Hyundai recalls over 94,000 Genesis vehicles due to seat fire risk

Hyundai Motor America is recalling 94,622 Genesis and Genesis G80 sedans in the United States due to a defect in the power seat switches that could lead to a fire. The recall affects 2015 to 2016 Hyundai Genesis models and 2017 to 2020 Genesis G80 models manufactured in South Korea.

The issue stems from a faulty control switch for the power slider and seat height adjustment, manufactured by Nidec Mobility Korea Corporation. If the switch is subjected to sufficient external force, it may become dislodged or damaged, causing it to jam in the engaged position. Because the motor continues to run even when the vehicle is turned off, the unit can overheat and ignite, posing a fire risk whether the car is being driven or is parked.

Hyundai estimates that approximately 1% of the affected vehicles possess the defect. The company has identified two alleged fire incidents in the United States and has monitored similar thermal events in the South Korean market. As a precaution, Hyundai recommends that owners park affected vehicles outdoors and away from other structures or vehicles.