Hyundai and Kia Recall 500,000 Cars Over Faulty Brake Light
Hyundai Elantras from model years 2013-14 and Kia Fortes from 2012-14 are affected.

Hyundai and Kia are recalling a total of approximately half a million compact cars over a brake light issue. Specifically, the recall affects 363,932 Hyundai Elantras from model years 2013-2014 and 134,366 Kia Fortes (Koup variety included) from model years 2012-2014.
According to the NHTSA filings, the foible lies with a brake pedal stopper pad that when worn out enough is at risk of leaving the brake lights lit after the driver has taken their foot off the pedal. Afflicted brake pedal assemblies may also trigger the traction control dash light, allow the driver to move the car's shift lever without their foot on the brake, or inadvertently activate the electronic brake override.
To rectify the issue, affected owners can expect a letter from Hyundai or Kia with a prompt to take their vehicles to a dealer to be repaired. The brake pedal stopper pads will be replaced with a new part that uses a more thoroughly mixed and presumably stronger pad polymer. The work will be done free of charge.
If you're unsure whether or not your Elantra or Forte is affected by this, here's a nifty, NHTSA-backed tool that takes your vehicle's VIN and tells you whether or not it's part of a recall. While notification letters will be sent out in February, concerned owners can contact Hyundai customer service at 1-888-216-2626 or NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236 in the meantime.
- RELATEDHyundai Donates Six Ioniq Hybrids to the National Parks ServiceThe Hyundai hybrids were given to the Blue Ridge Parkway, Santa Monica Mountains, and National Capital Parks-East.READ NOW
- RELATEDKia Forte Koup DiskontinuedR.I.P. Kia Forte Koupe (2010-2016)READ NOW
- RELATEDHyundai Kona Production Halted Over Labor DisputeTwo days of lost production has cost the Korean automaker approximately 1,230 cars as of Tuesday.READ NOW
- RELATEDHyundai Builds Elantra Sport Concept for SEMAThis Elantra is very fast and very orange.READ NOW
- RELATEDKia Opens 'Stinger Salon' Exhibits to Teach People About Its New Performance CarThese interactive showcases will let visitors learn all about the new Stinger.READ NOW