Hyundai Issues Recall Over Potential Fire Hazard
Hyundai has announced a major recall affecting the 2024 and 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SUVs due to a fire risk linked to the starter solenoid wiring, which could short-circuit and ignite even when the vehicle is parked. The recall, which impacts more than 98,000 units sold in North America, was confirmed after several incidents were reported involving smoke and melted components in the engine compartment.
According to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the issue stems from improperly secured starter motor cables that can come into contact with surrounding metal parts, potentially leading to electrical shorting. If left unaddressed, this could cause thermal damage or even engine compartment fires while the vehicle is stationary or being driven.
What Owners Should Know
Hyundai is advising all 2024 and 2025 Santa Fe owners to park their vehicles outdoors and away from structures until the recall repair is completed. This precautionary measure is being taken to reduce the risk of property damage in the event of an unexpected fire.
The company says affected owners will be notified by mail starting in early November 2025, and authorized Hyundai dealerships will perform an inspection and repair free of charge. The fix involves replacing or repositioning the wiring harness and installing additional insulation to prevent future contact with metallic surfaces.
NHTSA Investigating Related Complaints
The recall follows several reports to the NHTSA of unusual smoke and burning odors detected under the hood shortly after ignition. While Hyundai has not confirmed any injuries or fatalities related to the defect, at least six incidents of localized engine compartment fires have been documented.
Hyundai’s U.S. arm has stated that it is cooperating fully with federal safety regulators and taking immediate action to ensure all affected vehicles are repaired quickly. The company is also conducting a supplier-level investigation to determine whether similar electrical components were used in other models, including the 2023 Santa Fe Hybrid and Kia Sorento, which share a similar platform.
Recall Expands to Hybrid and Plug-in Models
In addition to the gas-powered Santa Fe, Hyundai confirmed that certain Santa Fe Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) variants built between March 2023 and August 2025 are also included in the recall. The hybrid versions may experience overheating in the starter relay, a related issue that could cause similar fire risks.
Dealers have been instructed to stop selling affected vehicles until repairs are completed. Hyundai emphasized that the recall is a proactive safety measure, noting that only a small percentage of vehicles are likely to have defective wiring, but all units will be inspected.
Company Statement and Next Steps
In a public statement, Hyundai Motor America said:
“Hyundai takes the safety of its customers very seriously. We are working closely with our dealership network to ensure all affected 2024–2025 Hyundai Santa Fe vehicles are inspected and repaired as quickly as possible. Customers are urged to follow the parking instructions and schedule a recall appointment as soon as they are notified.”
Owners can check whether their vehicle is affected by visiting Hyundai’s official recall website or entering their VIN on the NHTSA recall lookup tool.
Broader Context: A Pattern of Electrical Recalls
This is not the first time Hyundai has faced a recall linked to fire risks. Over the past decade, the automaker has issued multiple safety campaigns involving electrical short circuits, brake fluid leaks, and anti-lock braking systems (ABS) that could spark engine fires. Regulators and consumer advocates have praised Hyundai for its transparency but urged faster response times to minimize potential harm.
Industry analysts suggest that as vehicles become more electrified and software-driven, automakers will continue to face new safety challenges related to complex wiring and electronic systems.
The Hyundai Santa Fe recall underscores the growing importance of stringent quality control and proactive safety measures in modern vehicle manufacturing. While the company has moved quickly to address the fire risk, owners are strongly encouraged to take the warning seriously and avoid parking their vehicles indoors until repairs are complete.
Consumers affected by the 2024–2025 Hyundai Santa Fe fire risk recall should monitor Hyundai’s website and official communications for updates on the repair process.
Stay informed with breaking auto and tech industry updates at Startup News
