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Hyundai Recalls 135,386 Santa Fe SUVs Over Crash-Triggered Fire Risk

Owner letters begin December 1 with free dealer inspections to reinstall a starter motor terminal cover.

Overview

  • NHTSA observed smoke during an NCAP frontal crash test, prompting Hyundai to investigate and confirm an electrical short risk.
  • The recall covers 2024–2025 Santa Fe SUVs with 2.5‑liter turbo engines built from December 28, 2023 to July 7, 2025, with about 1% estimated to be affected.
  • An improperly seated B+ terminal cover can contact the cooling fan after certain crashes, creating a short that could lead to fire; one thermal incident was reported in November 2024 with no U.S. injuries.
  • Hyundai issued the recall on October 2, 2025, and dealers will inspect and reinstall the cover at no cost, with the repair typically taking under 30 minutes.
  • Notifications are scheduled to mail December 1, and owners can check VINs on NHTSA.gov or call Hyundai at 855-371-9460 referencing recall 285.