Hyundai is recalling the Santa Fe and Santa Fe Hybrid vehicles due to a rearview camera defect that can reduce rear visibility.
- Vehicles Affected: 2024 – 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe & Santa Fe Hybrid
- Issue: Rearview camera failure due to wiring damage
- Risk: Reduced rear visibility while reversing
- Fix: Camera replacement and wire harness adjustment
- Recall Notices: Expected January 19, 2026
Hyundai is recalling 143,472 Santa Fe vehicles after discovering that the rearview camera system may not function as intended.
The recall includes both the Hyundai Santa Fe and Santa Fe Hybrid models. Hyundai estimates that approximately 1 percent of the recalled vehicles, or about 1,435 units, actually contain the defect.
A malfunctioning rearview camera can significantly limit a driver’s ability to see behind the vehicle while reversing.
Because rear visibility systems are required under federal safety standards, Hyundai initiated this recall to ensure compliance and driver safety.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), rearview camera systems are critical safety features designed to reduce backover crashes and improve pedestrian safety, particularly in parking lots and residential areas.
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Cause of the Hyundai Santa Fe Rearview Camera Defect
Short answer: Improper installation of the rearview camera wire harness can damage internal wiring, causing the camera to malfunction or fail entirely.
Hyundai found that certain Santa Fe vehicles may have had their camera wiring harnesses installed under excess tension during assembly. Over time, this can crack solder joints or damage the wires, leading to camera malfunction.
When this occurs, the rearview camera may display a distorted image, fail intermittently, or stop working entirely. The issue causes affected vehicles to violate Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 111, which governs rear visibility.
Loss of rear visibility can make reversing more difficult, especially in crowded areas, parking lots, or driveways.
Warning Signs of the Hyundai Santa Fe Rearview Camera Defect
- Rearview camera image flickers or distorts
- Screen goes black when reversing
- Camera works intermittently
- No image appears on the display
- Warning message related to rear visibility
Hyundai’s Repair Plan for the Santa Fe Camera Recall
Answer Capsule: Hyundai will replace the rearview camera and reposition or replace the wiring harness to prevent future damage.
Technicians will install a new rearview camera and properly route or replace the wiring harness. The updated components are designed to withstand normal movement and tension.
Hyundai will begin mailing recall notices to affected owners by January 19, 2026. Once notified, owners can schedule an appointment with an authorized Hyundai dealership to complete the free recall repair. The fix will be provided regardless of warranty status.
What Should I Do If My Santa Fe Is Included in the Recall?
- Use caution when reversing: If your rearview camera is not functioning properly, rely on mirrors and direct visual checks when backing up.
- Wait for your recall notification letter: Hyundai expects owner notifications to be mailed by mid-January 2026.
- Schedule the recall repair: Contact an authorized Hyundai dealership once the remedy is available.
- Complete the repair: Bring your vehicle in for the free recall service.
- Monitor for recurring issues: If camera problems continue after the repair, keep records of all service visits.
- Consider your legal options: Vehicles that undergo repeated repairs or spend extended time in the shop may qualify for relief under state lemon laws.
FAQs for the Hyundai Santa Fe Camera Recall
1. Which Santa Fe models are affected by this recall?
The recall covers 2024–2025 Hyundai Santa Fe and 2024–2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid models. Affected Santa Fe vehicles were built between December 28, 2023, and January 24, 2025, while affected Santa Fe Hybrid vehicles were built between March 6, 2024, and January 29, 2025.
2. How many vehicles are affected?
A total of 143,472 vehicles are included in the recall. Hyundai estimates that about 1 percent, or approximately 1,435 vehicles, are likely to have the defect.
3. What are the symptoms of this defect?
Drivers may notice the rearview camera display flickering, showing distorted images, or going completely blank. Any of these signs indicate the wiring harness or camera may be damaged.
4. What if the camera problem returns after repair?
If your rearview camera continues to malfunction after recall repairs, return to your dealership and document each visit. If the issue persists, you may be entitled to lemon law remedies, such as a vehicle replacement or refund.
Lemon Law and Legal Relief Options
Lemon laws protect owners whose vehicles have ongoing safety or functionality defects that cannot be fixed after reasonable repair attempts.
If your Hyundai Santa Fe or Santa Fe Hybrid continues to experience rearview camera failures after repair, you may qualify for lemon law compensation or a replacement vehicle.
Lemon law eligibility depends on state law, the number of repair attempts, and the total time the vehicle has been out of service.
| Affected Model | Average Lemon Law Settlement |
| Hyundai Santa Fe | $71,920 |
| Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid | $73,937 |
*Please note, the figures presented in the chart are approximations based on past case results and should not be interpreted as a prediction or guarantee. Each case is unique and requires personalized legal guidance.
Repeat Santa Fe Rearview Camera Problems? Call the Experts!
Dealing with a vehicle that refuses to stay fixed is frustrating, but thankfully, you don’t have to deal with it alone. The Lemon Law Experts are here for you and can help you understand your rights under the lemon law.
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Citations
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Part 573 Safety Recall Report, U.S. Department of Transportation. https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2025/RCLRPT-25V808-2163.pdf. Accessed December 9, 2025.
