Hyundai and Kia have recalled more than 120,000 vehicles total from eight models because of a transmission problem that can leave drivers stranded.
The affected models include:
- 2021-2022 Hyundai Santa Fe
- 2021-2022 Hyundai Sonata
- 2021-2022 Hyundai Veloster N
- 2022 Hyundai Elantra N
- 2022 Hyundai Kona N
- 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz
- 2021-2023 Kia K5
- 2021-2022 Kia Sorento
The two companies share an owner (Hyundai Motor Group) and use many parts in common. This time, the problem is that the circuit boards used in the transmission oil pump may not have been soldered correctly. If a loose component detaches, the car enters a fail-safe mode that shuts the transmission down to avoid further damage.
When fail-safe mode starts, drivers hear a warning chime and see a message to “stop safely immediately.” They then, the companies tell government safety regulators, will have “approximately 20-30 seconds of unimpeded motive power” to pull over safely before their transmission disengages.
Dealers will inspect the cars and replace the entire transmission if necessary. Dealers will give every recalled car updated software with “proper fail-safe driving capability.”
Recall repairs are always free. Owners who have paid to have a related problem fixed before the recall campaign may be eligible for reimbursement.
Many cars are recalled, often more than once, during their lifespan. Automakers try to contact every owner but don’t always reach them all. Find out whether your car has any outstanding recalls with the easy VIN tool at our recall center.
