panama7/Depositphotos
Hyundai recalls thousands of SUVs
Hyundai is recalling 135,386 Santa Fe SUVs in the U.S. due to a potential electrical short that could increase the risk of fire in certain crashes.
The issue affects select 2024 and 2025 models built in Alabama. An inspection found that the starter motor’s B+ terminal cover may not have been fully seated during assembly, allowing the exposed terminal to contact nearby parts and cause a short.
Hyundai will notify owners beginning December 1, and repairs will be provided free of charge. The company says the recall is a precautionary measure to ensure driver safety.
Krasnevsky/Depositphotos
The problem behind the recall
The recall traces back to a misplaced terminal cover on the starter motor. When not installed correctly, this cover can expose a metal connection point known as the “B+ terminal.”
In rare crash conditions, the exposed terminal might touch nearby components, such as the cooling fan assembly. That contact could cause an electrical short, which increases the risk of fire. Even though the defect only appears under specific conditions, Hyundai decided not to take any chances with driver safety.
Mirroni/Depositphotos
Which SUVs are affected
The recall targets non-hybrid 2024–2025 Santa Fe models equipped with Hyundai’s turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine built at HMMA (Dec. 28, 2023-Jul 7, 2025). Hybrid and plug-in hybrid Santa Fe variants are excluded from this action.
Owners can confirm if their SUV is affected by entering their vehicle identification number (VIN) on the official NHTSA website. Hyundai says only around one percent of the vehicles recalled are expected to have the defect, but every unit will be inspected.
huettenhoelscher/Depositphotos
What happens during a crash
The fire risk occurs only under certain crash conditions where the engine compartment is damaged. If the terminal cover shifts during impact, it may come into contact with nearby metal parts.
That contact might cause an electrical short, potentially leading to heat or sparks. While the chance of a fire is extremely low, Hyundai’s engineers say even small electrical issues can’t be ignored. The company wants to ensure that every affected Santa Fe meets full safety standards.
teddyleung/Depositphotos
How Hyundai found the issue
NHTSA’s NCAP front-barrier crash test on Nov. 20, 2024, produced smoke from the engine compartment. Hyundai’s follow-up inspections and bench tests traced the thermal event to a condition where the starter motor’s terminal cover could become exposed and contact the cooling-fan assembly in certain crash conditions.
After confirming the problem, Hyundai launched an internal review of manufacturing records. Engineers discovered that a small batch of starter motors might have been assembled without properly seated covers. No injuries or on-road fires have been reported; however, Hyundai has decided that a recall is necessary to prevent potential risks.
antonoffoto.mail.ru/Depositphotos
What Hyundai plans to do
Starting December 1, Hyundai will contact affected owners and dealers with instructions for the recall. Owners will be asked to visit a Hyundai dealership for a quick inspection.
Technicians will check the starter motor cover and reinstall it properly if needed. The repair will be free of charge. Hyundai will also reimburse owners who previously paid for related repairs. The automaker states that it’s committed to resolving the issue promptly and ensuring the safety of every Santa Fe on the road.
T.Schneider/Depositphotos
Easy ways to check your vehicle
It’s easy to determine if your vehicle is affected. Visit the NHTSA website and enter your car’s 17-digit VIN number. The website will confirm if your Santa Fe is under recall.
Owners can also call Hyundai customer service at 855-371-9460 for help. Representatives can schedule an appointment or answer any questions you may have about the inspection process. Taking a few minutes to inspect your vehicle now could save you time later and ensure your SUV remains safe to drive.
antonoffoto.mail.ru/Depositphotos
Hyundai’s fast response
Once the problem was confirmed, Hyundai acted quickly. The company filed recall paperwork with U.S. regulators and began preparing repair kits for dealerships across the nation.
Hyundai emphasized that this recall is a precautionary step. So far, there have been no reports of fires or injuries in real-world driving. By responding early, the automaker hopes to maintain customer confidence and demonstrate its commitment to safety.
Depositphotos
What drivers should do next
If you receive a recall letter, make an appointment at your local Hyundai dealership as soon as possible. The inspection and repair are completely free.
You can continue driving your Santa Fe until the repair is made, since the issue only poses a risk during a crash. However, Hyundai recommends keeping up with all maintenance and reporting any unusual electrical smells or warning lights immediately. Acting early ensures peace of mind.
samael334.gmail.com/Depositphotos
Why recalls are so common
Vehicle recalls may sound alarming, but they’re actually normal. Today’s vehicles contain thousands of parts, and even a small manufacturing slip can lead to a safety recall.
Most recalls are precautionary, aimed at preventing problems before they cause harm. Automakers and regulators work together to identify defects and notify their owners. The goal isn’t to create fear; it’s to keep drivers informed and protected.
eans/Depositphotos
Hyundai’s safety record
This is one of several safety actions Hyundai has taken this year, including a separate recall in September that affected more than 568,000 Palisade SUVs. Most of these recalls involve electrical components or software adjustments.
Hyundai’s prompt responses demonstrate a growing commitment to transparency and accountability. The company says it’s investing heavily in new quality checks at its U.S. factories. These steps aim to ensure small issues are caught long before vehicles reach the road.
artographer/Depositphotos
How Hyundai compares to others
Hyundai’s recall numbers may seem high, but they’re not unusual in today’s auto industry. Ford, for example, has recalled millions of cars this year due to various defects.
Compared to those, Hyundai’s recalls are smaller and more targeted. Most are focused on minor electrical parts rather than large-scale mechanical failures. Experts say Hyundai’s approach reflects a growing industry trend toward safety-first decision-making.
T.Schneider/Depositphotos
The role of safety regulators
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration oversees recalls like this one. It reviews reports, investigates potential defects, and ensures that automakers comply with safety laws.
When the NHTSA confirms a risk, it requires automakers to issue notices, repair vehicles at no cost, and track completion rates. This partnership between regulators and carmakers is designed to keep the driving public safe.
Why the Santa Fe matters
The Santa Fe is one of Hyundai’s top-selling SUVs, known for comfort, reliability, and modern design. It’s also a family favorite in the U.S. market.
The redesigned 2024 model brought a bold new look, with a boxier shape and upgraded features. Because it’s such an important vehicle, Hyundai’s quick recall decision reflects its commitment to protecting one of its most trusted models.
Depositphotos
The fix is quick and simple
The repair process for this recall is straightforward. Dealership technicians will inspect the starter motor, ensure the terminal cover is properly seated, and reinstall it if needed. Inspection time varies by dealer/workload; your service advisor can estimate the visit length.
Owners should ask their Hyundai dealer about loaner vehicles, rental reimbursement, or rideshare options while the repair is being completed. It’s a simple fix that restores confidence and peace of mind.
Think EV demand is cooling off? Hyundai’s newest model tells a different story.
MikeMareen/Depositphotos
Last updated: October 10, 2025
Lucky you! This thread is empty,
which means you've got dibs on the first comment.
Go for it!