Category Archives: Hyundai

News about Hyundai automobile manufacturer. News about Hyundai recalls, technical service bulletins (TSB), and problems regarding Hyundai vehicles.

2021-2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Problems

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The Hyundai Santa Fe is a popular choice for families and adventurers alike, known for its spacious design, modern features, and reasonable price point. However, recent models (2021-2024) have experienced a series of issues that have frustrated owners and raised safety concerns. These common problems affect Santa Fe vehicles with GDI engines.

Common Issues Affecting the 2021-2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

  1. Fuel Injector Problems Leading to Stalling
    A major concern for many Santa Fe owners is the vehicle’s fuel injector system. Faulty fuel injectors can cause the engine to stall unexpectedly, especially in models with GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engines. These issues have led to numerous complaints of the vehicle stalling while driving, creating hazardous situations on busy roads.
  2. Loss of Power
    Some owners report a sudden loss of power while driving, particularly when accelerating or maintaining speed on the highway. This loss of power can be alarming and dangerous, especially in situations where acceleration is necessary, such as merging or overtaking. Many drivers have reported that their Santa Fe either stalls entirely or hesitates significantly before regaining power, often triggering check engine or warning lights.
  3. Persistent Check Engine Light
    For Santa Fe models across 2021-2024, the check engine light has become a frequent visitor. Many owners report that the light comes on without clear resolution, even after multiple trips to the dealership. While the check engine light could signify any number of issues, the combination of repeated lights and related powertrain issues has led to frustration and concerns about reliability.

Complaints and Recalls for Each Model Year

2021 Hyundai Santa Fe

Owners of the 2021 model have raised concerns about fuel system problems, including fuel leaks at the pipe connection and improperly tightened fuel pipes. Powertrain complaints are also prevalent, with owners describing issues such as failure to accelerate and hesitation while driving. Recalls include:

  • Tow Hitch Harness Fire Hazard: Due to water accumulation, an electrical short could lead to a fire.
  • Loss of Drive Power: A transmission oil pump malfunction can cause total power loss.
  • Inadequate Windshield Bonding: Improper bonding during manufacturing may cause the windshield to detach in a crash.

2022 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2022 Santa Fe has seen similar powertrain issues, with some owners reporting a sudden inability to accelerate and warning lights like “Check Hybrid System.” The “phantom braking” issue has also emerged, where the emergency braking system activates without reason, nearly causing accidents. Recalls for the 2022 model include:

  • Tow Hitch Harness Fire Hazard
  • Loss of Drive Power
  • Turbocharger Oil Supply Pipe Leak: A cracked oil supply pipe could lead to leaks in the engine compartment.

2023 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV

In the 2023 plug-in hybrid models, forward collision avoidance issues have led to abrupt braking in traffic. Complaints also include poor acceleration response, with significant delay or lag from the time the accelerator is pressed to when the vehicle actually moves. Key recalls include:

  • Tow Hitch Harness Fire Hazard
  • Seat Belt Pretensioners May Explode: This recall affects the front seat belt pretensioners, which may explode upon deployment in a crash.

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

For the latest 2024 model, powertrain and electrical issues are significant. Some drivers report the vehicle losing motive power and experiencing flickering dashboard screens. Complaints include blacked-out instrument panels, “Transmission System Check” warnings, and persistent audio issues that continue even when the vehicle is off. Recalls for this model include:

  • Unintentional Airbag Deployment or Deactivation: Damaged wiring harnesses can lead to unintended airbag activation or deactivation.
  • Vehicle Roll Away from Software Error: A transmission software error may result in a roll-away when the vehicle is parked.
  • Obstructed Rear-View Camera Image: A trailer parking assist message may obstruct the rear-view camera, violating rear visibility standards.

Should You Be Concerned?

These issues have led to frustration for many Hyundai Santa Fe owners. If you’re experiencing any of the above problems, it’s essential to address them promptly for your safety. Keep an eye out for any recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) from Hyundai, and report any persistent issues to your dealer.

What’s Next?

The 2021-2024 Hyundai Santa Fe offers many attractive features but has also faced considerable challenges, particularly with its powertrain and fuel injector systems. If you’re dealing with ongoing issues, it’s crucial to know your rights, especially if repairs have been ineffective. Lemon laws may protect you if your vehicle has recurring problems that affect its performance or safety. Consider consulting with a lemon law professional to discuss options if repairs haven’t resolved the issue.

Owning a car should be about convenience and freedom – not worry over performance and safety. If you’re having trouble with your Santa Fe, stay informed, stay safe, and know your options.

Hyundai Santa Fe Air Bag Warning Light

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In April 2024, Hyundai became aware of a significant safety issue involving the main floor wiring harness in certain 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe and Santa Fe Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) models. This issue was first identified following reports of an inadvertent rear seat side airbag deployment in a Santa Fe vehicle in South Korea. As a result, Hyundai initiated a preliminary investigation, which was subsequently extended to include the North American market.

The defect centers on the main floor wire harness, which in the affected vehicles is susceptible to damage due to contact with the passenger-side, second-row bench seat’s folding hinge assembly. This contact can result in the wire harness becoming chafed, leading to several potential hazards:

  • Illumination of the Air Bag Warning Light: A damaged wire harness can trigger the air bag warning light on the vehicle’s dashboard, indicating a malfunction.
  • Inadvertent Air Bag Deployment: The damage can cause the airbags to deploy unintentionally, posing a significant risk to vehicle occupants.
  • Failure to Deploy Air Bags During a Crash: Conversely, the damage could also prevent the airbags from deploying in the event of a crash, reducing the effectiveness of this critical safety feature.

Hyundai’s investigation revealed eight unique incidents related to this defect in the U.S. market. These findings prompted the company to take immediate action to address the issue and ensure the safety of its customers.

Hyundai will notify affected vehicle owners via first-class mail, instructing them to bring their vehicles to an authorized Hyundai dealer for inspection and repair. The repair process will involve:

  1. Inspection of the Wire Harness: Dealers will check the condition of the main floor wire harness for any signs of damage.
  2. Securing the Wire Harness: If no damage is found, the harness will be properly secured to prevent future contact with the seat’s folding hinge assembly.
  3. Replacement of Damaged Wire Harness: If damage is detected, the wire harness will be replaced with a new one to ensure the vehicle’s safety systems function correctly.


As a precaution, Hyundai advises vehicle owners to be vigilant for any of the warning symptoms mentioned in the defect report, such as the air bag warning light illuminating. If any of these symptoms are present, owners are urged to immediately go for diagnosis and the necessary repairs.

Owner notification letters are scheduled to be mailed out on September 23, 2024. Hyundai has assigned the internal recall number 265 to this campaign, while the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has designated it as campaign number 24V-561.

Hyundai Genesis Oil Feed Pipe Leak

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Hyundai Motor America (HMC) is reaching out to owners of specific Genesis G70, G80, and G90 vehicles equipped with a 3.3-liter V6 turbocharged engine about a crucial safety concern. This issue involves the oil feed pipe that could potentially deteriorate and lead to oil leakage, posing a risk of engine compartment fires.

What’s the Problem?

The defect lies in the left hand (LH) turbocharger oil supply pipe within these vehicles. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures in the engine compartment can cause this pipe to crack, potentially resulting in oil leaks onto the exhaust manifold. Such leaks significantly increase the risk of engine compartment fires.

Investigation and Decision to Recall

HMC initiated an investigation into this issue in June 2023 after reports of similar incidents in foreign markets. The Data Review Committee (DRC) noted a concerning trend of turbocharger oil supply pipe repairs during colder seasons. After escalating the investigation to the Technical Review Committee (TRC) in February 2024, HMC confirmed the need for a safety recall.

The TRC observed repeat repairs related to a prior recall (Recall 003G – 19V-538) addressing oil leak issues caused by insufficient swaging of the turbocharger oil supply pipe fitting. The affected vehicles, including those addressed in the previous recall, were manufactured before a material change to stainless steel pipes was implemented by the supplier around August 2021.

Affected Vehicles and Reports

The recall affects approximately:

  • 14,186 model year 2019-2022 Genesis G70 vehicles
  • 7,372 model year 2018-2020 Genesis G80 vehicles
  • 6,881 model year 2017-2022 Genesis G90 vehicles

As of January 15, 2024, HMC has received 81 reports alleging the defect in the U.S. market. However, no confirmed crashes, injuries, or fires related to this issue have been reported.

Signs of Trouble

Owners should remain vigilant for signs indicating a potential problem with the oil feed pipe, including:

  • White smoke
  • Burning smell
  • Oil leaking onto ground surfaces

What Next?

All affected vehicle owners will receive notification by first-class mail, providing instructions to visit a Genesis retailer for replacement of the LH turbocharger oil supply pipe. The recall number assigned to this issue is 019G. The NHTSA campaign number is 24V-191, replacing the previous recall number 19V-538. Vehicles previously serviced under recall 19V-538 will require another repair.

Hyundai Kona Potential Engine Compartment Fire From Short Circuit

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Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is initiating a recall for certain 2024 Kona models due to a potential risk of electrical short circuiting. This issue arises from the possibility of the battery cables rubbing against the engine control module bracket.

These vehicles are equipped with a 12-volt positive battery cable that could suffer damage during frontal collisions, leading to contact with the engine control module (ECM) bracket. This contact increases the likelihood of an electrical short, which could result in a fire in the engine compartment post-collision. Signs of this problem include smoke or a burning smell emanating from the engine area.

The issue first came to Hyundai’s attention in November 2023, following a report by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) about an engine compartment fire in a 2024 Hyundai Kona 1.6T-GDI AWD during a crash test. The IIHS observed smoke and flames emerging from the engine area shortly after the test. Their preliminary assessment indicated a short circuit in the ECM, which led to repeated reignitions. The situation was resolved after disconnecting the auxiliary battery. This incident prompted NASO to launch a new investigation.

A joint examination by NASO, HMC, HATCI, and IIHS revealed damage to the alternator and 12-volt positive power wiring beneath the ECM, with exposed copper cores. The ECM bracket was found pressing against the 12-volt positive battery cable, believed to have shifted during the crash and caused the electrical short leading to the fires.

In response, Hyundai conducted crash tests in December with newly designed sheathing to protect the 12-volt positive wiring from shorting due to ECM bracket contact. These tests were successful, showing no damage or electrical shorting. Consequently, HMA’s NASO decided to recall the affected Kona vehicles.

To date, there have been no reported crashes, injuries, or deaths related to this issue, except for the single fire incident during the IIHS test. Hyundai is unaware of any field incidents. Vehicle owners will be notified to return their vehicles to Hyundai dealers for the installation of protective sheathing over the wiring. The recall is designated as number 252, with NHTSA campaign number 23V-900.

Loss Of Drive Power From Fuel Pump Failure

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Hyundai is taking action to address a fuel pump issue in certain 2021-2022 Genesis vehicles. This problem came to Hyundai’s attention in September 2022 when they received their first warranty claim related to a 2022 Genesis GV70 vehicle experiencing a stall / hesitation problem. As more warranty claims started pouring in, Hyundai launched an investigation to pinpoint the root cause of the issue.

The vehicles affected include:

  • 2021-2022 Genesis G80
  • 2022 Genesis GV70
  • 2021-2022 Genesis GV80

In June 2023, Hyundai successfully replicated the problem. Their investigation, which included a dimensional tolerance CT scan, revealed a potential problem: interference between the impeller (a key component of the fuel pump) and its housing, causing an obstruction. Hyundai collaborated with the supplier and identified a specific production lot of fuel pump assemblies that lacked sufficient impeller material. This issue potentially affected vehicles manufactured between June 2021 and December 2021. Consequently, Hyundai made the decision to initiate a recall.

The issue lies with the low-pressure fuel pump assemblies in these vehicles. Some of these assemblies may contain impellers that do not meet the required material specifications, which can lead to deformations. This deformation can result in the impeller interfering with the fuel pump housing, creating mechanical resistance that can cause the fuel pump to shut down.

A fuel pump shutdown can severely restrict the flow of fuel to the engine, potentially causing a sudden reduction or complete loss of power while driving. This poses an increased risk of accidents.

As of the latest available data up to August 22, 2023, Hyundai has received reports of 879 unique incidents related to this defect condition in the United States, spanning from July 1, 2021. Fortunately, there have been no confirmed crashes, fires, or injuries linked to this fuel pump issue.

To rectify the problem, authorized Hyundai dealers will replace the affected fuel pumps. The recall associated with this issue is identified by Hyundai as number 016G, and it has been assigned the NHTSA campaign number 23V-630. Additionally, the NHTSA has designated a specific campaign number for the fuel pump recall, which is 23E-068.

In summary, Hyundai is addressing a fuel pump problem in certain 2021-2022 Genesis vehicles to ensure the safety and reliability of these vehicles on the road. If you own one of these vehicles, it is important to receive the necessary replacement to avoid potential issues related to the fuel pump.

Electric Oil Pump Failure May Cause Fire

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Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) and Kia America, Inc. (Kia) are contacting owners of certain 2023-2024 vehicles because these vehicles are potentially affected by a critical issue related to the electric oil pump assembly. The problem could lead to a vehicle fire.

According to the defect report, the problem lies in a Multi-Layer Ceramic Capacitor (MLCC) located on the printed circuit board within the Idle Stop & Go (ISG) electric oil pump assembly for the transmission. During the manufacturing process, the MLCC may have incurred damage from the supplier. This damage can have severe consequences on the electrical operation of the pump, leading to heat damage to the electric oil pump circuit board, connector, and wiring harness.

The consequences of this heat damage are twofold. Firstly, it escalates the risk of a vehicle fire, which can pose a significant threat to both the occupants and the vehicle itself. Secondly, there is a potential for a Controller Area Network (CAN) communication disruption for multiple onboard controllers. This disruption could lead to operational issues and compromises in the vehicle’s performance.

A range of 2023-2024 Hyundai and Kia models have been identified as being susceptible to this issue. The affected vehicles include:

The vehicles affected include:

2023 Hyundai Elantra
2023 Hyundai Kona
2023-2024 Hyundai Palisade
2023 Hyundai Sonata
2023 Hyundai Tucson
2023-2024 Kia Seltos
2023 Kia Soul
2023 Kia Sportage

Drivers may notice smoke from the vehicle’s under-body, a burning or melting odor or an illuminated Malfunction Indicator Light and other system dashboard warning lamps.

To address this potential problem, Hyundai and Kia are taking immediate action by issuing a recall. Owners of the affected vehicles will be notified and requested to schedule an appointment with their nearest Hyundai or Kia dealerships. During the inspection process, the electric oil pump controller will be inspected, and if necessary, replaced to ensure optimal performance and safety.

As a precautionary measure until the recall repair is completed, owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures. This will minimize the potential risk of a vehicle fire and provide added safety for both the vehicle and surrounding property.

For reference, Hyundai has designated the recall with the number 246, and the corresponding NHTSA campaign number is 23V-526. Meanwhile, Kia has assigned the recall with the number SC275, and the associated NHTSA campaign number is 23V-531.

2023 Hyundai Palisade Loss of Brake Assist

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Hyundai Motor Company (HMC) has recently taken steps to address a potential issue with certain 2023 Hyundai Palisade vehicles, which may affect their brakes. The company has initiated a recall and will be reaching out to the owners of these specific models to address the problem.

The concern revolves around the brake booster diaphragm, which has the potential to become misaligned. This misalignment can lead to an internal vacuum leak, resulting in a loss of power brake assist. Hyundai became aware of this issue during the assembly of certain 2023 Hyundai Palisade vehicles produced between April 28, 2023, and May 5, 2023.

These particular vehicles were equipped with brake boosters that contained diaphragms prone to becoming unseated. The cause of this problem was traced back to improperly manufactured assembly housings from one of Hyundai’s suppliers. Upon further investigation, by the end of May, Hyundai Motor America (HMA) identified several affected vehicles from the production range that were not retained at the port.

In light of this information, the North America Safety Decision Authority (NASDA) of the National Automotive Safety Organization (NASO) promptly convened to discuss the situation. After careful evaluation, NASDA made the decision to initiate a safety recall in order to address all potentially affected 2023 Hyundai Palisade vehicles sold in the United States.

Owners of the affected vehicles will receive official notices from Hyundai, instructing them to return to their authorized dealers for further assistance. Upon visiting the dealership, the brake booster of each vehicle will be thoroughly inspected, and if necessary, replaced to rectify the issue. Hyundai has assigned the recall number 245 to this particular action, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has designated it as campaign number 23V-415.

Ensuring the safety and satisfaction of its customers is of utmost importance to Hyundai, and the company is taking action to address this brake-related concern in a comprehensive and timely manner. By promptly contacting affected vehicle owners, conducting thorough inspections, and making any necessary repairs or replacements, Hyundai aims to resolve the issue and provide peace of mind to its customers.

2023 Genesis G90 Abnormal Pretensioner Deployment

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Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) will be contacting the owners of certain 2023 Genesis G90 luxury sedans because of a defect affecting the seat belt pretensioners in their vehicles. The problem could result in an increased chance of injury to vehicle occupants.

In October 2022, Hyundai received information pertaining to an investigation into allegations of abnormal seat belt pretensioner deployments in vehicles associated with recalls 21V-796, 22V-069, 22V-123, 22V-218, 22V-354, and 22V-458. Recall 22V-816 was initiated as Hyundai continued to evaluate vehicles equipped with the same Samsong pretensioners that had not yet been recalled..

In January, during the continued analysis of the airbag control unit (ACU) crash pulse data recovered from a North Carolina incident, they found that the micro gas generator (MGG) separated despite having a lower pretensioner “time-to-fire”. This was the problem that was previously thought to be the contributor to over-pressurization of the pretensioner pipe. Because of this information, the North America Safety Office (NASO) decided to conduct a safety recall 012G (23V-094) of Genesis G80, GV60, GV70, and GV80 vehicles equipped with pretensioners without a vent valve. Recall 012G (23V-094) supersedes Recall 009G, obsoleting all affected population(s) of Recall 211/009G (21V-796).

In March, during the review of details surrounding Hyundai’s assessment of the open investigation into the recent recalls, Hyundai noted that the recent recalls address all U.S. vehicles equipped with the subject Samsong seat belt pretensioner excluding Genesis G90 vehicles. The G90 contains the same seat belt pretensioners but because it is installed facing outward and away from occupants, fragments entering the cabin area and injuring occupants are significantly less likely to happen. Based on this information, the NASO decided to conduct a safety recall (013G) of Genesis G90 vehicles equipped with pretensioners without a vent valve. NHTSA campaign number 23V-210.

According to the defect report, the subject vehicles are equipped with frontal/rear pyrotechnic-type seat belt pretensioners that could deploy abnormally in certain crash conditions. The problem is due to the over-pressurization of the pretensioner pipe. Depending on specific vehicle characteristics such as pretensioner load limiter specification, the airbag control unit logic, crash duration/severity, and micro-gas generator orientation, occupants could experience an increased risk of injury.

Owners of the affected vehicles will be notified with instructions to bring their vehicles to a Hyundai dealer to have the seat belt pretensioner’s micro gas generator and delivery pipe secured with a cap to prevent potential abnormal deployment.