In a significant safety move, Hyundai Motor has announced a recall affecting tens of thousands of its vehicles in the United States. The action comes after the discovery of a potential fire hazard linked to the vehicle's trailer lighting system.
What Prompted the Recall?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) made the announcement on Wednesday. The safety regulator stated that the recall covers 51,587 vehicles. The core issue is a short circuit that can occur in non-functioning trailer lights.
This dangerous short circuit is a direct result of an incorrect installation of the trailer wiring harness during the vehicle's production. If this electrical fault occurs, it significantly elevates the risk of a fire breaking out, even when the vehicle is parked and turned off.
Immediate Safety Instructions for Owners
Given the serious nature of the fire risk, Hyundai and the NHTSA have issued a crucial interim safety directive for owners of the affected vehicles. They have been advised to park their cars outside and away from any structures, such as garages or carports.
This precautionary measure is recommended until the necessary recall repair has been completed. Parking in an open area helps mitigate potential damage should a fire ignite.
The Official Repair Solution
To permanently resolve this safety defect, Hyundai has authorized its dealer network to carry out the fix. According to the NHTSA's report, Hyundai dealers will replace the faulty trailer wiring harness free of charge for all impacted customers.
Owners of the recalled vehicles should expect to receive official notification from Hyundai. They can then schedule an appointment with their local dealership for the repair service, which will be provided at no cost to them.
This recall underscores the importance of rigorous quality checks in automotive manufacturing and the critical role of safety regulators like the NHTSA in protecting consumers. Vehicle owners are urged to heed the parking advice and act promptly on the recall notice.
