Hyundai Recalls 94,622 Genesis Sedans Over Seat Motors That Can Overheat and Catch Fire

Hyundai has told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that it will recall 94,622 vehicles in the United States over a fire risk linked to the front power seats. The affected models are certain 2015-2016 Hyundai Genesis sedans and 2017-2020 Genesis G80 sedans. The front power seat motors may overheat when the power seat control switch sticks, and prolonged motor operation can lead to a fire while the car is parked or driving.

Until a repair is performed, owners are advised to park their vehicles outdoors and away from other vehicles or structures. A remedy is currently under development, with owner notification letters expected to be mailed in early December. Dealers are not allowed to deliver new vehicles for sale or lease until all open recalls on them have been performed, and they must complete open recalls on used, demo and rental vehicles before placing them into customer use.

Seat-motor fires are a reminder that even low-voltage cabin components can become ignition sources when a switch fails in the on position. Owners who notice a seat motor running longer than normal, or a seat that keeps moving after the switch is released, should stop using the control and contact a dealer promptly.