Hyundai is recalling nearly 50,000 Santa Fe crossovers due to airbag issues caused by wiring harness problems, which can lead to unintended airbag deployment or failure.

The recall affects 49,719 Santa Fe and Santa Fe Hybrid models built between December 2023 and July 2024. The Safety Recall Report indicates that the main floor wire harness can come into contact with the second-row folding seat hinge assembly, potentially causing damage. This damage can result in "inadvertent airbag deployment and/or an inability to deploy the airbags during a crash," increasing the risk of injury or death.

The issue is attributed to an inconsistent routing location for the wiring harness and improper securing of the harness. As part of the recall, dealership technicians will inspect and properly secure the wiring harness, replacing it if damaged, at no cost to the owner.

The repair process involves sliding the second-row seat forward and inspecting the wiring. If no damage is found, the harness will be secured using two zip ties. The recall follows an incident of inadvertent airbag deployment in South Korea, leading to an investigation. Hyundai identified eight related incidents in the U.S. market, all occurring this year, but reported no injuries or crashes.

Additionally, a stop sale order has been issued, instructing dealers not to deliver vehicles to customers until the recall is addressed. The inspection takes less than 30 minutes to complete, minimizing potential delays.

Source: Carscoops