Quick Answer
Hyundai Motor America is recalling 421,078 vehicles in the United States under NHTSA Recall 26V316 (internal Hyundai designation Recall 302). The issue is a software calibration defect in the front-facing multifunction camera that can cause unexpected "phantom braking" and increase the risk of a rear-end collision.
Affected models are the 2025 and 2026 Tucson (gasoline), Tucson Hybrid (HEV), Tucson Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV), and Santa Cruz. The remedy is a free dealer software re-flash. Owner notification letters mail starting July 17, 2026.
Affected Models and Production Volumes
| Model | Powertrain | Units Affected |
|---|---|---|
| Tucson | Gasoline | 292,805 |
| Tucson Hybrid | HEV | 110,844 |
| Santa Cruz | Sport truck | 13,082 |
| Tucson Plug-In Hybrid | PHEV | 4,347 |
| Total | 421,078 |
The recall covers 2025 and 2026 model year production. If you own a Tucson trim built outside that window, your VIN should clear the lookup tool described below.
The Root Cause: Phantom Braking Explained
The defect lives in the software logic of the multifunction camera assembly supplied by Hyundai Mobis. The camera feeds the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) system, which decides when to apply the brakes to prevent or mitigate a forward impact.
What Goes Wrong
- The threshold issue. The current calibration is tuned too conservatively, which makes the camera oversensitive to forward objects that do not actually pose a collision risk.
- The result. The FCA system can engage the brakes unexpectedly and without prior warning to the driver.
- The downstream risk. Sudden braking on a highway or in heavy traffic creates an elevated rear-end collision risk from following vehicles that do not anticipate the stop.
The Numbers Behind the Filing
As of the official decision date, Hyundai has confirmed 376 consumer reports related to the defect. Those include four reported accidents and four reported injuries. No fires or fatalities have been linked to the issue.
The Free Remedy
The fix is a software update only. There are no hardware components to replace.
- Where. Any authorized Hyundai dealership.
- What gets done. Technicians re-flash the front camera with revised calibration code that aligns the FCA activation thresholds with normal driver expectations.
- Cost. Free regardless of warranty status.
- Time. Typically under an hour at the service bay.
Notification Timeline
Official dealer notification has already gone out internally. Owner letters mail starting July 17, 2026. If you do not want to wait for the letter, you can run a VIN lookup immediately and schedule the service appointment.
How to Look Up Your VIN
- Find your 17-digit VIN on the lower left of the windshield, the driver-side door jamb, or your vehicle registration.
- Visit nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter the VIN in the search box.
- If your vehicle is affected, the page lists the recall number, the open status, and a path to schedule the service.
- Alternatively, call Hyundai Customer Support at 1-855-371-9460.
What to Do in the Meantime
Drive With Heightened Awareness
Until the software update is applied, drivers should be aware that the FCA system can trigger unexpectedly. Maintaining a longer following distance and avoiding heavy tailgaters when possible reduces the rear-end collision risk if a phantom braking event occurs.
Reporting a Phantom Braking Event
If you experience an unexpected FCA activation, document the date, location, weather, road conditions, and any vehicles or stationary objects in front of you at the time. Reports can be submitted to NHTSA at nhtsa.gov/report-a-safety-problem and to Hyundai through the customer support line.
Insurance Considerations
An open safety recall does not by itself void coverage or change premiums. If a phantom braking event causes an accident before the software update is applied, document the recall status thoroughly. The fact pattern can affect liability assignment in some jurisdictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I disable the Forward Collision-Avoidance system in the meantime?
Many Hyundai trims allow the driver to temporarily disable FCA through the instrument cluster settings or a steering wheel button. The setting resets each time the vehicle is started. Hyundai's official guidance is to leave the system enabled and complete the software update as soon as possible.
Does this affect the Tucson N Line or Limited trims?
The recall applies to all 2025 and 2026 Tucson trims that ship with the affected multifunction camera, regardless of trim level or option package. The VIN lookup is the definitive source.
What if my dealer cannot schedule me right away?
Recall service appointments are subject to dealer capacity. If the wait is unreasonable, you can escalate to Hyundai Customer Support or visit a different authorized Hyundai dealer. The remedy is the same software flash at any authorized service location.
The Bottom Line
Hyundai's 26V316 recall affects 421,078 vehicles across the 2025 and 2026 Tucson lineup and the Santa Cruz sport truck. The cause is an oversensitive Forward Collision-Avoidance camera that can trigger phantom braking. The fix is a free software update at any authorized Hyundai dealer. Run your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls now if you do not want to wait for the July 17 notification mailer.
