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 (non-hybrid only).
- Build window: December 28, 2023 through July 7, 2025 per various sources.
- The recall is identified by NHTSA Campaign Number 25V659 and Hyundai’s internal number 285.
- Canadian regulatory notice: For Canada the recall identifier is RA-78289 / 2025529.
What’s the remedy?
- Hyundai will notify dealers and owners starting December 1, 2025, according to the recall documents.
- Owners will be asked to bring the vehicle to an authorized Hyundai dealer, where the starter motor terminal cover will be inspected and, if found improperly seated, reinstalled properly free of charge.
- Dealers reportedly estimate the service time to be brief (as little as 30–45 minutes according to owner reports).
Why it matters
A short circuit in the engine compartment—especially after a crash—can increase the fire risk. While Hyundai states no such fire incidents have been confirmed in the field for this defect, the potential severity warrants prompt action.
Moreover, from a consumer perspective: if you own or plan to purchase a 2024 or 2025 Santa Fe (with the 2.5L turbo ICE), this recall is relevant and you should check your vehicle’s VIN for applicability.
What owners should do
- Check your VIN: Navigate to the NHTSA recall lookup site (or Hyundai’s recall page) and enter your VIN to verify if your vehicle is part of the recall.
- Schedule the service: If your vehicle is affected, contact your local Hyundai dealer and ask for recall campaign #285 (or NHTSA #25V659) for the starter-motor terminal cover.
- Confirm the remedy: When you take the vehicle in, ask the service advisor to confirm the inspection of the B+ terminal cover and reinstallation if needed.
- Retain documentation: Retain the service invoice showing the recall campaign, date, and description of the work done. This is useful for future resale or in case of warranty/recall verification issues.
- Don’t delay: Although Hyundai states no field fires have been reported, waiting indefinitely can risk missing out on the free remedy, and your vehicle may be less safe in a crash scenario.
Additional context
- It’s worth noting that this is one of several recent recalls for the Santa Fe. Earlier in 2024, for example, there was a recall of over 34,000 units (2024 model year) for a sunshade-switch knob issue.
- The fact that a crash-test triggered the issue highlights how safety regulation and testing can catch manufacturing issues before they cause broad field incidents—but it also underscores the importance of addressing trailers, wiring, etc., especially in high-stress components like the starter system.
- For prospective buyers of a 2024 or 2025 Santa Fe (non-hybrid), it's wise to verify that any open recalls have been remedied, and ask the dealer for documentation as part of your purchase due diligence.
Final take-away
If you own a 2024 or 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe (non-hybrid, 2.5L turbocharged engine), this recall matters. The defect may seem subtle—just an improperly seated cover—but its potential consequence (an electrical short leading to fire) is serious enough to warrant immediate attention. The good news: Hyundai is offering a free fix through authorized dealers. Your best step right now is to check your VIN, schedule the remedy if needed, and drive with the peace of mind that the issue has been addressed.
Sources
Fitzgerald, J. (2025, Oct 8). Hyundai Recalls 135K Santa Fe SUVs Due to an Increased Fire Risk. Car & Driver. Retrieved from https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a68901662/2025-2024-hyundai-santa-fe-fire-risk-recall/Car and Driver
Additional sources: Consumer Reports, Kelley Blue Book, Center for Auto Safety.