The problem
Hyundai is recalling 83,355 my 2001-2003 santa fe vehicles originally sold in or currently registered in the states of connecticut, delaware, illinois, indiana, iowa, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, west virginia, wisconsin, and the district of columbia. Road salt applied in these jurisdictions during the winter months May result in progressive, internal corrosion of the rear trailing arms, which could lead to thinning or perforation of the rear trailing arm steel. Owners May see or feel slight to moderate changes in vehicle operation which will increase if the vehicle is not repaired. These changes include a lowering of vehicle height that can lead to tire misalignment and steering pull. Owners May also notice a creaking sound.
The risk
If the corrosion is allowed to progress, the rear trailing arm May fracture while driving, thereby increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the rear trailing arms for internal corrosion damage. If specified levels of corrosion damage are found, the rear trailing arms will be replaced. Rear trailing arms that do not require replacement will have drainage holes added and will be treated with rust-proofing material to arrest the corrosion process. Inspection, treatment and replacement procedures will be conducted at no cost to owners. The recall is expected to begin during May 2009. Owners May contact the Hyundai customer assistance center at 1-800-633-5151.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 09V-123 (09V123000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 090 |
| Manufacturer | Hyundai Motor America |
| Component | Suspension › Rear |
| Report date | April 16, 2009 |
| Owners notified | July 17, 2009 |
| Vehicles affected | 83,355 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the suspension
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 09V-123 repair free?
Yes. Hyundai dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will inspect the rear trailing arms for internal corrosion damage. If specified levels of corrosion damage are found, the rear trailing arms will be replaced.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 83,355 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.