Vehicle recalls are a serious issue that can have deadly consequences. Below are 21 of the most recalled cars in U.S. history, highlighting their alarming defects, accident rates, and fatalities. Is your car on the list?

1. Ford Pinto (1971-1980)

The Ford Pinto became infamous for its exploding fuel tanks, which led to fires in rear-end collisions. Over 27 deaths were directly attributed to this defect. The Pinto was recalled in 1978 after public outrage and numerous lawsuits.

2. Chevrolet Cobalt (2005-2010)

The Chevrolet Cobalt was recalled due to a faulty ignition switch that could turn off the engine while driving, disabling power steering and airbags. This defect was linked to 124 deaths and 275 injuries. Over 2.6 million vehicles were recalled.

3. Toyota Camry (2007-2010)

The Toyota Camry faced recalls for unintended acceleration due to sticky gas pedals and floor mat entrapment. These issues led to multiple crashes and 89 deaths. Toyota recalled over 8 million vehicles globally.

4. Ford Explorer (1991-2001)

The Ford Explorer was notorious for rollover accidents caused by defective Firestone tires. These rollovers resulted in over 200 deaths and numerous injuries. Ford recalled 13 million tires in 2001.

5. Honda Accord (1998-2002)

The Honda Accord was involved in the massive Takata airbag recall, which affected millions of vehicles. The defective airbags could explode, causing severe injuries and at least 24 deaths worldwide. Honda recalled over 1.2 million Accords.

6. Jeep Grand Cherokee (1993-2004)

The Jeep Grand Cherokee had a defect in the fuel system that could cause fires in rear-end collisions. This defect led to at least 75 deaths. Chrysler eventually recalled 1.56 million Grand Cherokees​.

7. Ford Escape (2001-2013)

The Ford Escape was recalled multiple times for issues ranging from throttle body problems to power steering failures. These defects led to numerous accidents and at least 11 deaths. Over 1.5 million Escapes were recalled​.

8. Chevrolet Silverado (1999-2007)

The Chevrolet Silverado faced recalls for issues with its anti-lock brake system, which could fail and lead to increased stopping distances. This defect was linked to several crashes and injuries. GM recalled over 1.3 million Silverados​.

9. Toyota Corolla (2009-2010)

The Toyota Corolla was part of the unintended acceleration recall, causing accidents and fatalities. At least 37 deaths were linked to this defect. Toyota recalled millions of Corollas to fix the issue.

10. Nissan Altima (2013-2015)

The Nissan Altima had problems with its secondary hood latch, which could fail and cause the hood to fly open while driving. This defect led to several accidents and injuries. Nissan recalled nearly 1 million Altimas.

11. Volkswagen Jetta (2009-2016)

The Volkswagen Jetta was recalled for faulty fuel leaks and defective suspension components. These issues increased the risk of fire and loss of vehicle control. VW recalled over 1.6 million Jettas.

12. Hyundai Sonata (2011-2014)

The Hyundai Sonata had problems with its engine, which could seize and cause a sudden loss of power. This defect led to numerous accidents and injuries. Hyundai recalled 1.5 million Sonatas​.

13. Mazda 6 (2003-2008)

The Mazda 6 was recalled due to a fuel tank defect that could cause leaks and increase the risk of fire. This issue was linked to multiple accidents and injuries. Mazda recalled over 1.2 million vehicles.

14. Ford F-150 (2011-2013)

The Ford F-150 faced recalls for issues with its transmission, which could unexpectedly shift into first gear. This defect caused numerous accidents and at least one death. Ford recalled over 1.3 million F-150s.

15. Chrysler Pacifica (2017-2018)

The Chrysler Pacifica was recalled for a stalling problem due to a defect in the engine control module. This issue led to several crashes and injuries. Chrysler recalled over 150,000 Pacificas​.

16. Subaru Outback (2010-2014)

The Subaru Outback had issues with its brake lines, which could corrode and cause a loss of braking ability. This defect was linked to multiple accidents and injuries. Subaru recalled over 600,000 Outbacks.

17. GMC Sierra (2007-2013)

The GMC Sierra faced recalls for problems with its airbags and brake lights, which could fail without warning. These defects led to several crashes and injuries. GM recalled over 900,000 Sierras.

18. Kia Sorento (2011-2013)

The Kia Sorento had issues with its airbag system, which could fail to deploy in a crash. This defect was linked to numerous accidents and injuries. Kia recalled over 500,000 Sorentos.

19. Dodge Ram (2003-2008)

The Dodge Ram was recalled for problems with its steering linkage, which could fail and cause a loss of vehicle control. This defect led to multiple accidents and injuries. Chrysler recalled over 1 million Rams​.

20. Acura TL (2004-2008)

The Acura TL had issues with its power steering hose, which could degrade and leak fluid, increasing the risk of fire. This defect led to several accidents and injuries. Acura recalled over 500,000 TLs​.

21. BMW 3 Series (1999-2006)

The BMW 3 Series faced recalls for defective airbags and electrical issues that could cause fires. These defects were linked to multiple accidents and injuries. BMW recalled over 1.4 million 3 Series vehicles.

Recall a Recall? 

Owning a car that has been recalled for serious safety defects is a troubling reality for many drivers. These recalls highlight the importance of staying informed about your vehicle’s safety and addressing any recall notices promptly. Remember, what might seem like a minor issue could have catastrophic consequences. Check if your car is on this list and take action to ensure your safety.

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For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.