Hyundai is recalling 94,622 Genesis sedans after a faulty power seat switch was linked to overheating and potential vehicle fires.
Hyundai is recalling 94,622 sedans in the United States over a defect that can cause front power seats to overheat and potentially start a fire, even when a vehicle is parked. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) disclosed the recall on October 15. The affected vehicles include certain 2015 and 2016 Hyundai Genesis sedans and 2017–2020 Genesis G80 models.
The problem involves a front power seat control switch that can become stuck or damaged, allowing the seat motor to keep running until it overheats. Hyundai has reported two fires associated with the defect in the United States, with no injuries or crashes reported as of October 1.
A permanent repair is still in development. Until it's available, NHTSA advises owners to park affected vehicles outdoors.
The recall covers two groups of vehicles:
2015–2016 Hyundai Genesis: 54,644 sedans.
2017–2020 Genesis G80: 39,978 sedans.
Together, the two groups account for 94,622 vehicles. Hyundai's recall number is 308, while Genesis identifies the campaign as 035G.
Owners can check their vehicle identification number (VIN) using NHTSA's recall lookup tool or contact the automakers directly. Hyundai's recall hotline is 855-371-9460, and Genesis customer service can be reached at 844-340-1200.
Hyundai estimates that approximately 1% of the recalled vehicles contain the defective component. However, owners will need to check their VIN to determine whether their specific vehicle is affected. The switches involved in the recall came from a single supplier, Nidec Mobility Korea Corporation.
The defect involves the switches that control the front seats' sliding and height-adjustment functions. If a switch becomes dislodged or physically damaged, it may allow the seat motor to operate continuously instead of shutting off as intended.
Prolonged operation can generate excessive heat, increasing the risk of fire. According to the recall documents, an external impact that misaligns the switch's internal components can also trigger the problem.
Hyundai first became aware of the issue in December 2021, following a Speak Up For Safety report involving a 2018 Genesis G80. A second case was reported in August 2022.
The automaker continued monitoring reports through mid-2024, when incidents remained limited. A surge in complaints involving thermal events in the Korean market in July 2026 prompted Hyundai to proceed with the recall.
Until a permanent repair is available, NHTSA recommends that owners park affected Genesis and G80 sedans outside, away from other vehicles and buildings. The precaution is intended to reduce the potential consequences if a seat overheats or a fire occurs.
Owners should pay attention to a burning smell near a front seat or a seat control switch that stops responding. These may indicate a problem with the seat mechanism.
Hyundai is still developing a repair, with notification letters scheduled to be mailed to owners on December 7. The fix will be provided at no cost once it becomes available.
In the meantime, owners should follow NHTSA's parking guidance and check their VIN to confirm whether their vehicle is included in the recall.