Hyundai Recalls Over 600,000 SUVs in Canada and U.S.: Which Models Are Affected and What Drivers Should Do Next

Hyundai has announced a sweeping recall impacting more than 600,000 SUVs across the United States and Canada due to a critical safety risk stemming from a potential brake system failure. The automaker cited a serious defect involving the ABS (anti-lock braking system) module that poses a possible fire hazard, even when the vehicle is not in use. While no injuries or accidents have been reported so far, the danger is significant enough that Hyundai, alongside the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), has issued an urgent call for vehicle owners to take immediate action.

This large-scale recall includes popular Hyundai SUV models such as the Santa Fe, Santa Fe Sport, Santa Fe XL, and related model lines from various years. The common thread? A malfunctioning ABS system that could short circuit, igniting a fire in the engine compartment. The issue is compounded by the fact that the fire risk persists whether the vehicle is parked or driving — prompting potential concerns for residential fire hazards and parking restrictions in enclosed spaces.

Overview of the Hyundai SUV Recall

Which Hyundai SUVs are affected and how to check eligibility

The recall primarily involves the popular Hyundai Santa Fe, Santa Fe Sport, and Santa Fe XL spanning multiple model years. The most affected vehicles appear to be from the 2013 to 2018 production range, though some units built as late as 2022 are also listed. Hyundai identified a component in the ABS module that can deteriorate over time, impairing its integrity and increasing the risk of electrical malfunction while either active or dormant.

Owners who suspect their Hyundai SUV might be affected should check their vehicle identification number (VIN). Eligibility can be verified through communication from Hyundai or by contacting local Hyundai dealerships. All repairs and inspections related to this recall are provided free of charge, including towing if the vehicle is deemed unsafe to drive.

Understanding the ABS module fire hazard

At the center of the recall is the ABS module — a critical system designed to prevent wheel locking during emergency braking. In these affected vehicles, moisture intrusion or electrical overload can cause the module to short circuit. This leads to abnormal current flow and may result in thermal overheating and potentially a fire within the engine compartment.

According to authorities familiar with the investigation, the fires can erupt even when the vehicle is parked and turned off. This poses an elevated risk, particularly in residential neighborhoods, garages, or enclosed parking structures. Hyundai advises owners to park their vehicles outdoors and away from structures until repairs can be completed.

We are working closely with regulatory agencies to notify owners and make repairs available as quickly as possible.
— Hyundai Spokesperson (placeholder)

How Hyundai is addressing the problem

Hyundai’s proposed remedy consists of installing a new fuse kit designed to interrupt excess electrical current before it reaches the defect-prone ABS module. In some cases, if the module has already shown signs of failure or damage, it may be replaced entirely. The automaker has assured that dealerships have begun receiving the necessary repair components, and service appointments are being scheduled on a rolling basis based on inventory and demand.

Owners will be notified by mail with instructions on how to proceed, and in many cases, online appointment scheduling will be made available. Hyundai has confirmed that tow services will be offered for vehicles deemed unsafe to drive to the nearest authorized service center.

The repair involves minimal downtime once the necessary part is on hand. We’re prioritizing vehicles located in warmer or wetter climates where moisture intrusion risk may be higher.
— Lead Engineer, Hyundai North America (placeholder)

What Hyundai owners should do immediately

If you own a Hyundai Santa Fe series SUV within the impacted year range, it’s critical to take the following steps:

• Check your VIN on Hyundai’s recall lookup tool or contact your dealership directly
• If your SUV is *confirmed* under recall, park it outdoors and away from buildings
• Schedule a recall repair appointment as soon as parts are available
• Take note of any warning lights or smells that appear while driving or parked
• If unsafe to drive, request towing assistance through Hyundai

While the recall is concerning, the repair is straightforward and free of charge. Hyundai has committed to correcting this issue quickly and transparently, and proactive drivers play a critical role in minimizing risk.

Are there any winners or losers in this situation?

Industry perspective and implications

This is not Hyundai’s first encounter with ABS-related recalls, but the scale of this latest development sends a strong message about the evolving complexities of modern vehicle safety systems. Regulators are increasingly investigating similar issues across manufacturers, with electronic module failures becoming more common as cars rely on more sophisticated technology. While Hyundai’s response has been swift, the company will likely need to implement stronger quality control measures for component waterproofing and thermal resistance in upcoming models.

Furthermore, the recall raises concerns for used car buyers who may unknowingly purchase an affected vehicle without confirmation of recall repair. Dealerships are required to repair affected vehicles prior to resale, but private transactions carry more risk. Always check the VIN status before buying or selling a Hyundai SUV from the 2013–2022 model ranges.

With vehicle electronics becoming more complex, manufacturers and consumers alike must remain vigilant about electrical risk factors.
— Automotive Safety Analyst, Canada Vehicle Watch (placeholder)

Long-term outlook for Hyundai consumers

For consumers, this recall serves as a critical reminder to stay current on vehicle maintenance records and safety alerts. Hyundai has pledged transparency and comprehensive updates throughout the repair process. As part of its customer care, the automaker is also expected to offer extended warranty coverage on repaired systems and notify future owners of repaired vehicles through vehicle service records.

Still, any time a recall involves fire risk, it’s a sobering moment for both drivers and the manufacturer. Whether this incident becomes a long-term brand vulnerability or a successfully managed hiccup depends largely on customer outcomes over the coming months. Hyundai’s ability to resolve this proactively may well safeguard its credibility in the hypercompetitive SUV segment.

Short FAQs about the Hyundai SUV recall

Which Hyundai models are affected by the latest recall?

The main models include the Hyundai Santa Fe (2019–2022), Santa Fe Sport (2013–2018), and Santa Fe XL (2019). Additional models may also be involved depending on region and production line.

What is the main risk prompting the recall?

The ABS module can short-circuit and cause an engine compartment fire, even when the vehicle is turned off. Moisture and electrical overcurrent have both been cited as causes.

Is Hyundai offering the recall repair for free?

Yes. All inspection, fuse replacement, and module repair work associated with this recall is free of charge at authorized Hyundai dealerships.

Can I keep driving my vehicle if it’s affected?

Hyundai recommends parking affected vehicles outdoors and avoiding usage if possible until the repair is completed. Contact your dealership for guidance regarding individual risk.

How do I know if my SUV is affected?

You can check your vehicle’s VIN through Hyundai or by calling your nearest dealership. Mail notifications will also be sent to registered owners.

Will this impact the resale value of my Hyundai SUV?

Potentially. Vehicles with documented repairs under recall are safer to resell, but models sold “as-is” without recall completion may see lower valuations.