Posted on 11/25/2025
In a striking reminder that even well-established automakers can encounter serious and unusual safety defects, Hyundai has announced a recall of 85,043 Sonata sedans in the U.S. because the gas tank “may melt.” What’s happening? The recall covers Sonata models from 2020 through 2023 equipped with the non-hybrid 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Hybrid powertrains are not included. According to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the root cause is a defect in the purge-control check valve. That valve defect can allow compressed air to go back into the fuel tank (rather than being safely routed), leading to increased tank pressure. The excess pressure can deform the tank, potentially expanding it until it makes contact with hot exhaust components — which in turn can lead to melting or fuel leakage, and thus elevated fire risk. Indicators and current impact ... read more
Posted on 10/28/2025

What’s the issue? Automaker Hyundai has issued a recall affecting approximately 135,386 non-hybrid Santa Fe SUVs for model years 2024 and 2025 in the U.S. The defect centers around the starter-motor assembly in vehicles equipped with the 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (i.e., the non-hybrid power-train). Specifically: The “B+” (battery positive) terminal cover on the starter motor may not have been fully seated during manufacturing. In certain crash scenarios—when the engine compartment is deformed—the exposed terminal could contact the cooling fan assembly. That contact can cause an electrical short, which in turn raises the risk of a fire. Hyundai reports that the issue was discovered during a crash-test (an NCAP front barrier test) and that they are not aware of any field-accident injuries or fires to date. What models and build dates are affected? Model years: 2024 and 2025 Santa Fe ... read more