Key takeaways:
- Hyundai is recalling 94,622 U.S. vehicles over potential fire risks from overheating seat motors.
- The recall affects select 2015-2016 Genesis and 2017-2020 Genesis G80 models.
- Owners should park affected vehicles outdoors, away from other vehicles and structures, until repairs are completed.
Hyundai Motor America is recalling 94,622 vehicles in the United States over a potential fire risk caused by overheating front power seat motors, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said Thursday.
The Hyundai vehicle recall affects certain 2015-2016 Hyundai Genesis and 2017-2020 Genesis G80 models. The motors may overheat because of a stuck power seat control switch, potentially causing a fire while a vehicle is parked or being driven.
Hyundai has advised owners to park affected vehicles outdoors and away from other vehicles and structures until repairs are completed, according to the U.S. auto safety regulator. The company is still developing a repair remedy, the agency said.
Stuck seat switches could cause fires
The safety issue centers on the front power seat motors. A stuck control switch can cause the motors to overheat, creating a risk of fire even when a vehicle is not in use.
The potential hazard applies to vehicles that fall within the specified model years. Owners of affected vehicles should follow Hyundai’s safety guidance while awaiting a permanent fix.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which oversees vehicle safety recalls in the United States, has not yet announced a completed repair solution for the affected models.
Owners urged to park vehicles outdoors
Hyundai has recommended that owners park their vehicles outdoors and maintain distance from other vehicles and structures until the repair is performed.
The precaution is intended to reduce the risk of a fire spreading if overheating occurs. Owners should follow any additional instructions issued by Hyundai or the safety regulator as the Hyundai vehicle recall progresses.
The agency’s announcement did not provide details about reported fires, injuries or property damage associated with the issue. It also did not specify when the repair remedy would become available.
Repair plan remains under development
The Hyundai vehicle recall covers 94,622 vehicles, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The affected vehicles include selected Hyundai Genesis and Genesis G80 models from the listed model years.
Hyundai is developing a remedy, but the agency has not provided a timeline for repairs. Until a fix is available, owners should follow the parking precautions outlined in the Hyundai vehicle recall notice.
Vehicle owners can monitor updates from Hyundai and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for information about eligibility, repair availability and next steps.
The Hyundai vehicle recall highlights the importance of addressing vehicle component defects that can create fire risks, including when vehicles are parked and unattended.
