Hyundai Santa Fe Recall Over Fire Risk: What Owners Need to Know
What’s the Problem
Hyundai has issued a major safety recall for over 135,000 model year 2024–2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SUVs due to a serious fire risk involving the starter motor assembly.
According to reports, the B+ terminal cover on the starter motor may have been improperly installed, which can leave it exposed. If the terminal makes contact with nearby metal components, such as the cooling fan housing, it can cause an electrical short circuit—increasing the risk of fire.
Hyundai discovered the problem during a crash test in late 2024 when smoke appeared from the engine bay after impact. Bench testing later confirmed that the exposed terminal could contact the cooling fan assembly, creating a dangerous short.
While Hyundai states that no fires or injuries have been reported in the field so far, the defect is serious enough to warrant immediate corrective action.
Allegations
Owners of affected Santa Fe SUVs have alleged potential electrical malfunctions, engine bay smoke, and burning odors consistent with short-circuit activity. These issues have raised concerns not just about crash-related fire risk, but also about safety during normal vehicle operation.
In some cases, consumers report dealer repair delays and uncertainty about whether replacement components fully address the hazard. Such delays and unresolved safety risks can trigger rights under California’s Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, also known as the California Lemon Law.
Recall / TSB
Hyundai’s recall, internally identified as Recall No. 285, covers certain 2024 and 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SUVs.
The recall repair involves inspecting the starter motor’s B+ terminal cover and reinstalling or replacing it if needed.
Recall notices are expected to be mailed to owners beginning December 1, 2025. Owners can contact Hyundai’s customer service at (855) 371-9460 for additional information.
Symptoms
Santa Fe owners should remain alert for any of the following symptoms:
Burning or smoky odors from the engine bay
Warning lights related to electrical or charging systems
Starter failure or abnormal cranking noises
Visible smoke or melted wiring near the starter motor
Delayed or inconsistent starting
If any of these symptoms appear, owners should stop driving immediately and contact their Hyundai dealer.
How to Proceed
Document Issues: Keep detailed records of all repair visits and communications with Hyundai or your dealer. Ensure each concern is described in your repair order at drop-off.
Reasonable Number of Repair Attempts: If the same electrical or fire-related issue persists after several repairs—or if your SUV is in the shop for 30 or more cumulative days—you may qualify for relief under the California Lemon Law.
Monitor Symptoms: Continue observing for any burning odors, smoke, or electrical issues even after the recall repair. Report any recurrence to Hyundai immediately.
Talk to a Lemon Law Attorney, like Valero Law: If repairs fail or you experience repeat electrical or safety issues, you may be entitled to compensation under California law. Remedies can include a repurchase, replacement vehicle, or a cash settlement.
Call Valero Law
If you own a 2024 or 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe and have experienced repeated electrical failures, smoke, or fire concerns—even after recall repairs—you may have a valid claim under the California Lemon Law.
Call Valero Law, APC at (424) 299-4447 or submit your free Lemon Law case evaluation today.
Our firm takes all cases on a contingency basis, meaning there is no cost to you unless we win.