Hyundai Tucson & Santa Fe Recall: Critical Trailer Hitch Wiring Harness Safety Alert
Important Safety Notice: Hyundai has issued a recall affecting certain Tucson and Santa Fe SUVs due to a potentially dangerous trailer hitch wiring issue that could compromise vehicle safety.
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Affected Vehicles
This safety recall impacts approximately 6,000 vehicles across two popular Hyundai SUV models:
- 2016-2017 Hyundai Tucson manufactured between May 19, 2015 and November 14, 2016
- 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe manufactured between November 28, 2015 and November 14, 2016
Owners can verify whether their vehicle is included in this recall by using MotorVero's VIN lookup tool or visiting the official NHTSA recall website.
The Safety Risk Explained
The recall addresses a critical issue with accessory trailer hitch wiring harnesses that may contain a malfunctioning tow-hitch module. This defect can cause a trailer's brake lights to remain constantly illuminated while the vehicle is in operation.
Why This Matters
Proper trailer light function is essential for road safety. When brake lights fail to operate correctly:
- Following drivers may not recognize when the vehicle is slowing or stopping
- The constant illumination reduces the light's effectiveness as a warning signal
- This significantly increases the risk of rear-end collisions
- Nighttime driving becomes particularly hazardous
According to NHTSA data, lighting-related issues contribute to approximately 3% of all vehicle-related crashes annually in the United States, making this a serious safety concern that requires immediate attention.
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Hyundai's Recall Solution
Hyundai has authorized a complete repair protocol to address this safety issue at no cost to vehicle owners.
The Repair Process
Certified Hyundai technicians will:
- Inspect the trailer hitch wiring harness assembly
- Replace any affected components with updated parts
- Test all trailer lighting functions to ensure proper operation
- Document the repair in Hyundai's national database
The repair typically takes under two hours to complete at authorized Hyundai service centers. Most owners can schedule same-day service once parts are available.
What Owners Should Do Immediately
Step-by-Step Action Plan
If you own one of the affected vehicles:
- Stop towing immediately until repairs are completed
- Check your VIN using MotorVero's recall tool or NHTSA's database
- Contact Hyundai at 800-633-5151 to confirm your vehicle's status
- Schedule service at your nearest authorized Hyundai dealer
- Report any issues to NHTSA at 888-327-4236 or safercar.gov
Even if you haven't received an official notice yet, proactive action is recommended if your vehicle falls within the affected production dates.
Find Your Nearest Hyundai DealerUnderstanding Your Rights
As a vehicle owner affected by this recall, you have specific rights under U.S. safety regulations:
Key Consumer Protections
- Free repairs: All recall-related fixes must be performed at no charge
- Rental coverage: Some dealers may provide loaner vehicles if repairs take extended time
- Reimbursement options: If you previously paid for this repair, you may qualify for refund
- Safety priority: Dealers must prioritize recall repairs over regular maintenance
Hyundai has committed to lifetime repairs for this specific recall issue, meaning even if your vehicle is out of warranty, the fix will still be covered.
Preventative Measures for All SUV Owners
While this recall specifically affects certain Hyundai models, all vehicle owners with trailer hitches should consider these safety tips:
Trailer Safety Checklist
- Regularly test all trailer lights before each use
- Inspect wiring harnesses for wear or damage monthly
- Ensure proper grounding of all electrical connections
- Consider professional installation for aftermarket towing equipment
- Monitor for any unusual lighting behavior while driving
According to trailer safety experts, 90% of trailer lighting issues stem from wiring problems rather than bulb failures, making regular electrical inspections crucial.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How will I know if my vehicle is affected?
Hyundai will send official recall notices by mail to registered owners. However, you can proactively check using our recall lookup tool or by contacting a Hyundai dealer with your VIN.
Is it safe to drive my vehicle before the repair?
While the vehicle itself remains safe to drive, you should not tow any trailers until the repair is completed. The issue only affects trailer light functionality.
What if I already had this repaired at my own expense?
Hyundai may reimburse you for qualifying repairs. Contact their customer service at 800-633-5151 with your repair receipts for potential reimbursement.
How long will the repair take?
Most repairs are completed within 1-2 hours, though you should confirm timing when scheduling with your dealer.
Additional Resources
For more information about this recall or other vehicle safety concerns:
Why This Recall Matters
This recall highlights several important aspects of vehicle safety that all owners should understand:
Key Takeaways
- Accessory equipment can impact vehicle safety just as much as core components
- Regular inspection of all vehicle systems is essential
- Prompt response to recall notices helps protect you and other road users
- Automakers continually monitor vehicle performance for potential issues
By addressing this trailer hitch wiring issue proactively, Hyundai demonstrates its commitment to vehicle safety and customer protection.
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Ready to Schedule Your Recall Repair?
Use our dealer locator to find the most convenient Hyundai service center and schedule your recall repair today.
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