What 37 owners told NHTSA about the 2014 Hyundai Equus

For the last year or so when driving my Equus the signal lights left or right side has been working intermittently. I can go months without any issues but lately it seems to be worsening. I transport my Mom that has dementia around and its scary because it seems never know when the lights may not work at all. People drive so crazy and if its dark or light they dont see my arm out the window. Please tell me that you can assist with this issue. I inherited this car from her brother that died of cancer, this car was his dream. I'm doing all I can to keep it in top condition. I can't replace the car, but I always try to keep it in top condition. Help please.

NHTSA ODI 11741912

While driving at approximately 70MPH on the highway, my 2014 Hyundai Tucson Limited suddenly locked up with no warning lights, no noise and no prior symptoms. The engine completely seized, causing immediate loss of power. I was barely able to coast off the highway exit to a final stop on the feeder shoulder, in a desolate area. The vehicle has always been properly maintained and is in excellent condition. Upon research, I learned that Hyundai has known of internal engine defects caused by metallic debris left from manufacturing since 2010, which can cause bearing failure and engine seizure. My Tucson's failure matches the same pattern described in Hyundai's Theta II engine recall and warranty extension campaigns. This sudden failure created an extremely dangerous situation at highway speed and possibility of injury while being stranded on an open road. Many owners, myself included, were never properly notified of the risks. I am filing this report because this incident represents a serious safety defect and potential recurrence among similar vehicles that may not yet be covered by recall. I respectfully request that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigate this issue and ensure Hyundai expands its recall and warranty coverage to include affected 2014 Hyundai Tucson Limited vehicles exhibiting this defect that was well-known to the Hyundai Corporation. Date of Incident: October 23,2025 in Houston Texas. Vehicle towed to Hyundai dealer which diagnosed Engine Seized and currently awaiting Warranty Extension Approval (TXXC/TXXI)

NHTSA ODI 11697541

The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Equus. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH, the driver's side head restraint suddenly deployed from the seat. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was informed that the head restraint needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure had occurred with the passenger's side headrest, and the headrest was replaced. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 95,156.

NHTSA ODI 11680967

I am reporting a recurring safety-related defect in the headrest mechanisms of my 2014 Hyundai Equus. The first incident occurred in the front passenger seat. While driving, I lightly leaned my arm on the passenger headrest when it suddenly popped up with a loud, startling noise and occurring an road incident . The internal components crumbled instantly, requiring a complete replacement. This was a costly repair, which I first inquired about with the service department at AutoNation Hyundai in Columbus, GA. It was eventually repaired and completed at Columbus Body Collision, Columbus, GA On [XXX], the driver’s headrest failed in the same way. It popped out of position unexpectedly, and the internal structure again appears to have broken and crumbled, while I was parked at QuikTrip fuel station. Alpharetta, GA. This incident has made me concerned about occupant safety, especially regarding whiplash protection and the risk of the headrest becoming a projectile or collapsing under impact. Since both front seat headrests have failed in the same way, I believe this may indicate a design or manufacturing defect. I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate this issue and consider a recall so that affected Hyundai Equus owners are not left with expensive and unsafe repairs. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11664572

To: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) – Office of Defects Investigation From: [XXX] Date: 2 June 2025Vehicle: 2014 Hyundai Equus Location: Columbus, GA   (Other driven locations: Buford, GA; Alpharetta, GA; Duluth GA)1. Summary of Vehicle Cyber Incident:My 2014 Hyundai Equus has been compromised through what I believe to be a remote cyberattack targeting the vehicle’s infotainment and navigation systems. This began shortly after I reported widespread digital and identity theft to law enforcement in Columbus, GA.2. Symptoms Observed: Navigation system lockout: The navigation system is entirely disabled. A satellite symbol with a circle and diagonal slash appeared on the interface and has not gone away, indicating a potential denial of satellite/GPS signal or remote access control. Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) Override: The RSE system appears to be remotely controlled, with the interface appearing on my front console screen without input. I attempted to check the RSE control box in the settings menu, but it was consistently unchecked upon restart—as if overridden remotely. Video evidence interference: I recorded multiple videos of the system anomalies, including screen mirroring and control takeover. Some were blocked from sending or sharing; others went through under inconsistent conditions. Unauthorized device influence: I believe connected devices (iPhones, etc.) are being used as access vectors into my vehicle system.3. Timeline of Events: [XXX] (Sunday evening): After visiting the Columbus Public Safety Center and speaking with Deputies McBride and I. Sanchez about ongoing cyber intrusions (mobile, home, and vehicle), the car infotainment system began behaving abnormally that night. May 20, 2025 (Tuesday): I returned to Columbus Police Department to formally report the vehicle hacking. A CPD officer expressed genuine concern and said he would relay my case to Detective Gross. May 23, 2025: I visited AutoNation Hyundai in Columbus INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11664557

The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Equus. The contact stated that while his wife was outside on a hot day, upon opening the door, the front headrest air bag deployed without impact. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was possibly caused due to the heat. The contact called the local dealer and was informed that there no previous reports of the failure. The contact was informed to scheduling an appointment to have the vehicle diagnosed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 79,850.

NHTSA ODI 11607024

The problem is with the Accelerator pedal. It malfunctions, and is also known as a 'Dead pedal' at different times without warning and could cause an accident if it happens at the wrong time, like making a turn and the car will not accelerate, or move, just getting the car to move . I checked with a dealer if they have had any of these type reports and there answer was no they had not. It is very UN-nerving when it happens.

NHTSA ODI 11602830

The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Equus. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the ABS warning light had illuminated and the vehicle was taken to a dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and replaced the front brake pads. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the ABS warning light illuminated again and the vehicle was driven to another dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000. Parts distribution disconnect.

NHTSA ODI 11588709

The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Equus. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

NHTSA ODI 11586503

How long in a timely manner to remedy? I am trying to sell my vehicle and this recall is hindering it's value. Manufacturer is unable to tell dealership how to fix recall.

NHTSA ODI 11576985

The right of my dash leather is lifting up, which will eventually affect the deployment of the right front air bag.

NHTSA ODI 11572593

THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM ("ABS") MODULES THAT COULD LEAK BRAKE FLUID INTERNALLY AND CAUSE AN ELECTRICAL SHORT OVER TIME. AN ELECTRICAL SHORT COULD RESULT IN SIGNIFICANT OVERCURRENT IN THE ABS MODULE INCREASING THE RISK OF AN ENGINE COMPARTMENTFIRE WHILE PARKED OR DRIVING. Date note 9/22/2023. No remedy after 4 MONTHS!

NHTSA ODI 11570143

The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Equus. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that the parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

NHTSA ODI 11569535

The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Equus. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

NHTSA ODI 11565221

I am unable. To drive my car anywhere. Each time I start my car. All warning lights flash like a Christmas light. It causes the car to suddenly be slowed down. Or not to go full speed? I got the recall notice in the mail 4 weeks ago. My car has been parked in the garage for four months and has been there ever since. I need my car to go to work and I don't know what else to do. I can only do so much by using the cars of families and friends, but I need my car back because it's inconveniencing them too as well.

NHTSA ODI 11558345

Engine failure/thrown rod in engine while drive. 90k miles.

NHTSA ODI 11547515

The air bag suspension in these model cars are a known issue and they been known to fail almost every equus has this same problem and Hyundai knows about it

NHTSA ODI 11541032

I was driving my 2014 Hyundia Equus on the interstate going 65 mph when my from suspension collapsed. The air ride suspension failed as I was driving. The car became unstable as my safety and the safety of those around me could have been catstrophic. By the Grace of God, I was unharmed and able to get off the road without harming anyone in the process. The turning Ratius was cut to 1/4 of its full capabilities as the entire front of the car has collapsed completely where the tire is rubbing against the top of the wheel well. Hyundia's solution is for me to convert me entire suspension to a third-party coil kit as they no longer make the airbag components to fix my problem. They also want to charge $6,000 for the process. Imagine not being able to find a key safety component for a 9-year-old car forcing the owner to pay $6,000 for a complete conversion that isn't even supported by Hyundia?! They literally took ZERO responsibility for their lack of sound engineering. Another alarming fact is no warning lights or messages appeared before or after, it's like the car didn't even register the problem.

NHTSA ODI 11533343

On November 2014, purchased Hyundai Equus from Bob King Hyundai located in Winston-Salem, NC. Within a month, our headlights flashed on and off for a brief second. Occurred more often after that and the dealer checked the car to resolve problem. Nothing found. Months later, problem got more severe and once again dealer tried to fix and could not find a problem. Two or three times car went back to dealer and also a Hyundai dealer in Hickory, NC and once again, nothing was found defective. Over the past year, car has experience longer periods of light going off. Recorded on Dash-Cam at 1:00am on Interstate 77 lost of lights for 5 seconds at 70mph. I can supply a copy of that event if needed. I would say that I traveled over 300-500 feet without lights at that speed which could have been fatal. No warming lights or messages about the fault. I wrote the President of Hyundai Motor Company on December 3, 2022 with certified mail and return receipt and have not heard or been contacted by the company. I think this is a possible accident waiting to happen and injuries being incurred. Please help me with this issue as the safety of me and my family are at stake. Thank you for your attention into this matter. Cordially, Fred Crump 4958 River Bend road Claremont, NC 28610 Cell: 828-244-5555 hom: 828-459-7080

NHTSA ODI 11501608

Driver's exterior door handle failed for second time since owning vehicle resulting in having to manually return the external handle to the latched position by rolling window down. This part was replaced in 2017 the first time. This defect also prevents the key from unlocking the driver's side door.

NHTSA ODI 11481604

The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Equus. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lowered, causing the contact to nearly lose control of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the rear strut assembly, air springs, solenoid module, ECU, and connector assembly needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 68,899.

NHTSA ODI 11473408

Which vehicles this affects: 2011-2016 Hyundai Equus. All trim levels. This affects every Hyundai Equus, as all headlights are identical throughout all model years and trims. I am the administrator for the Facebook group of this car, and am part of the automotive lighting industry. I can confirm that everyone I’ve asked (several hundred people) have experienced this issue. I have owned 3 of these vehicles, all different model years, and can also confirm each vehicle had this issue. What happened: I came within inches of hitting a pedestrian crossing the road because the distance vision my headlights are supposed to offer has effectively been eliminated. My reaction time is now greatly reduced as I can no longer identify hazards beyond 38ft in front of my car using low beams. Why did this happen: The reflective coating on the bowl of the HID low beam projector is incapable of handling the UV/heat emitted by the stock HID bulb, and burns off. Complaints similar to this that resulted in recall: This is identical to what happened with the Acura RLX LED headlights, in which they had to issue a recall. Things I’d like to add: This is not a normal “wear and tear” item. The reflective coating of the headlight is THE most important part of the headlight, as without it the light can not be formed into a beam whatsoever. It is not a user serviceable item, nor is it accessible for repair. The entire headlight must be replaced, and the brand new headlight has the same issue. My headlights now only provide enough light to show me things up to 38 feet away, even while being aimed properly. This is a critical failure that has no viable solution without NHTSA’s intervention. Image of the problem: I have attached an image of the reflector bowl to show how the critical reflective coating has nearly entirely burnt off. For reference, the bowl shown in the photo SHOULD have a completely mirror finish. I have also attached their response to my report.

NHTSA ODI 11458478

Headlight provides inadequate lighting, car not in compliance with FMVSS 108. Caused by the reflector bowl in the low beam HID projector losing its reflective coating. Heat/UV emitted by the bulbs burns it off. Visibility reduced to 38 feet. Happens on all years/trims. No known repair. Replacement headlight assemblies also affected.

NHTSA ODI 11458481

ECS malfunction ADAS malfunction Car rides rough and unstable steering control Several dealerships have reviewed and replaced rear air shocks and compressor with no resolution No response from manufacturer about problem Creates very unsafe driving conditions ECS malfunction warning appears sometimes not always

NHTSA ODI 11439082

Car is equipped with an air bag suspension system. There was a failure with the airbags around 18 months ( in 2016) of the car being put in service. I was driving on a hway at 70 mph w/grandkids in the car when the airgbags failed and the nose of the car immediately went down and the car started to veer. Luckily there was no other cars around me and I was able to slow down and pull off the hway. Coincidentally, I was just a mile from the dealership and immediately took the car to them and they gave me loaner car and took it in to repair under warranty. Approximately 18 months later, the air bags failed again and the car was just past warranty so I paid for the repair but contacted Hyundai and they reimbursed me.Hyundai told me they had problems with the design of the airbags and redesigned it which is what my car was then equipped with. The air bag system has failed twice more since then. The most recent incident caused many problems with the car. The air bag system had a leak and caused the compressor to keep filling them. I don't believe this compressor was built to be in use so much and caused my battery and alternator to fail, then the compressor itself finally failed. All this took place because of the faulty suspension air bag system. I believe Hyundai was negligent in not issuing a recall when the airbags originally failed back in 2016 as it could have led to a bad accident. I went on line and found many chat rooms with people having had the same or similar experiences to me. Hyundai is well aware of the problems with the system yet has chosen to ignore it and hope the problem goes away. Because of all the problems with this suspension, they have since done away with it and gone to a standard suspension system on all the newer cars that are similar to mine ( now Genisis). They need to do something for all the older cars still on the road with this old suspension. The date listed below is for the last incident mentioned in this document.

NHTSA ODI 11424809