Hyundai Issues Recall for Over 54,000 Elantra Hybrids Due to Fire Hazard

Hyundai has initiated a recall for over 54,000 Elantra Hybrid vehicles in the U.S. due to a fire risk linked to overheating in the Hybrid Power Control Unit. This issue can lead to sudden power loss and potential engine bay fires. Fortunately, the fix involves a software update that can be completed at no cost to owners. This recall follows a previous one related to motor control software and highlights increasing regulatory scrutiny on hybrid technology. In related news, Tesla has also announced recalls for its Cybertruck and Model series due to separate safety concerns. Stay informed about these developments to ensure your vehicle's safety.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 21, 2026, 00:24 IST

Hyundai's Recall Announcement

Hyundai has announced a recall affecting more than 54,000 vehicles in the U.S. due to a potential fire risk linked to overheating in a crucial electrical component. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) revealed this recall on Wednesday, which specifically targets 54,337 units of the Elantra Hybrid sedan from the 2024 to 2026 model years.

Identifying the Issue

The problem originates from the Hybrid Power Control Unit, responsible for regulating electricity flow within the hybrid system. Under extreme electrical demands, such as prolonged highway driving in high summer temperatures or intense stop-and-go traffic, this unit can overheat quickly. This overheating may lead to sudden power loss or prevent the vehicle from restarting after being turned off. In severe cases, it can cause thermal damage to the control unit and its components, significantly increasing the risk of a fire in the engine compartment.

Resolution Process

Fortunately, vehicle owners will not have to leave their cars at a dealership for extended periods. Hyundai dealers will implement a software update to the Hybrid Power Control Unit, enhancing its thermal management and improving diagnostic monitoring to prevent temperatures from reaching hazardous levels. This fix will be provided at no cost to the owners. Notification letters will be sent to affected owners in the upcoming weeks. Meanwhile, Elantra Hybrid owners can verify if their vehicle is part of the recall by entering their 17-character VIN on the NHTSA Recalls Portal at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Previous Recalls

This is not the first instance of the Elantra Hybrid facing a recall due to electronic issues. In August 2023, Hyundai initiated a separate recall concerning motor control software in earlier Elantra Hybrid models. This latest recall highlights the increasing regulatory scrutiny on high-voltage power electronics as manufacturers advance their hybrid technologies in the U.S. market.

Tesla's Recent Recalls

The Hyundai recall follows closely on the heels of Tesla's announcement regarding its own recalls. Tesla recalled 173 Cybertrucks after discovering cracks in the wheel rotor that could potentially separate the wheel stud from the wheel hub, posing a crash risk. This recall affects 2024 to 2026 Cybertrucks equipped with 18-inch steel wheels, with Tesla offering free replacements for the front and rear brake rotors, hubs, and lug nuts. Additionally, Tesla is recalling over 200,000 Model Y, Model S, Model X, and Model 3 vehicles due to a software issue that causes the rearview camera to briefly go dark, impairing driver visibility and increasing the likelihood of accidents. Tesla has stated that it is unaware of any accidents, injuries, or fatalities related to either recall.