Home / Disasters and Accidents / Hyundai Kona Recall: Seat Belt Defect Sparks Safety Alert
Hyundai Kona Recall: Seat Belt Defect Sparks Safety Alert
18 Jul
Summary
- Over 47,000 Hyundai Kona SUVs recalled for faulty rear center seat belt buckle.
- Defect may fail to properly restrain occupants, increasing injury risk in crashes.
- Owners advised not to use rear center seat until recall repair is completed.
Hyundai is initiating a recall for more than 47,000 Kona SUVs in the United States. The recall addresses a defect identified in the rear center seat belt buckle, which poses an increased risk of injury during a collision. This action encompasses certain 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric and 2026 Hyundai Kona vehicles.
The automaker has advised owners not to utilize the rear center seating position. The defect was reportedly discovered by Hyundai's supplier, Joyson Safety Systems, following testing that indicated a potential problem with the buckles. Excessive wear from stamping dies beyond their intended lifespan is cited as a possible cause.
Dealers will provide a free replacement of the rear center seat belt buckle assembly. Hyundai has stated it will reimburse owners who have already incurred costs for this repair. Owner notification letters are scheduled to be sent out starting September 11. The NHTSA recall number is 26V452000.
