by Key Recall Highlights
Rearview Camera Problem
The new Hyundai Santa Fe may look ready for adventure with its massive design and off-road style, but over 143,000 of these SUVs are returning to dealers due to a common technical problem. Instead of overcoming rocks or river crossings, these SUVs are facing an issue with the rearview camera.
The problem concerns Santa Fe and Santa Fe Hybrid models from the 2024 and 2025 model years in the American market. According to documents submitted to safety authorities, the problem occurs at the moment when the driver engages reverse gear – the rearview camera suddenly stops working exactly when it is most needed.
The camera feed may completely cease, forcing drivers to look at an empty screen instead of seeing obstacles behind the vehicle.
Cause of the Malfunction
Hyundai discovered that the problem lies in an improperly assembled wiring harness, which is the fault of a supplier from Alabama, not the automaker itself. A poor assembly process can cause increased tension and wear on the cable, leading to poor contact with the camera, reports the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Industry Problems and Solutions
This is just the latest in a series of rearview issues that have swept the automotive industry. Nearly every brand has faced camera technical failures requiring recalls over the past few years, and since this equipment became mandatory in the US, the number of potentially faulty camera systems has increased significantly.
Hyundai is offering a solution to the problem by replacing the problematic wiring harness with a new, more flexible version that has already been installed on new Santa Fe models since September.
Recall Process
Owners will receive letters with instructions for free repairs at dealership centers. Until repairs are made, Santa Fe drivers are advised to rely on traditional methods – looking in mirrors and turning their heads. It’s a retro approach, but it works.
Additional Recall
Recently, Hyundai announced a second recall that concerns a significantly smaller number of vehicles. It covers 258 vehicles at risk of side airbag defects, affecting Santa Cruz, Santa Fe, Tucson models, and Genesis GV70 brand vehicles.
These mass recalls demonstrate how much modern vehicles depend on electronic systems, where even a minor technical error can affect the safety of thousands of drivers. Manufacturers continue to face challenges in ensuring the reliability of complex electronic components, especially when they are supplied by third-party companies. Hyundai’s rapid response to the problem and organization of free repairs indicate a responsible approach to customer safety, despite the root cause originating from a supplier.
