Photo: ANGELA WEISS / AFP / Getty Images
Hyundai is recalling over 421,000 vehicles due to a software issue that may cause brakes to activate unexpectedly, increasing the risk of crashes. The recall affects certain 2025–2026 models of Hyundai Santa Cruz, Tucson, Tucson Hybrid, and Tucson Plug-In Hybrid vehicles. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported on Monday (May 19) that the Forward Collision-Avoidance (FCA) system in these vehicles may engage prematurely, leading to sudden braking.
Between October 2024 and April 2026, Hyundai received 376 reports of unexpected brake activation. Four crashes were reported, resulting in four injuries, but no fatalities or fires. The defect is linked to the front camera software, which is overly sensitive to forward object proximity, causing the FCA system to activate earlier than expected. Hyundai estimates the defect rate at about one percent of the recalled vehicles.
Owners of the affected vehicles will receive notification letters by July 17, 2026. They can take their vehicles to Hyundai dealerships for a free software update to fix the issue. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) can be checked on the NHTSA website to confirm if a vehicle is included in the recall. Hyundai will also reimburse owners for any expenses incurred due to the defect.
The recall follows a class action lawsuit filed in California alleging a phantom braking defect in the 2025 Tucson and Tucson Hybrid FCA system. The NHTSA and Hyundai have been working together to address the issue since January 2025. Hyundai's North America Safety Decision Authority decided to conduct the recall after extensive testing and feedback.
For more information, owners can contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460 and reference recall number 302. Further details are available on the NHTSA website.