NHTSA Complaint #11684545 — 2013 HYUNDAI VELOSTER

On or about May 1, 2025, I was operating my 2013 Hyundai Veloster when flames were observed emanating from under the hood. I immediately pulled into the median and, upon opening the hood, observed an active fire beneath the plastic engine cover. I contacted 911. Before the fire department arrived, a passerby extinguished the flames with a fire extinguisher. Firefighters from a nearby station arrived shortly thereafter and fully doused the engine compartment. The vehicle was subsequently towed to a Hyundai dealership. At that time, I was aware of an active recall related to potential brake line issues that could result in an engine compartment fire. After the vehicle remained at the dealership for an extended period, I was informed that Hyundai Motor America (“HMA”) would send an inspector. Approximately 30 days later, I was contacted by HMA’s corporate office and asked to provide documentation, including a copy of the title and insurance information. During this call, I was advised that while repair or replacement of the vehicle was unlikely, HMA would “make me whole.” Shortly thereafter, I received written correspondence from HMA stating that, following its review of the inspection results, documents, and other information, no product defect was identified as the cause of the incident. The letter concluded that HMA would not accept responsibility and denied my request for assistance or compensation.