Hyundai is recalling nearly 95,000 vehicles in the U.S. due to potentially overheating power seat motors, with the automaker advising owners to park affected vehicles outside until a fix is available.
The details: The recall, issued Oct. 8, covers 2017-2020 Genesis G80 and 2015-2016 Hyundai Genesis models (94,622 total), with two fires reported due to the faulty motors, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The front seat adjustment switch on non-memory power seats in the affected vehicles may become dislodged or damaged by external force.
A damaged switch may remain engaged, causing the seat adjustment motor to run continuously, even after an occupant exits the vehicle.
Prolonged motor operation could cause overheating, increasing the risk of fire while the vehicle is driven or parked, per NHTSA.
Owners are being instructed to park potentially affected vehicles outside, away from other cars and structures, until a remedy is developed.
Why it matters: With no remedy available yet, dealerships may face increased pressure to communicate safety precautions and keep customers informed about next steps as owners seek guidance on the fire risk and potential repairs.
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Between the lines: Reports of the potentially faulty power seat system date back to December 2021, when Hyundai first became aware of the issue through a Speak Up For Safety (“SUFS”) report but was unable to obtain the affected vehicle's parts for examination.
Hyundai recovered the seat assembly from a second affected vehicle in 2023 and continued monitoring the issue through 2025.
In July 2026, the automaker became aware of a power seat thermal issue in the Korean market, prompting a more comprehensive risk assessment in the U.S.
Dealer/Owner note: Dealers will be notified electronically about the recall, while owners will receive notifications by certified mail as Hyundai works to develop a remedy.
Bottom line: Hyundai’s latest recall highlights the potential safety risks associated with electrical components in aging vehicles, putting dealers on the front lines of customer communication and eventual repairs.
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