US FederalCan I report a potential vehicle safety defect to NHTSA?
Yes, anyone in the U.S. can report a potential vehicle safety defect to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The law empowers NHTSA to investigate such reports and order recalls if a safety-related defect is confirmed.
What the Law Says
Federal law authorizes and encourages the public to report potential vehicle safety defects to NHTSA, which has the authority to investigate and require recalls when safety risks are confirmed.
The National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act establishes NHTSA’s mission to reduce deaths, injuries, and economic losses resulting from motor vehicle crashes. A core part of that mission is identifying and addressing safety-related defects in vehicles and equipment.
Under this law, NHTSA may investigate complaints from consumers, manufacturers, or other sources — and if it finds a safety-related defect, it can require the manufacturer to conduct a recall at no cost to vehicle owners.
You do not need technical expertise, legal representation, or proof beyond your observation to file a report. Your report contributes to NHTSA’s early detection system and may trigger an investigation — especially when multiple similar reports are received.
Statutory TextThe purpose of this chapter is to reduce traffic accidents and deaths and injuries to persons resulting from traffic accidents.
— 49 U.S.C. § 30101 — Purpose and policy
What to Do
Go to www.nhtsa.gov/recalls or call 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153)
Provide details about your vehicle (year/make/model), the issue, when it occurred, and any related incidents or injuries
Submit photos or repair records if available (optional but helpful)
NHTSA will assign a case number and may follow up for more information
Monitor NHTSA’s recall database to see if your report contributes to an official investigation or recall
Sources
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European UnionNot legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.