Several cars from Hyundai’s 2011 and 2012 model years are being recalled due to a fire risk from the 12-volt accessory outlet, which used to be used for a cigarette lighter. In lieu of a spare tire, the vehicles were equipped with a “tire mobility kit” containing tire sealant and a portable air compressor. Unfortunately, due to improper installation, the 12-volt accessory outlet may overheat when the portable air compressor is plugged in. This can risk a vehicle fire.
The following cars are being recalled:
- 2012 Accent
- 2011 to 2012 Elantra
- 2011 to 2012 Sonata Hybrid
- 2012 Veloster
The problem, according to Consumer Reports, is that some accessory outlets may have been installed with too much torque. This apparently disabled a thermal fuse meant to protect against overheating.
Hyundai told Consumer Reports that it has not been notified of any fires or injuries due to this problem. Indeed, the issue has only appeared so far when people have put the air compressor to prolonged use. However, as an extra measure of caution, Hyundai recommends not using the air compressor or any aftermarket devices in the 12-volt accessory outlet until the outlet is fixed or reinstalled.
Hyundai is still working on a fix, but dealerships will provide it free of charge.
The recall officially goes into effect on August 28, and you should be contacted by Hyundai. However, you can also contact Hyundai customer service at 855-371-9460. Reference Hyundai recall campaign number 193.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall campaign number is 20V-393.
If you would like to know for sure whether your car is included in this recall, get your 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) and plug it into NHTSA’s recall website. You can obtain your VIN from your car title, most insurance cards, or several places on the vehicle. One easy place to find it is inside the driver’s door. Another is at the base of the windshield on the driver’s side.
We recommend checking your car for recalls on a regular basis.
