The Hyundai Sonata of 2024 is undergoing a recall due to brake lights that may flicker instead of staying a constant red while braking at specific speeds, as revealed by the NHTSA on Monday.
This recall impacts 38,331 vehicles in the United States exclusively from the updated 2024 Hyundai Sonata model. The issue is quite unusual: upon hard braking over 31 mph, the brake lights will flicker, resembling hazard lights. This could lead to confusion and pose a hazard to drivers trailing the involved car.
Hyundai has identified that a software error is the root cause. The group of recalled vehicles may feature rear brake light software meant for other regions, like Europe. Referred to as adaptive brake lights, this safety technology of flashing taillights during intense braking events serves to alert trailing drivers of potential risks and encourages them to brake faster to evade a rear-end collision.
According to the NHTSA, rear-end collisions are the predominant type of accident in the United States, though such technology is prohibited here. The country has imposed limitations on specific kinds of communicative headlights and taillights seen in other markets, but recent adjustments demonstrate that the NHTSA can adapt to modern developments. For example, in 2022, safety regulations from 1967 were updated to allow for adaptive or matrix headlights that can redirect high beams away from oncoming traffic while still illuminating other dark areas on the road. This feature is prevalent in models produced by German automakers.
Hyundai confirmed that no accidents or injuries have been reported due to the flickering taillight problem.
Owners will receive notification by mail before October 5 and will be instructed to take their 2024 Sonata to a Hyundai service center to update the rear brake light software. This service is covered under warranty and will incur no charges except for the time spent. Owners who have paid for the update themselves will be reimbursed.
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