Hyundai Motor has announced a major recall of over 135,000 Santa Fe SUVs in the United States after the discovery of a potential fire hazard linked to a faulty starter motor installation, according to the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The recall impacts 2024 and 2025 model year Hyundai Santa Fe SUVs equipped with 2.5-litre turbocharged engines, produced between December 28, 2023, and July 7, 2025, at the company’s Alabama manufacturing plant. The issue stems from the protective cover of the starter motor not being properly installed during assembly, which can lead to an electrical short circuit and increase the risk of a fire, especially in the event of a crash.
Hyundai has urged affected vehicle owners to contact their dealerships immediately for inspection and repair. The company has stated that the repairs will be conducted free of charge, and customer notification letters are expected to be sent soon. Although no major incidents or injuries have been reported yet, Hyundai is taking preventive measures to eliminate potential hazards.
This latest action adds to a growing list of automotive recalls across the industry due to manufacturing or software defects. Toyota, for instance, recently recalled nearly 400,000 vehicles in the US because of a rearview camera malfunction that may fail to display properly when reversing. The recall covers 2022–2025 Toyota Tundra and Tundra Hybrid models and 2023–2025 Sequoia Hybrid SUVs, with a free software update to be provided at dealerships.
Hyundai’s recall emphasizes the growing scrutiny automakers face regarding vehicle safety and quality control, particularly in the American market. The company has advised owners of the affected Santa Fe SUVs to park their vehicles away from structures or flammable materials until repairs are completed as an extra precaution.
With this recall, Hyundai joins other global manufacturers stepping up efforts to prevent potential fire and safety risks, reinforcing the importance of swift action in maintaining consumer trust and safety standards across the automotive sector.