NHTSA Complaint #11595199 — 2015 HYUNDAI SONATA

In April 2023, I purchased a 2015 Hyundai Sonata Eco from Carvana with 56,000 miles. By May 2023, the mileage was around 72,000. While driving from South Houston to North Houston on [XXX], 2023, the car loudly popped as I exited the highway around 5:00 pm CST. I noticed smoke coming from the rear and parked in a construction zone near a convenience store. Upon inspection, the vehicle stopped working, and I saw a significant fluid leak underneath. A bystander alerted me to flames from the bottom and under the hood. I called 911, and the fire department arrived to extinguish the fire. Fortunately, there were no injuries or property damage. I later discovered that specific 2011–2015 Hyundai models had been recalled due to fire risk (NHTSA ID: 23V-651000), but this did not include the Hyundai Sonata Eco. The recall was due to the anti-lock brake system (ABS) module leaking brake fluid internally, potentially causing an electrical short and leading to a fire. I have photos and videos documenting the incident. Following the incident, I filed a claim with Travelers Insurance, and on May 28th, 2023, the vehicle was declared a total loss. While I appreciate their offer of ~$13,000, it is insufficient to cover the remaining loan balance of approximately $17,300. I am worried about the financial impact and potential danger I face due to this malfunction. The lack of information highlights the need for better consumer education. I am now looking into options to cover the remaining loan balance, acquire a new vehicle, and, most importantly, advocate for improved driver education regarding this defect. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)