The 2024 Hyundai Sonata is being recalled for brake lights that can flash instead of illuminate constant red when braking at certain speeds, the NHTSA disclosed on Monday. The recall affects 38,331 vehicles in the U.S. solely from the refreshed 2024 Hyundai Sonata.
The condition is a curious one: when braking hard above 31 mph, the brake lights will flash, as if the hazards are illuminated. This can be a confusing and dangerous miscommunication to drivers behind the suspect sedan.
Hyundai determined that software programming caused the error. The recalled vehicle population may have rear brake light software designed for other markets, such as Europe. Known as adaptive brake lights, the safety feature of flashing taillights in hard braking events warns trailing drivers of potential danger and is meant to prompt other drivers to brake quicker and avoid a rear-end collision.
Rear-end collisions are the most common type of crash in the U.S., according to the NHTSA, but the technology is not allowed here. The U.S. has other restrictions against certain types of communicative headlights and taillights found in other markets, but recent changes showed the NHTSA can keep up with the times. In 2022, for instance, it changed safety regulations dating back to 1967 for headlights to have separate high-beam and low-beam headlight elements. The updated regulation allowed for adaptive or matrix headlights that can adjust high beams away from oncoming drivers but still illuminate the other dark spots on the road. The feature is common in models from German automakers.
Hyundai said it knew of no crashes or injuries related to the flashing taillight issue.
Owners can expect notification by mail by Oct. 5, and will be advised to bring their 2024 Sonata into a Hyundai dealership to update the rear brake light software. It's under warranty and will cost nothing but time. Reimbursement will be provided to owners who paid for the update out of pocket.
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