NHTSA Complaint #11537679 — 2012 HYUNDAI SONATA

The contact owns a 2012 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at 45 MPH, the the passengers side tail light failed. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was driven to the independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the tail light needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired however the failure reoccurred and was taken back to the independent mechanic where they stated the harness had melted and advised that he go to the dealer. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was confirmed that the passenger's side tail light harness was charred and deformed. The vehicle was repaired but the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer for a second time where it was informed that the harness or housing had been scorched and the tail light socket melted. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the accelerator had been depressed but the vehicle was slowing down. The contact managed to drive home safely. The following day the vehicle did not start. The vehicle was towed to the independent mechanic where it was confirmed that the battery failed due to the tail light being illuminated all night. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 78,000.