Automotive manufacturer Hyundai is recalling 94,622 vehicles in the United States due to a fire hazard linked to overheating motors in the powered front seats. According to a recall report filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the issue affects specific older sedan models from the Genesis luxury line.
The safety defect stems from the front seat slide and height adjustment control switch used on non-memory power seats. In the affected vehicles, these switches may become dislodged or damaged when subjected to external forces. When this happens, the switch can remain engaged, causing the seat adjustment motor to operate continuously even after the vehicle’s occupant has exited.
Regulators warn that the prolonged and continuous operation of the motor can result in severe overheating. This malfunction significantly increases the risk of a vehicle fire, which can occur while the car is being driven or while it is parked. Drivers and owners are advised to watch for warning signs such as a burning odor or seat control switches that have become inoperative.
The recall encompasses 39,978 units of the model year 2017 through 2020 Genesis G80, along with 54,644 units of the model year 2015 and 2016 Hyundai Genesis sedans. Hyundai estimates that roughly 1% of the total vehicle population included in the recall actually possesses the defect.
As of October 1, Hyundai reported that it is aware of two incidents involving a fire associated with this specific defect. However, the company confirmed that there have been no reported crashes or injuries related to the issue within the United States.
A permanent repair remedy for the defect is still actively in development. Until a fix becomes available and the repairs can be completed, the NHTSA recommends that owners of the affected vehicles park their cars outside and safely away from other vehicles, buildings, or structures.
Vehicle owners will receive notification via mail with further instructions. Once the remedy is finalized, owners can bring their affected vehicles to a certified Hyundai dealer or Genesis retailer, where the necessary repair service will be performed free of charge.
