NHTSA complaint #11438853

Owner complaint summary

While driving at highway speed, 40-50mph during heavy rain; encountered a puddle, the plastic belly pan just forward of the rear axle acted as a scoop and took on water. This resulted in the belly pan bolt being ripped from the structure of the vehicle. The belly pan then folded under the car and was dragged. I had this fixed under warranty. During the next heavy rain, I again hit a puddle, the bolt was ripped from the structure again. Luckily both times I was able to slow to a stop. However I believe this presents a serious hazard at freeway speeds of +65mph, where the entire belly pan can disintegrate and fly off into traffic. This is a defect in design and does not hold up to normal wear. It presents a very significant problem. When looking at car forums, it appears this problem is wide spread and presents a very real risk of hurting someone.