For the automotive industry, 2024 was marked as a year full of vehicle recalls. More than 360 recalls were issued in the United States last year, impacting more than 27 million cars. Tesla recalls accounted for more than 5 million units, earning them the spot for the most car recalls in 2024. However, Chrysler/Stellantis, Ford, Kia, and even Honda vehicles weren’t far behind with recalls for transgressions, such as minor, incorrect information being printed on vehicle labels, or major, such as electrical malfunctions and fire risks.
While Hyundai had less than half the number of recalls as they did in 2024, the total number of vehicles impacted was up overall. In November, more than 226 Hyundai Elantras and Santa Fes were recalled for malfunctioning rearview cameras.
However, 2024 wrapped up with another Hyundai recall that could impact thousands of car owners, this one impacting two more popular Hyundai models: the Tucson and the Santa Cruz.
Hyundai Recall Details: 2025 Tucson & Santa Cruz
In November 2024, auto manufacturer Hyundai recalled their 2025 Tucson SUV and Santa Cruz pickup models due to a heightened rollaway risk. The automaker included more than 42,000 vehicles in this recall, of which more than 35,000 are the popular Hyundai Tucson models.
According to the safety recall report filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), these vehicles may have a wiring harness that needs to be rerouted inside the console. In the affected faulty vehicles, the wiring is dangerously close to the mechanical release of the shift lever lock. If these get too close, the transmission can shift out of the park position, even if the driver isn’t inside pressing the brake pedal. When this happens, the vehicle can roll away even when parked, potentially causing damage.
What Should Affected Hyundai Owners Do Next?
It is important to note that Hyundai is not issuing a stop-drive order at this time. You may continue to operate the vehicle as usual; however, it is recommended that you engage the parking brake when you park to reduce the risk of potential damage.
Hyundai is taking proactive steps to address the recall. They will be notifying car dealerships digitally and car owners via a letter delivered by certified mail beginning January 19, 2025. The notice will instruct drivers to bring their vehicle to the nearest Hyundai dealership to complete the car repair at no charge. The repair will reroute the console extension wiring assembly away from the auto lever shift lock button. If you have already had the repair completed, Hyundai will reimburse owners for the cost of repairs.
Any vehicle manufactured after October 25, 2024, has already had the repair completed, so there is no action necessary.
Understanding the Potential Safety Risks of the Transmission IssueHyundai was first made aware of a potential issue in October 2024 when a unit in a corporate fleet in the United States moved by itself. To date, Hyundai claims that there have been no reports of any injuries, crashes, fires, or deaths to drivers, passengers, or bystanders associated with the vehicles that have already been sold.
However, without immediate action, damage, injury, or loss of life may be possible. If a vehicle rolls away unexpectedly or while unattended, it could potentially roll over a pet, child or adult, damage the car, or damage property or another vehicle.
Preventative Maintenance for Transmission Health
As a vehicle owner, it is your responsibility to perform essential preventative car maintenance to keep it running at its best. In addition to routine vehicle maintenance, like oil changes and tire rotations, your transmission also requires maintenance.
One of the most important transmission maintenance tasks is to check the transmission fluid levels. Transmission fluid powers your car’s transmission while cooling and lubricating the systems. Without dirty or low transmission fluid, your vehicle could suffer catastrophic damage.
It is also recommended that you take your vehicle in for regular transmission servicing. A knowledgeable and trustworthy car mechanic or repair shop has the diagnostic tools and experience to identify potential transmission issues early. Early detection of transmission issues can make the difference between an expensive car repair bill and a minor one.
Endurance Auto Protection Plans for Transmission Repairs
Although this Hyundai recall covers the included repairs, it won’t cover anything else that may arise. Your transmission is one of the most critical vehicle components necessary to make your vehicle drive. Unfortunately, if you experience a transmission-related mechanical breakdown, transmission is one of the most expensive car repairs. This is where an extended car warranty can help.
Endurance Warranty plans provide a financial safety net against expensive vehicle repair bills. Your customizable vehicle service contract can cover as much, or as little, as you’d like, including costly repairs like the engine or the transmission. Endurance Warranty coverage provides car owners with peace of mind, knowing that in the event of a mechanical breakdown, they can get their car fixed and back on the road with little to no out-of-pocket expenses.
Hyundai Recall FAQs
What Hyundai models are being recalled?
In this particular recall, any 2025 Hyundai Tucson and Sante Fe manufactured before October 25, 2024, is being recalled. However, there were 25 Hyundai recalls in 2024, some of which are still open.
How do I know if my Hyundai engine has a recall?
The fastest and easiest way to research any recalls on your Hyundai is to visit the NHTSA website and then put in your vehicle identification number (VIN). Auto manufacturers also send out certified mail and make announcements. However, it is essential to do your due diligence by checking with your Hyundai dealer or the NHTSA.
What should I do if I experience rollaway symptoms before getting the recall repair?
If you’ve experienced a rollaway, it is vital to secure the vehicle and refrain from driving it until repairs have been made. Be sure to engage the parking brake, adding another layer of protection against accidental rolling or movement.
Next, contact Endurance Warranty or a Hyundai dealership directly to have your vehicle towed to a Hyundai dealership or another safe location for repairs. Every Endurance Warranty vehicle protection plan includes a suite of additional benefits, including trip interruption coverage, rental car reimbursement, and 24/7 lockout services and towing.
Can an extended warranty cover other transmission-related issues not included in the recall?
Yes, an extended car warranty may cover transmission-related issues, even if they are not included in the Hyundai recall. It is important to read the fine print of your vehicle service contract to understand the terms and conditions, including any limitations or exclusions of your plan.
Explore Endurance Warranty Transmission Protection Plans
The time to prepare for a major car repair is before it happens. Unfortunately, aside from vehicular recalls like the Hyundai Santa Cruz and Tucson recalls, mechanical breakdowns are a part of car ownership. Eventually, through normal wear and tear, parts will begin to falter and fail, ultimately requiring repair or replacement. Today, most Americans cannot cover the cost of paying unexpectedly expensive repair bills out of pocket without breaking the bank.
Endurance Warranty has a variety of customizable auto protection plans to fit more needs, budgets, and lifestyles. Contact an Endurance plan advisor at (800) 253-8203 to find coverage for your transmission and other mechanical components. You can also quickly request a FREE auto protection quote online. Shop our eStore to see your plan recommendations and pricing now.