NHTSA Complaint #11615734 — 2015 HYUNDAI SANTA FE

I am filing this complaint regarding my 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, which recently suffered engine failure due to an unresolved issue related to error code P1326. The check engine light began flashing, and despite multiple visits to my local Hyundai service center (Gateway Hyundai Nissan in Fargo, ND), the problem was not properly diagnosed or repaired, resulting in catastrophic engine damage. The vehicle has a branded title, but I have confirmed that, according to Hyundai's warranty policies, recalls and campaigns are still applicable to branded vehicles. Hyundai has issued a recall for engine defects associated with error code P1326, yet the service center has refused to replace the engine under this recall. Instead, they are insisting on an out-of-pocket repair cost of $9,300.56, even though the engine failure is a result of the defect addressed in the recall. This failure occurred while I'm driving with my wife and 9-month-old infant, which posed a significant safety risk. Had the service center properly addressed the issue during my earlier visits, this situation could have been prevented. I am filing this complaint to request that Hyundai be held accountable for the engine replacement as part of the recall and to prevent further safety risks for other drivers experiencing this defect. I respectfully ask the NHTSA to investigate Hyundai’s handling of this recall and ensure that customers with branded vehicles are not unfairly denied critical safety repairs. The manufacturer must ensure that engine replacements under the recall are carried out for all affected vehicles, regardless of their title status, to prevent dangerous road situations. Thank you for your attention to this matter.