An issue with the starter solenoid in certain Genesis vehicles (as well as the Hyundai Genesis, which predates the brand) has led to concerns that a fire may start unexpectedly. Owners of the vehicles in question are being encouraged to park their vehicles outdoors until a recall fix has been completed.
The issue was first noticed following a “thermal event” in Korea, and Genesis’ investigation determined that the 2015-2016 Hyundai Genesis, the 2017-2019 Genesis G80, the 2017-2019 Genesis G90, and the 2019 Genesis G70 may contain the defective part.
That amounts to a total of 90,907 vehicles in the United States whose starter solenoids could become contaminated with water if they are driven in abnormally wet conditions. The automaker suggests that this could be a particular concern if a driver has driven their vehicles through a flooded road, for instance.
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In such a scenario, moisture may infiltrate the solenoid, potentially leading to a gradual development of a short circuit. Should this happen, there’s a notable risk of excessive current flow within the component, posing a potential hazard for an engine compartment fire, whether the vehicle is in operation or, more alarmingly, while it’s parked.
Genesis says that despite the risk of fire, owners can continue driving their vehicles. However, the company advises owners to park their vehicles outdoors and away from any structures to mitigate the risk of the vehicle potentially igniting a house fire.
The automaker says it is not aware of any injuries, accidents, or fatalities occurring as a result of this concern, and is launching a recall campaign to reduce the risk to owners. It plans to start reaching out to American owners on April 13, and it will ask them to return their vehicle to a nearby dealer, where a remedy relay kit will be installed in the engine junction box.
