Hybrid Automobiles – California Lemon Law blog

If you own a model year 2024 or 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe or Santa Fe Hybrid, you need to be aware of a significant safety recall affecting your vehicle’s backup camera system.

Hyundai Motor America has determined that a defect exists in certain vehicles where the rear view camera image may fail to display when the vehicle is placed in reverse. This issue has triggered a noncompliance recall because the affected vehicles fail to meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111 regarding “Rear Visibility.”

Here is everything owners need to know about why the cameras are failing, the safety risks involved, and how Hyundai plans to fix the problem.

What is Causing the Santa Fe Camera Failure?

It is frustrating when a new car feature stops working. In this case, the problem isn’t necessarily a defective camera lens, but rather how the camera system was installed at the factory.

According to investigations by Hyundai’s Safety Test and Investigation Laboratory (STIL), the root cause stems from improper installation of the rear view camera wiring harness.

During the manufacturing process, variations in how the “end-of-line” wire harnesses were packaged allowed for inconsistencies in cable routing. In some vehicles, the camera wiring harnesses were installed with a “twist.” This twisting creates increased tension on the wires.

Over time, this tension can cause physical damage to the wiring, including solder cracks near terminal connections and damage to the wire’s shield line. Once these wires are compromised, the connection becomes unstable, leading to a flickering image or a completely blank screen on your dashboard display.

Why This Is a Safety Issue

A functional rear view camera is vital for safe reversing. It helps drivers spot pedestrians, obstacles, and other vehicles in their blind spots.

When the camera fails to display an image, the driver loses this critical view. This noncompliance with FMVSS No. 111 increases the risk of a crash or backup collision.

The Investigation Timeline

Hyundai began looking into this issue between March and June 2025 after routine monitoring of warranty claims showed a spike in inoperative cameras. They analyzed 21 different camera assemblies, discovering the solder cracks and wiring damage. Following extensive review with the supplier and Hyundai’s North America Safety Decision Authority in November 2025, the decision was made to issue a recall.

The Fix: What Hyundai Will Do

Replace the rear view camera assembly entirely.
Reposition the wiring harness correctly to ensure there is no tension causing damage to the new unit.

Important Dates and Next Steps for Owners

If you own a 2024-2025 Santa Fe or Santa Fe Hybrid, keep an eye on your mail.

Owner Notification: Hyundai expects to mail notification letters to affected owners beginning January 19, 2026.

If your camera is currently not working, you do not need to wait for the letter to contact your dealer.

Essential Recall Reference Numbers

When speaking with your dealer or searching the NHTSA database, use these reference numbers to identify this specific issue:

Hyundai Recall Number: 288
NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V-808

If you own a 2022 to 2025 Toyota Tundra — including the hybrid models — there’s a recall you should know about. It involves a defect in the reverse light system that could leave you backing up in the dark, quite literally.

This issue affects around 443,000 vehicles, and while it might seem minor at first glance, it raises both safety and legal concerns for California drivers.

What’s the problem?

Toyota found that moisture can get into the reverse light assemblies, which can cause the lights to fail unexpectedly. That’s bad news if you rely on your lights to safely navigate out of a driveway, a parking spot, or a tight alley at night.

Even worse, Toyota says the problem may also point to corrosion in the wiring, which could lead to other electrical issues down the road.

What’s being done?

Repairs are expected to begin in mid-July 2025, and Toyota plans to replace the reverse lamp assemblies and check for corroded wiring. Until then, owners are left waiting — and possibly driving a truck that isn’t fully safe.

Lemon Law and why it matters

In California, the Lemon Law protects you when your vehicle has a defect that:

Affects safety or drivability
Repeatedly hasn’t been fixed
Or causes your vehicle to be out of service for an extended period

If your Tundra has already had issues with the reverse lights — especially if you’ve brought it in more than once — you might have a strong case. The same is true if your truck ends up sitting in the dealership for weeks waiting for parts this summer.

What to do:

Make sure you have a copy of any previous service records involving the lighting system.
Once repairs are available, get them done — and ask for detailed paperwork showing exactly what was replaced.
If your vehicle has been unreliable or unsafe due to this issue (or others), it’s worth talking to someone about your Lemon Law rights.

You shouldn’t have to wait months to feel safe in your truck. And you definitely shouldn’t have to accept defective parts in a vehicle you paid good money for.

If you’re experiencing problems with your Toyota Tundra or have questions about your rights under the California Lemon Law, Call Now for a FREE Case Review – 888-395-3666 or fill in the contact form at the top of the page. Our experienced team is here to help you navigate the process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait – take action today to protect your rights as a California consumer!

The Hyundai Santa Fe is a popular choice for families and adventurers alike, known for its spacious design, modern features, and reasonable price point. However, recent models (2021-2024) have experienced a series of issues that have frustrated owners and raised safety concerns. These common problems affect Santa Fe vehicles with GDI engines.

Common Issues Affecting the 2021-2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

Fuel Injector Problems Leading to Stalling
A major concern for many Santa Fe owners is the vehicle’s fuel injector system. Faulty fuel injectors can cause the engine to stall unexpectedly, especially in models with GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engines. These issues have led to numerous complaints of the vehicle stalling while driving, creating hazardous situations on busy roads.
Loss of Power
Some owners report a sudden loss of power while driving, particularly when accelerating or maintaining speed on the highway. This loss of power can be alarming and dangerous, especially in situations where acceleration is necessary, such as merging or overtaking. Many drivers have reported that their Santa Fe either stalls entirely or hesitates significantly before regaining power, often triggering check engine or warning lights.
Persistent Check Engine Light
For Santa Fe models across 2021-2024, the check engine light has become a frequent visitor. Many owners report that the light comes on without clear resolution, even after multiple trips to the dealership. While the check engine light could signify any number of issues, the combination of repeated lights and related powertrain issues has led to frustration and concerns about reliability.

Complaints and Recalls for Each Model Year

2021 Hyundai Santa Fe

Owners of the 2021 model have raised concerns about fuel system problems, including fuel leaks at the pipe connection and improperly tightened fuel pipes. Powertrain complaints are also prevalent, with owners describing issues such as failure to accelerate and hesitation while driving. Recalls include:

Tow Hitch Harness Fire Hazard: Due to water accumulation, an electrical short could lead to a fire.
Loss of Drive Power: A transmission oil pump malfunction can cause total power loss.
Inadequate Windshield Bonding: Improper bonding during manufacturing may cause the windshield to detach in a crash.

2022 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2022 Santa Fe has seen similar powertrain issues, with some owners reporting a sudden inability to accelerate and warning lights like “Check Hybrid System.” The “phantom braking” issue has also emerged, where the emergency braking system activates without reason, nearly causing accidents. Recalls for the 2022 model include:

Tow Hitch Harness Fire Hazard
Loss of Drive Power
Turbocharger Oil Supply Pipe Leak: A cracked oil supply pipe could lead to leaks in the engine compartment.

2023 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV

In the 2023 plug-in hybrid models, forward collision avoidance issues have led to abrupt braking in traffic. Complaints also include poor acceleration response, with significant delay or lag from the time the accelerator is pressed to when the vehicle actually moves. Key recalls include:

Tow Hitch Harness Fire Hazard
Seat Belt Pretensioners May Explode: This recall affects the front seat belt pretensioners, which may explode upon deployment in a crash.

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

For the latest 2024 model, powertrain and electrical issues are significant. Some drivers report the vehicle losing motive power and experiencing flickering dashboard screens. Complaints include blacked-out instrument panels, “Transmission System Check” warnings, and persistent audio issues that continue even when the vehicle is off. Recalls for this model include:

Unintentional Airbag Deployment or Deactivation: Damaged wiring harnesses can lead to unintended airbag activation or deactivation.
Vehicle Roll Away from Software Error: A transmission software error may result in a roll-away when the vehicle is parked.
Obstructed Rear-View Camera Image: A trailer parking assist message may obstruct the rear-view camera, violating rear visibility standards.

Should You Be Concerned?

These issues have led to frustration for many Hyundai Santa Fe owners. If you’re experiencing any of the above problems, it’s essential to address them promptly for your safety. Keep an eye out for any recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) from Hyundai, and report any persistent issues to your dealer.

What’s Next?

The 2021-2024 Hyundai Santa Fe offers many attractive features but has also faced considerable challenges, particularly with its powertrain and fuel injector systems. If you’re dealing with ongoing issues, it’s crucial to know your rights, especially if repairs have been ineffective. Lemon laws may protect you if your vehicle has recurring problems that affect its performance or safety. Consider consulting with a lemon law professional to discuss options if repairs haven’t resolved the issue.

Owning a car should be about convenience and freedom – not worry over performance and safety. If you’re having trouble with your Santa Fe, stay informed, stay safe, and know your options.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into potential fire hazards associated with Enel X Way USA’s JuiceBox Level 2 residential EV chargers. Prompted by several complaints received by the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI), this evaluation aims to determine the extent and safety implications of electrical arcing and thermal incidents reported by users of these chargers. This probe focuses on the potential for fire risks arising from electrical malfunctions and the company’s recent operational shutdown announcement.

Summary of Complaints Filed with ODI

ODI has received six Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) concerning alleged incidents involving the JuiceBox Level 2 charger. These complaints raise serious concerns regarding potential fire hazards that may arise while charging electric vehicles at home. The following highlights from the complaints showcase the range of issues reported:

Total Home Loss Due to Explosion: One complaint involves a significant incident where a vehicle owner claims that charging their EV with a JuiceBox led to an explosion in their garage. This catastrophic event resulted in a fire that destroyed the home entirely.
Car Fire in Driveway: Another complaint describes an incident where a vehicle caught fire in the driveway while connected to a JuiceBox charger. The details of this incident underscore concerns about charger reliability and the potential for dangerous outcomes.
Electrical Malfunctions and Circuit Breaker Issues: Four additional complaints describe issues with electrical malfunctions that caused circuit breakers to trip and charging cycles to be disrupted. These electrical disruptions may indicate underlying issues with the chargers’ compatibility or durability under varying conditions.

Enel X Way’s Operational Shutdown and Potential Impact on User Safety

In an unexpected development, Enel X Way North America announced its intention to cease operations in the United States and Canada by October 11, 2024. A notification was sent to JuiceBox owners on October 2, 2024, which was also posted on the company’s website. This cessation of operations could potentially impact several aspects of the product’s performance and user experience:

Software and App Support: As Enel X Way discontinues its North American presence, questions remain about the continuity of the charging app and supporting software. Given that many smart chargers rely on connected software for updates and safety monitoring, the lack of support could leave users with outdated or unsupported technology.
Customer Support and Warranty Services: The cessation of operations may also impact the company’s ability to provide customer support, particularly regarding ongoing technical issues, troubleshooting, or warranty claims for JuiceBox chargers.

ODI Preliminary Evaluation and Safety Scope

In response to these serious complaints, ODI has opened a Preliminary Evaluation to examine the safety and reliability of JuiceBox Level 2 chargers. The purpose of this evaluation is to assess the scope, frequency, and potential hazards associated with these products. The investigation seeks to determine:

Risk of Fire and Explosion: By evaluating complaints of thermal events, such as the explosion in the garage and the driveway car fire, ODI aims to understand the risk factors and whether the JuiceBox charger’s design or operational faults are contributing factors.
Electrical Stability and Safety Consequences: ODI’s analysis will also delve into the frequency of electrical malfunctions and whether these events pose a risk of property damage, personal injury, or loss of life.
Impact of Software and Operational Changes: With the discontinuation of Enel X Way North America’s operations, ODI is concerned about the potential safety implications arising from the lack of app and software support. The investigation will evaluate if and how this operational change might exacerbate existing safety concerns or introduce new risks.

Affected Vehicles and Part Numbers

The ODI investigation includes a review of incidents involving various EV models that utilized the JuiceBox Level 2 charger. The vehicles associated with these complaints include:

Chevrolet Bolt EV (2018)
Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid (2018)
Hyundai Ioniq 5 (2022)
Hyundai Ioniq 6 (2023)

Additionally, the specific product part under scrutiny is the Enel X JuiceBox Level 2 Charger.

Steps for Consumers and Further Information

For EV owners who currently use the JuiceBox Level 2 charger, awareness of this investigation is crucial. Users are encouraged to follow any guidance issued by the NHTSA and consider consulting with licensed electricians to ensure proper installation and safe operation of their EV chargers.

The high voltage batteries in certain 2020 Ford Escape and 2021 Lincoln Corsair vehicles may have been manufactured with insufficient welds that could fail and cause a loss of drive power. These vehicles are equipped with 2.5L hybrid powertrains.

Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group first became aware of the problem in February 2022 when they were informed, by the supplier, that there was an issue with the weld penetration on the bus bars of certain high voltage batteries. A review of the manufacturers’ records showed that the suspect cause of the problem was damage to the laser cooling line caused by maintenance of the laser air knife. The damage to the laser cooling line resulted in an out-of-control weld process and insufficient welds. The suspect time period was between June 6, 2020, and June 12, 2020.

According to the safety report, insufficient weld penetration between the bus bar and cell terminal could result in a loss of electrical contact at the bus-bar weld joint inside the high voltage battery. Loss of electrical contact will result in a loss of motive power and an increased risk of an accident.

The vehicle warning display will illuminate a “Stop Safely Now” message, a wrench lamp, and an audible alert when the vehicle loses motive power.

Owners receiving notices will be asked to take their vehicle to their Ford or Lincoln dealer to have the High Voltage Battery replaced. The new High Voltage Battery LX68-10B759-R will have a bus bar that has proper weld penetration. The supplier repaired a damaged coolant line on June 27, 2020. High voltage batteries produced after June 27, 2020 were produced with sufficient bus bar weld penetration. Ford’s number for this recall is 22S33 and the NHTSA campaign number is 22V-331.

Honda will be notifying owners of certain Acura MDX and RLX vehicles about a safety problem affecting the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS). According to reports filed with the NHTSA, under certain driving conditions the CMBS may interpret roadside objects, such as metal fences and guardrails, as obstacles, and apply emergency braking. This unexpected braking could increase the risk of an accident. Continue reading →

As the use of electric and hybrid vehicles increase, and the fuel efficiency of newer vehicles becomes better, states are finding that the per-gallon fuel tax is no longer generating enough income to fund road maintenance and operations. In response to the declining revenue, late last year California legislature approved a Bill to examine the implementation of a road usage charge.

Continue reading →

Ford will be asking 56,479 Fusion owners to return to their nearest Ford or Lincoln dealer because their vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 114, “Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention.” According to reports filed with the NHTSA, these vehicles are equipped with a mechanical key and dual screen cluster that may allow drivers to remove the key even if the transmission is not in park. The vehicles could unexpectedly roll away possibly striking and/or injuring the driver, other vehicle occupants, or other bystanders. Continue reading →

Category Archives: Hybrid Automobiles

2024-2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Rear View Camera & Wire Harness Issue