NHTSA Complaint #11713680 — 2025 HYUNDAI TUCSON

During normal winter operation with the heater in use, the center console area becomes excessively hot. I have measured surface temperatures exceeding approximately 130°F using an infrared thermometer. The affected area includes interior touch surfaces, cup holders, and a factory-installed wireless phone charging pad. The heat appears to originate from HVAC ducting routed through the center console to supply the rear seat vents. Closing the rear vents does not reduce the console temperature, indicating heat transfer through the ducting rather than airflow. The condition is most severe after a warm-soak cycle (driving to operating temperature, briefly parking, then driving again). When a phone is placed in the intended storage or wireless charging area, the device overheats and triggers thermal protection warnings. The console surfaces also become hot enough to present a potential burn risk with prolonged skin contact. These temperatures exceed recommended ambient conditions for consumer electronics and lithium-ion batteries in a normal-use interior storage and charging location. The issue was reported to a Hyundai dealership. The service department stated the heat was caused by the rear HVAC duct and considered the condition “normal.” No repair, insulation review, or corrective action was offered, and no specific temperature measurements were provided in writing. Hyundai Consumer Affairs directed me to return to the same service department, despite the concern remaining unresolved. This condition occurs during normal vehicle operation and represents a potential interior thermal safety concern.