Hyundai has recalled nearly 600,000 vehicles in the United States due to defects in the seatbelts and charging ports. The vehicles affected are the Hyundai Palisade SUV and IONIQ 6 electric sedans. The faulty seat belt buckles could detach while driving, posing a deadly risk.
The recalls were announced on September 12, 2025, in a notice to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Why the Hyundai Palisade Recall Was Issued
A total of 568,580 Hyundai Palisade SUVs produced between April 10, 2019, and June 16, 2025 (model years 2020–2025) are affected. The NHTSA says that the seat belt assemblies in the driver, passenger, and second-row outboard seats may fail to latch safely.
The buckle assemblies were manufactured out of specifications of Hyundai’s supplier, ZF Lifetec. This means that they did not meet the technical design standards of Hyundai. This could be the reason why the latch mechanism jams, especially in colder temperatures.
Hyundai advises owners of the affected cars to look out for:
- A lighter-than-normal click when buckling the seat belts.
- Recessed push button on the buckles.
- Unexpected release of the seat belt after buckling.
So far, Hyundai has received 546 reports of faulty buckles. However, no crashes or injuries related to the defect have been reported. However, the risk of faulty seat belts, especially during a collision, makes this recall urgent.
While Hyundai is yet to start doing repairs, NHTSA advises Palisade owners to always fasten belts with a firm, direct insertion tug on the strap to ensure that the buckle is intact.
Hyundai dealers will inspect and replace defective buckles on all affected vehicles for free. The internal recall number for this defect is 283.
Hyundai IONIQ 6 EVs Recalled for Charging Port Door Hazard
Hyundai has also announced a recall for 31,042 Hyundai IONIQ 6 EVs built between December 14, 2022, and December 26, 2024 (model years 2023–2025).
The charging port door of these vehicles could open up, especially when driving at high speeds. In some cases, it may even detach, creating a road hazard for other vehicles.
Although this defect does not affect the charging ability of the IONIQ 6, the possibility of it coming loose at highway speeds could pose a serious danger to other motorists.
So far, Hyundai has received 6 reports of defecting charging port doors. Luckily, no accidents or injuries related to the issue have been reported.
Affected models will be inspected and repaired free of charge. The recall is listed under intern number 282.
What Hyundai Owners Should Do Now
Although Hyundai estimates that only about 1% of the recalled vehicles have the mentioned defects, the risks involved are serious enough to warrant immediate action.
Hyundai announced that notification letters will be sent on November 10,2025. Owners are advised to confirm if their vehicle is affected by contacting Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460 or calling the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.
They can also use their VINs to check on the government’s website at NHTSA.gov.
Before the repairs are done, Palisade owners are advised to always confirm that their seat belts are intact after buckling up. IONIQ 6 drivers are advised to ensure that their charging port doors are secure.
The Safety Risk Behind Hyundai’s Latest Recall
The recall involving defective seat belts is important because safety belts are the most fundamental safety feature in any vehicle. Defective seat belts create a potential risk, and the recall shows how seriously NHTSA and Hyundai are taking preventive measures even before any fatal accidents or serious injuries occur.
If you own a Hyundai Palisade SUV or an IONIQ 6 EV, take proactive measures now by checking your VIN and scheduling an inspection. One can do so even before receiving a recall letter.