Hyundai Recalls Nearly 48,000 Kona and Kona Electric SUVs Over Rear Seatbelt Defect

Hyundai has issued a recall for 47,749 Kona and Kona Electric SUVs due to a potential seatbelt defect in the rear center seat. According to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the affected seatbelts may fail to properly restrain passengers during a crash.

The recall applies to 2026 Kona SUVs and a small number of 2025 Kona Electric models. Specifically, 47,733 of the conventional Kona SUVs are included, along with just 16 Kona Electric units.

The problem traces back to a manufacturing issue at a supplier’s facility. NHTSA filings reveal that an improperly maintained stamping die caused the rear center seatbelt buckles to be produced outside normal specifications. The supplier failed to inspect the die regularly, leading to wear from overuse and deviations from production standards.

Hyundai says it improved die maintenance inspection standards in January 2026 to prevent further problems. There are no warning signs that a buckle might be faulty, so owners are advised not to use the rear center seat until the repair is completed.

Hyundai plans to notify owners and dealers by September 11. Customers will be directed to bring their vehicles to a dealership, where technicians will replace the defective buckle with an updated part. If you’re unsure whether your Kona is part of this recall, you can check your vehicle identification number (VIN) on the NHTSA website.

As always, Boca Auto Care recommends staying on top of recall notices to keep your family safe on the road.