NHTSA Complaint #11664572 — 2014 HYUNDAI EQUUS

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)