Hyundai Recalls Thousands of SUVs Due to Fire Risk, Warns Owners to Park Outside
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The recall information is based on public announcements and official documents.
Hyundai has issued a critical safety recall for 135,394 of its popular 2024 and 2025 Santa Fe SUVs due to a manufacturing defect that poses a fire risk. The company advises some owners to park their vehicles outdoors and away from structures until the repair is completed.
The recall centers on a problem with the starter motor. In certain vehicles, the starter motor may have been improperly installed, which can cause an electrical short circuit. This short creates two distinct and dangerous scenarios for drivers.
Two paths to a dangerous situation
The first and most alarming risk is that the short circuit can occur unexpectedly, even when the vehicle is turned off and parked. This is why Hyundai has explicitly warned owners of affected vehicles to park outside and away from garages or other buildings to prevent a potential fire from spreading to structures.
The second risk involves an accident scenario. In the event of a crash, the improperly installed starter motor is more susceptible to damage and an electrical short, which significantly increases the likelihood of a post-collision fire. This adds a hidden layer of danger to what may already be a traumatic event.
What Santa Fe owners need to do now
If you own a 2024 or 2025 Santa Fe, taking the following steps is crucial for your safety:
- Check your VIN: Immediately confirm if your vehicle is included in this recall. You can do this by entering your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the official Hyundai recall website or the NHTSA recall website. Your VIN is located on the driver's side dashboard, inside the driver's side door jamb, or on your insurance card
- Heed the parking warning: If your SUV is part of the recall, the safest practice is to park it outdoors until it has been repaired, regardless of which specific starter motor issue it has
- Schedule a free repair: Hyundai will begin notifying owners by mail starting November 22, 2025. Once you receive notice, contact a local Hyundai dealership to schedule a free repair, which involves inspecting and, if necessary, replacing the starter motor. You can also call Hyundai customer service at 855-371-9460 with questions
Why this recall matters for your safety and legal rights
For our readers at YourAccident.com, this recall serves as a stark reminder that vehicle safety isn't always solely about driver behavior. A manufacturing defect can introduce a severe hazard that is completely outside of a driver's control.
This situation highlights several key points:
- Post-accident dangers can be magnified: A defect can turn a collision into a far more severe incident. A resulting fire can lead to more catastrophic injuries, raising complex questions about manufacturer liability alongside driver fault
- Proactive documentation is key: If you experience any warning signs, such as a burning smell or smoke from the engine, report it to the NHTSA and keep a detailed record. This documentation can be vital
- Understanding liability is crucial: When a vehicle's design or manufacturing defect causes or worsens an accident, the manufacturer may be held responsible for the resulting injuries and damages
While this recall focuses on a preventive fix, it underscores the unpredictable nature of auto accidents and the importance of knowing all your rights and options if a vehicle defect plays a role in a crash.
For more information on your legal options after a vehicle accident, please visit our educational resources, and keep current by visiting our news page.
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