Hyundai issues recall over faulty trunk emergency release

Fountain Valley, CA – April 17, 2022 – Hyundai (OTCMKTS:HYMTF) is issuing a recall for 63,461 vehicles for a defect in the trunk lid emergency release, which could increase the risk of injury to occupants.  

The recall follows on the heels of 169 reports alleging the defect and covers the following models:

  • 2019 Genesis G70 
  • 2020 Hyundai Sonata
  • 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

Recall summary

The trunk acts as the main storage compartment on passenger cars. It is covered by a lid, which is connected to the rest of the vehicle’s body by means of a latch. The Hyundai trunk latch uses a metal lever called a pawl to prevent unnecessary movement of the trunk lid.  

In the recalled vehicles, continuous exposure to high temperatures can cause the trunk latch pawl to shrink, making it more difficult for users to open the trunk lid.

Recall risks


Forcibly opening the trunk lid could lead to an injury to the user, as well as damage to the pawl. If small children climb in the trunk and close the lid, they might not be able to get out, exposing them to the risk of injury from lack of oxygen and high temperature.    

Warning signs

The defective trunk lid might require an increased effort on the part of the user to open from the locked position.  

Other Hyundai recalls 

Hyundai previously issued a recall in August 2021 for 348,158 vehicles including the 2017-2018 Sonata, 2016-2018 Sonata Hybrid, and 2018-2020 Accent over a similar issue. 

Hyundai’s sister company Kia also recalled 253,074 vehicles for the same defect the following month, covering the 2016-2018 Kia Forte and the 2018-2019 Kia Rio.

There was a Hyundai Sonata recall in October 2021 due to faulty turn signals, as reported.

The repair

Dealers will inspect the trunk latch on the affected vehicles and replace it, if necessary. All repairs will be done free of charge.

Hyundai will also reimburse owners for expenses incurred on repairs involving the defective component before the recall was issued.   

Affected owners will be notified by May 20, 2022.  

Is your vehicle part of this recall?

More than 63,000 vehicles are included in this Hyundai recall. To do a Hyundai recall check,  use MotorSafety’s free vehicle lookup tool.  

Joseph EstabilloHyundai issues recall over faulty trunk emergency release

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