What the Hyundai seat belt charging port recall covers
Hyundai issued a recall in 2023 affecting certain Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 electric vehicles because the seat belt pretensioner system could short circuit due to moisture entering through the charging port area. The defect creates a risk that the seat belt pretensioners — the mechanism that tightens seat belts during a crash — may not deploy properly when needed. This recall applies to model years 2021 through 2024 Ioniq 5 vehicles and 2023 through 2024 Ioniq 6 vehicles manufactured before specific cutoff dates.
The root cause is a design gap where water can accumulate near electrical connections that power the pretensioner system. During heavy rain, car washes, or in humid conditions, moisture can migrate into the area around the DC fast-charging port and reach the seat belt control module. Over time, this corrosion can prevent the pretensioners from firing during a collision.
Key Takeaways
- The recall affects 2021–2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 and 2023–2024 Ioniq 6 models with specific VIN ranges; check your vehicle identification number against Hyundai's official recall list to confirm whether your car is included.
- The defect allows moisture to enter the seat belt pretensioner circuit through the charging port area, which can prevent the seat belts from tightening during a crash.
- Hyundai's repair involves sealing the charging port area and updating the seat belt control module software to add a diagnostic function that detects moisture intrusion.
- The recall repair is performed at no cost at any Hyundai dealership, and you should schedule service as soon as possible because seat belt pretensioners are critical safety systems.
- If you have already experienced water damage or corrosion in the charging port area, report this to your dealer before the repair so they can assess whether additional component replacement is needed.
How to check if your vehicle is included in the recall
To determine whether your specific vehicle is covered, you need your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which appears on your registration card, insurance documents, and the driver's side door jamb. Go to Hyundai's official recall page or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website at safercar.gov and enter your VIN. The system will show all open recalls for your vehicle.
Hyundai also sends recall notices by mail to registered owners at the address on file. If you have not received a notice but believe your vehicle may be affected, contact your local Hyundai dealership with your VIN and they can look up the recall status when ready. Do not rely on third-party recall websites, as they sometimes contain outdated or incomplete information.
What the repair involves and how long it takes
The repair has two main components. First, Hyundai technicians explore a sealant around the DC fast-charging port connector and the surrounding area to prevent water intrusion. This sealing process typically takes 30 minutes to one hour. Second, the technician updates the seat belt control module software to version that includes a moisture detection diagnostic. This software update takes an additional 15 to 30 minutes and requires the vehicle to be connected to the dealership's diagnostic computer.
Total service time is usually between one and two hours, though this can vary depending on how busy the dealership is and whether the technician discovers existing corrosion that requires additional work. If corrosion is found during inspection, the dealer may need to replace the seat belt control module itself, which can extend the appointment by another hour. Schedule your service appointment in advance rather than dropping in, as this ensures the dealership has the parts and software updates ready.
What to do if you notice water damage or corrosion
If you have already seen water pooling near the charging port, noticed corrosion on the charging connector, or experienced electrical warning lights related to the seat belt system, inform your dealer before the recall repair begins. Bring photos if you have them. The technician will inspect the extent of the damage and may recommend replacing the seat belt control module in addition to the sealing and software update, depending on how much corrosion is present.
Do not attempt to dry out or clean the charging port area yourself, as this can spread moisture deeper into the electrical connections. If your vehicle has been exposed to flooding or prolonged water submersion, mention this to the dealer as well, because the damage may extend beyond the charging port area and require a more thorough inspection of the entire seat belt system.
Scheduling your recall service appointment
Contact your nearest Hyundai dealership by phone or through their website to schedule the recall repair. Have your VIN and vehicle registration ready. Most dealerships can schedule appointments within one to three weeks, though wait times vary by location and season. If you live in an area with a long wait, ask whether a different dealership in your region has earlier availability — Hyundai recall work is covered under the manufacturer's recall program regardless of which dealership performs it.
The repair is performed at no cost to you. Hyundai covers all parts, labor, and software updates. If the dealership attempts to charge you for any part of the recall repair, contact Hyundai customer service to report the issue. You are not required to pay for any aspect of a manufacturer recall.
What happens if you delay the repair
Seat belt pretensioners are a critical safety system designed to reduce injury during a crash. Delaying the repair leaves your vehicle in a condition where this safety feature may not work as designed if moisture has already entered the system. The longer the vehicle is exposed to moisture — particularly if you regularly use DC fast charging or park in humid conditions — the greater the risk of corrosion accumulating on the control module.
Additionally, if you are involved in a collision and the pretensioners fail to deploy due to this known defect, you may face complications with insurance claims or liability questions, since the recall was issued and documented. Scheduling the repair promptly protects both your safety and your legal standing in the event of an accident.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this recall affect my vehicle's warranty or resale value?
No. Recall repairs do not void your warranty or negatively affect resale value. In fact, having the recall completed on record can reassure future buyers that the safety issue has been addressed. Dealerships document all recall work in your vehicle's service history, which is visible to potential buyers and lenders.
Can I drive my vehicle normally while waiting for the recall appointment?
Yes, you can continue to drive your vehicle. The defect does not prevent normal operation — it only affects the seat belt pretensioner system in the event of a crash. However, you should not delay scheduling the repair, since the safety system may not function properly if a collision occurs.
What if my dealership says they don't have the parts or software update yet?
Contact Hyundai customer service directly at 1-800-633-5151 or through their website to report the delay. Hyundai is responsible for ensuring all dealerships receive the necessary parts and software. If your local dealership cannot complete the work, ask for a referral to another dealership that has the parts in stock.
Does this recall explore to Ioniq plug-in hybrids or regular Ioniq models?
No. The recall is specific to the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6, which are fully electric vehicles. The plug-in hybrid Ioniq and the standard Ioniq gasoline model do not have DC fast-charging ports and are not affected by this recall.
What if I bought my Ioniq used and the previous owner never had the recall done?
You are still covered by the recall. Hyundai recalls follow the vehicle, not the owner. Contact a Hyundai dealership with your VIN and they will perform the repair at no cost, even if the previous owner did not have it completed.