Hyundai is recalling the redesigned 2024 Santa Fe Hybrid crossover due to a wiring issue that could cause airbags to unintentionally deploy or fail to deploy when needed. The recall affects 9,575 Santa Fe Hybrids and 40,144 non-hybrid Santa Fe models. The main floor wiring harness in the affected vehicles may chafe against part of the second-row bench seat on the passenger side, leading to potential damage. Hyundai and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have identified inconsistent routing and improper securing of the harness as the root cause of the issue.
### Root Cause of the Recall
Damage to the wiring harness can result in the airbags deploying without cause or failing to deploy in an actual crash. An illuminated airbag warning light on the dashboard will indicate a problem. While Hyundai has identified eight incidents related to this issue, there have been no reported crashes, fires, or injuries resulting from it in the U.S.
### Vehicle Inspections and Repairs
Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, repair or replace the wiring harness free of charge. Hyundai plans to begin mailing notification letters to owners on Sept. 23, 2024. Owners can also contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460 and reference recall number 265 for more information.
### 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid
The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid, along with the non-hybrid models, received a new look designed for outdoor adventures with its redesign. The powertrain remains similar to the previous generation, potentially reaching close to 34 mpg combined, although EPA ratings have not yet been released for the new model. The return of the plug-in hybrid option from the previous generation has not been confirmed.
### Conclusion
In conclusion, Hyundai’s recall of the 2024 Santa Fe Hybrid and non-hybrid models due to a wiring issue highlights the importance of addressing potential safety concerns promptly. Owners of the affected vehicles should contact Hyundai for further instructions and to schedule inspections and repairs as needed. By taking action to resolve this issue, Hyundai aims to ensure the safety and well-being of its customers on the road.