The problem
The windshield wiper motor circuit breaker electrical contacts were contaminated during assembly.
The risk
This contamination interferes with the electrical circuit continuity and prevents the windshield wiper motor from operating. Inoperative windshield wipers can contribute to reduced visibility during inclement weather increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
The fix
Dealers will remove the contaminants from the windshield wiper motor circuit breaker contacts.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 97V-026 (97V026000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Hyundai Motor America |
| Component | Visibility › Windshield wiper/washer › Motor |
| Report date | February 26, 1997 |
| Owners notified | April 28, 1997 |
| Vehicles affected | 74,965 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the windows, wipers & sunroof
- 1996 Hyundai Accent window & wiper problems 9
- 1997 Hyundai Accent window & wiper problems 2
- 1996 Hyundai Elantra window & wiper problems 12
- 1997 Hyundai Elantra window & wiper problems 13
- 1996 Hyundai Sonata window & wiper problems 1
- 1997 Hyundai Sonata window & wiper problems 5
- 1997 Hyundai Tiburon window & wiper problems 6
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 97V-026 repair free?
Yes. Hyundai dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will remove the contaminants from the windshield wiper motor circuit breaker contacts.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 74,965 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.