multiple codes were found and were fixed which included coils, O2 sensors, fuel pump control module and several other things. Then a few days after picking the van up from the shop it had another en... Read more
Incident date: Jul 5, 2025
The contact owns a 2024 GMC Sierra 2500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and approaching a stop, the contact simultaneously depressed the brake pedal and accelerator pedal, causing the vehicle to move forward and to stop simultaneously. The contact stated that the pedals were significantly close to each other. The contact’s foot was sliding off the pedals. The vehic... Read more
Incident date: Jul 9, 2025
When I go in reverse my camera suddenly turns off or goes upside down risking property damage and personal injury. It doesn't happen every time just out of know where.
Incident date: Jul 7, 2025
The car randomly throws "consider taking a coffee break" warning, which distracts from driving and can cause an accident. The feature should be removed or the driver should have an option to disable it
Incident date: May 9, 2025
The contact owns a 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan. The contact stated that the actuator for the driver’s side rear sliding door failed to operate as intended, and the contact was forced to secure the door with a ratchet strap. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the door actuator was faulty a... Read more
Incident date: Jul 9, 2025
The contact owns a 2019 Chevrolet Blazer. The contact stated that while attempting to turn off the vehicle on several occasions, the gear shifter was shifted into park(P) but the vehicle failed to recognize that the gear shifter was in park(P). The contact stated that the message "Shift to Park" was displayed. The contact stated that the vehicle was not able to be turned off and remained in drive(... Read more
Incident date: Jun 26, 2025
CVT failed at 85,000 miles. It started slipping and squealing and had to be replaced by the dealership. The car was never driven rough, in mountainous terrain, etc. Very disappointing.
Incident date: Nov 9, 2024
The contact owns a 2018 Nissan Kicks. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle occasionally experienced reduction in automotive power with the "System Malfunction" message displayed. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the battery had been replaced twice however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where the vehicle... Read more
Incident date: Jul 2, 2025
The car makes a raddled noise when turn on and the car turns off when I press the brakes
Incident date: Jul 2, 2025
The car makes a raddled noise when turn on and the car turns off when I press the brakes
Incident date: Jul 8, 2025
The car began making a grinding noise, shimmied and surged. Independent mechanic found documentation online that Honda reported that if this occurred in 2017 Honda Pilots the problem could be the Fuel Pump Direct Injection High Pressure part. To correct problem this part must be replaced. Mechanic did replace this part which corrected the problems.
Incident date: Jul 5, 2025
⸻ Title: Loss of Power While Driving on Freeway – Dangerous Malfunction Similar to Recall 23V-116 Complaint Description: I am reporting a serious and dangerous malfunction with my 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon EcoDiesel. While driving on a high-speed freeway (70–80 MPH), all warning lights on the dashboard illuminated—including the check engine light—and the vehicle suddenly went into li... Read more
Incident date: Jul 8, 2025
Owned the 2021 Honda Passport for 4 years and have had multiple issues over that time. 1st. Electrical issues. Randomly while driving the center/head unit will continuously restart on a loop until vehicle is turned off and turned back on. 2nd. The speakers make crackling noises randomly while driving. Even when the audio/speakers are turned off the crackling continues. (Very loud and annoying) ... Read more
Incident date: Jul 7, 2025
My 2017 Kia Soul (VIN: [XXX] ) is experiencing piston ring failure, which has led to excessive oil consumption and the failure of my catalytic converter. The engine is a 2.0L Nu MPI—the same engine type covered under Kia recalls SC176 and SC200—but my VIN is currently excluded. This is a known manufacturing defect that causes oil to enter the combustion chamber, damaging the catalytic convert... Read more
Incident date: Mar 27, 2024
Peeling steering wheel, eventually will need to replaced due to not being able to grab wheel and lose grip when I turn. Many others complain of the same problem with model x and Tesla wants $1800 to replace. I refuse to use my insurance to pay for this so they have not inspected it.
Incident date: Mar 27, 2024
My car won’t stay started as if the gas is not going through the engine. I was told it might be the fuel control module or fuel pump
Incident date: Jul 1, 2025
My car won’t stay started as if the gas is not going through the engine. I was told it might be the fuel control module or fuel pump
Incident date: Jul 1, 2025
[XXX]- [XXX]am. Trying to park in YMCA located in camp hill PA. Took soft right turn to park. Car accelerated instead of recognizing break, which I applied when I see it accelerating. Then I left break so it can take emergency break that didn’t happened it keep going and cross over the parking curb about six Torah inch high and went in a ditch. I did not hurt but car front damaged. Tesla wa... Read more
Incident date: Jul 1, 2025
“Camera temporarily available” is still a very frequent message when backing up despite update to software version P3.6.4, which is claimed to have fixed the issue, the basis of recall number RP1057 (NHTSA recall 25V280000).