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Hyundai is recalling over 270,000 cars from the 2011 and 2012 model years to address a risk of fire from an overheated accessory power outlet, the 12-volt port once commonly used for a cigarette lighter.
The Accent, Elantra, Sonata Hybrid, and Veloster involved in this recall are equipped with a tire mobility kit, which combines tire sealant and a portable air compressor for repairing flat tires. These kits are handy for simple tire tread punctures, but they cannot repair large holes or damage to the sidewall. They are fitted to cars in lieu of a spare tire.
The problem can occur when the inflator is plugged into the 12-volt power outlet. Certain outlets may not have been installed correctly, disabling a thermal fuse designed to safeguard against overheating. Without this protection, there is a risk of vehicle fire.
Hyundai says it’s not aware of any injuries related to this problem.
Hyundai told CR that it only identified this issue related to prolonged use of air compressors, and it recommends that owners follow the instructions in their owner’s manual before using any aftermarket device in the 12-volt accessory port.
The automaker is still developing a fix for dealerships to implement. It expects the recall to begin Aug. 28, 2020.
For now, Hyundai says owners should not use the tire mobility kit air compressor until the recall remedy has been completed.
The problem: Some accessory power ports may have been installed using too much torque. As a result, the thermal fuse designed to prevent overheating might not provide the intended protection.
The fix: Hyundai is still developing a remedy. Dealerships will perform the work free of charge.
How to contact the manufacturer: Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 855-371-9460.
NHTSA campaign number: 20V-393. Hyundai’s number for this recall is 193.
Check to see whether your vehicle has an open recall: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website will tell you whether your vehicle has any open recalls that need to be addressed.
If you plug your car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) into NHTSA’s website and a recall doesn’t appear, it means your vehicle doesn’t currently have any open recalls. Because automakers issue recalls often, and for many older vehicles, we recommend checking back regularly to see whether your vehicle has had a recall issued.
Stay informed about recalls that might affect your vehicle using our Car Recall Tracker. Create a free account now to become a CR member.
The author experienced a flat tire in a 2011 Hyundai Elantra test car.
We respect your privacy. All email addresses you provide will be used just for sending this story.
A New England native, I have piloted a wide variety of vehicles, from a Segway to an aircraft carrier. All told, I have driven thousands of vehicles—many on race tracks across the globe. Today, that experience and passion are harnessed at the CR Auto Test Center to empower consumers. And if some tires must be sacrificed in the pursuit of truth, so be it. Follow me on Twitter (@JeffSBartlett).
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