Hyundai Motor America and Genesis have issued a major safety recall affecting several of their popular electric vehicle (EV) models, including the Hyundai IONIQ 5, IONIQ 6, Genesis GV60, GV70 “Electrified,” and G80 “Electrified.” The recall covers a total of 98,878 vehicles from the 2022-2024 model years. Owners of these recalled Hyundai and Genesis EVs should be on high alert and take prompt action to address this serious fire hazard.
What’s Causing the Fire Risk?
The root cause of this recall stems from an issue with the Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU), a critical component responsible for charging the 12-volt auxiliary battery and powering low-voltage vehicle accessories. Under certain electrical load conditions, the ICCU’s internal components can become damaged, leading to an open fuse. This, in turn, prevents the 12-volt auxiliary battery from charging properly.
While the vehicle’s main propulsion systems remain operational initially, if the issue persists and the vehicle continues to be driven, it could eventually lose all motive power, significantly increasing the risk of a crash.
What Are the Warning Signs to Watch For?
If you own one of the recalled Hyundai or Genesis models, it’s crucial to be aware of the following warning signs that may indicate an ICCU fault:
- Illumination of the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) in the instrument cluster
- Audible chime or warning sound
- Warning messages displayed in the instrument cluster
- Reduced motive power or inability to accelerate above a certain speed
Hyundai and Genesis advise that in the event of an ICCU fault, the vehicle retains motive power for approximately 22-45 minutes after the initial warning. However, the available range depends on the 12-volt vehicle accessory load.
Which Models Are Affected?
The recall affects the following Hyundai and Genesis models:
- 2022-2024 Hyundai IONIQ 5 (69,316 vehicles)
- 2023-2024 Hyundai IONIQ 6 (18,017 vehicles)
- 2023-2024 Genesis GV60 (6,709 vehicles)
- 2023-2024 Genesis GV70 “Electrified” (3,083 vehicles)
- 2023-2024 Genesis G80 “Electrified” (753 vehicles)
Can I Still Drive My Hyundai or Genesis EV?
Hyundai and Genesis strongly recommend that owners of affected vehicles park their cars outside and away from buildings or flammable materials until the recall repair is performed. Continuing to drive the vehicle with an ICCU fault and reduced motive power could increase the risk of a crash or fire.
What Will the Recall Repair Entail?
To address the issue, Hyundai and Genesis dealers will update the ICCU software on affected vehicles. Additionally, they will inspect the ICCU and associated fuse, replacing them if necessary. This remedy will be provided at no cost to owners, regardless of whether the affected vehicles are still covered under the manufacturer’s warranty.
Hyundai and Genesis will also provide reimbursement for any out-of-pocket expenses incurred by owners who have already obtained a remedy for the recall condition, in accordance with their reimbursement plan submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on February 22, 2024.
When Will the Recall Begin?
Hyundai and Genesis plan to notify dealers about the recall electronically on May 14, 2024. Owners of the affected vehicles will also be notified via certified mail on the same date, providing detailed instructions on how to proceed with the recall repair.
Stay Informed and Act Promptly
If you own a Hyundai or Genesis EV affected by this recall, it’s crucial to stay informed and take prompt action to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road. Monitor your vehicle for any warning signs and heed the instructions provided by the manufacturers.
Should you experience any issues or have concerns regarding this recall, you can contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-633-5151 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.
Remember, ignoring recall notices or delaying the necessary repairs can put you and your loved ones at risk. Act swiftly and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to address this potential fire hazard and ensure the continued safe operation of your Hyundai or Genesis EV.
Get Help from a Lemon Law Attorney
If you have been dealing with constant issues with your Hyundai or Genesis EV that seem unfixable, even after the recall repair, it might be time to reach out to a lemon law attorney. Some defects can potentially be life-threatening, and you should not have to put up with that.
If the manufacturer can’t get your car fixed after multiple attempts, you may qualify to get it bought back or swapped for a new one. This falls under the lemon laws for wherever you originally bought it. A lawyer can look at your case and help determine if you meet the state’s criteria. Plus, you could receive compensation for all the headaches this defect has caused you.
At Consumer Action Law Group, our experienced lemon law attorneys are here to help. During a free consultation, we’ll go over your situation closely to see if we can assist with your Hyundai or Genesis EV issue. Because our consultations are free, it will only take the effort of picking up the phone and calling us to get started on resolving your car’s problems.
Don’t hesitate to call us at (818) 254-8413 for your free consultation today, or fill out our contact form, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.