Hyundai recalls over 135,000 Santa Fe SUVs over electrical short risk that could cause fire; check affected models and what owners must do

Hyundai announced a major recall affecting more than 135,000 Santa Fe SUVs in the U.S. due to a possible electrical short circuit caused by an improperly installed engine cover that could lead to a fire. On October 2, the South Korean manufacturer decided to recall 135,386 Santa Fe vehicles produced between December 28, 2023 and July 7, 2025. The problem is with the B+ positive terminal cover on the starter assembly. If installed incorrectly, the cover may touch the cooling fan assembly and cause an electrical short, potentially resulting in an accident.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall report, Hyundai estimates that approximately 1 percent of affected vehicles may have had covers installed incorrectly. As of the date of the recall, Hyundai had received a report from November 2024 confirming signs of a thermal event, but no crashes, injuries, or deaths have been reported in the US due to this issue.

Why exactly the recall?

According to the recall report, affected units “may be mounted with a cover that is not fully seated” over a terminal on the starter motor, causing an issue where the terminal may contact the cooling fan assembly, causing a short circuit. The notice stated that “an electrical short circuit may increase the risk of electrical fire.”

What Hyundai owners need to do

Owners of the recalled Santa Fe models will receive an email notification with instructions to take their vehicles to a Hyundai dealer for inspection. If necessary, the terminal cover will be reinstalled at no charge to the owner. Hyundai will also cover any out-of-pocket costs associated with the reinstallation.