Hyundai Recalls 51,587 U.S. Vehicles Over Trailer Wiring Fire Risk

Hyundai Motor America recalled 51,587 vehicles in the United States after the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration concluded that an incorrectly installed trailer wiring harness can short circuit the trailer light circuit even when trailer lights are not in use, creating an increased risk of electrical fire. The recall was announced on December 24, 2025 and affects a discrete set of vehicles for which NHTSA provided the safety determination, though the agency has not released model specific information in the initial notice.

NHTSA instructed owners of affected vehicles to park them outside and away from structures until dealers perform the free repair. Hyundai dealers will replace the trailer wiring harness at no cost to owners. The recall notice did not specify whether dealers will provide loaner vehicles or alternate transportation while repairs are scheduled, nor did the initial announcement include model years or VIN ranges. NHTSA recall details and Hyundai owner notifications are expected to supply those specifics in the coming days.

The defect, as described in the agency’s finding, stems from an incorrect installation of an accessory trailer wiring harness. That incorrect installation can create a short circuit in the wiring for trailer lights even when the trailer lights are not functioning, a condition that raises the potential for an electrical fire. Because electrical fires can start without warning, the agency’s guidance to park outside and away from structures is intended to reduce the risk of property damage and injury while repairs are pending.

From a regulatory and market perspective this recall underscores persistent vulnerabilities tied to add on towing equipment and vehicle electrical systems. Some safety aggregators have placed this action within a broader pattern of Hyundai and Kia tow hitch and trailer harness recalls that together exceed 515,000 vehicles, though NHTSA has not administratively linked those campaigns to this particular 51,587 vehicle recall. The aggregation of such campaigns has amplified scrutiny of installation practices for aftermarket and factory accessory wiring, and may prompt closer enforcement of installation quality standards and supplier oversight.

For Hyundai Motor Company the immediate cost will be the expense of replacing wiring harnesses at dealer service centers nationwide. Beyond direct repair costs, recurring safety recalls carry reputational and legal risks that can affect brand trust and consumer perception in the competitive U.S. market. Regulators and fleet managers alike are watching whether this recall prompts changes in accessory installation procedures or supplier auditing that would reduce the risk of repeat events.

Owners who believe their vehicle may be affected should consult the NHTSA recall database or contact Hyundai Motor America for campaign identification, specific model and VIN information, and scheduling for the free repair. NHTSA’s safety advisory to park outside and away from structures remains the principal interim measure until dealers complete the replacements.