How to File an NHTSA Complaint

NHTSA's complaint database is public. Attorneys, journalists, and other owners search it. Your complaint adds to the pattern that triggers investigations. The Ford/Lincoln transmission and powertrain failures affecting Navigators and Expeditions have generated hundreds of complaints — each one strengthens the case for a recall.

Filing also creates a timestamped federal record that you can reference in arbitration or litigation. It shows you took the defect seriously and reported it through official channels.

Your 17-character Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) — found on the driver's side dashboard, the door jamb sticker, or your registration. Your vehicle's year, make, model, and mileage at the time of the incident. A clear description of what happened: what the vehicle did (or failed to do), when it happened, road and weather conditions, and whether anyone was injured or there was a crash.

You do not need repair orders to file, but having them makes your complaint more detailed and credible. If you've had multiple incidents, describe the most serious one first, then note the pattern.

Go to nhtsa.gov/report-a-safety-problem. Select 'Vehicle' as the product type. Enter your VIN — the form will auto-populate year, make, and model. Confirm the details are correct.

Select the component category that best matches your defect. For transmission failures, choose 'Power Train: Automatic Transmission.' For electrical issues, choose 'Electrical System.' For engine problems, choose 'Engine.' If nothing fits exactly, choose the closest category and explain in the description.

Describe the problem in plain language. Be specific: 'While accelerating from a stop at approximately 35 mph, the transmission slipped and the vehicle lost power. The check engine light and powertrain malfunction warning illuminated. This has occurred 6 times since purchase.' Avoid vague language like 'the car acts up sometimes.'

Enter your contact information. NHTSA may follow up if they open an investigation. Your personal information is not published in the public database — only the vehicle details and complaint description are visible.

You'll receive a confirmation number. Save it. Your complaint will appear in the public database within a few days. You can search for it at nhtsa.gov/vehicle/complaints to verify it was recorded correctly.

If NHTSA opens a Preliminary Evaluation or Engineering Analysis on your vehicle's defect, you may be contacted. Cooperate — your information could contribute to a recall that protects other owners.

If you prefer not to file online, call the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern. A representative will walk you through the same information.