Clearwater, FL — Recall Alert: Defective Rearview Cam in Hyundai Vehicles May Increase Crash Risk

Clearwater, FL (December 1st, 2025) – Hyundai has issued a significant safety recall affecting over 143,000 vehicles across Florida and the U.S. due to a defective rearview camera system. Due to the defect, the camera may fail to display images, creating dangerous blind spots and significantly increasing the risk of backing collisions. 

Light & Wyatt Law Group understands the challenges Florida families face when dealing with defective products and automotive safety issues. Our team has the knowledge and resources to take on major manufacturers and fight for the compensation our clients deserve. Don’t face a major automotive manufacturer alone. If you have been affected by a defective Hyundai rearview camera, call Light & Wyatt Law Group at 727-499-9900 today. We offer free consultations.

Understanding the Hyundai Rearview Camera Recall

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced it is recalling 143,472 Hyundai vehicles equipped with faulty rearview cameras that may not display properly. The recall specifically affects certain 2024-2025 Santa Fe and Santa Fe hybrid models sold throughout Florida and nationwide.

According to the official recall notice, the rearview camera may have been installed incorrectly during manufacturing. Consequently, the wiring harness may become damaged, which can prevent the camera image from displaying when drivers shift into reverse. Without a functioning rearview camera, drivers lose critical visibility of children, pedestrians, objects, and other vehicles behind them, dramatically increasing the likelihood of backing accidents.

Why Is This Camera Defect Dangerous?

Rearview cameras have become an essential safety feature in modern vehicles, and federal law has required them on all new cars sold since 2018. These cameras provide drivers with a clear view of the area directly behind the vehicle, helping prevent back-over accidents that frequently result in serious injuries or fatalities, particularly to children and elderly pedestrians.

When a rearview camera fails to display, drivers must rely solely on mirrors and turning their heads to check blind spots. This significantly reduces visibility and reaction time. In congested areas throughout the Tampa Bay region, even a momentary lapse in visibility can have severe and lasting consequences.

The defect in the Hyundai vehicles’ rearview camera systems stems from improper installation during the manufacturing process. As such, affected vehicle owners purchased cars with safety systems that were compromised from the start.

Manufacturing Defects and Your Consumer Rights

This Hyundai recall represents a clear case of a manufacturing defect, which is one of the primary types of product liability claims recognized under Florida law. A manufacturing defect occurs when a product deviates from its intended design during the production process, resulting in a dangerous condition that poses risks to consumers.

In this situation, Hyundai’s rearview cameras were not installed according to proper specifications. The improper installation damaged the wiring harness, causing the safety feature to malfunction. Therefore, from the moment these vehicles left the factory, they contained a hidden defect that violated federal safety standards and put drivers at risk.

Consumers who purchase new vehicles have a reasonable expectation that critical safety features will function as designed and advertised. When a manufacturer fails to properly assemble a vehicle and sells it with a defective safety system, they breach that expectation and may be held liable for the consequences.

Manufacturing defects fall squarely within the scope of product liability law. Under Florida’s product liability statutes, manufacturers can be held strictly liable for defects that cause injury or damage, meaning that consumers do not need to prove negligence, only that the defect existed and caused harm. This legal framework exists to protect consumers and ensure that manufacturers maintain rigorous quality control standards.

If you purchased a Hyundai Santa Fe believing you were getting a safe, fully functional vehicle equipped with federally mandated safety features, only to discover that the rearview camera was defectively installed, you have legal rights. Beyond the free repair offered, you may be entitled to additional compensation if you have suffered any harm, financial loss, or diminished value as a result of this defect.

Your Rights as a Consumer in Florida

Florida consumers who purchase defective products have significant legal protections under state and federal law. When a manufacturer sells a vehicle with a safety defect, particularly one that violates federal safety standards, consumers may be entitled to compensation beyond just a free repair.

If you have experienced an accident, near-miss, or property damage due to a malfunctioning rearview camera in your Hyundai Santa Fe, you may have grounds for a product liability claim. Additionally, if you have incurred expenses related to the defect, suffered a loss in vehicle value, or experienced other damages, an experienced defective product lawyer can help you understand your options.

Product liability cases involving defective automotive components can be complex, requiring detailed investigation into the manufacturing process, design specifications, and the manufacturer’s knowledge of the defect. Having knowledgeable legal representation ensures your rights are protected and that you receive full compensation for any losses you have suffered.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will getting the free recall repair affect my ability to file a legal claim?

No. Accepting the free repair from Hyundai does not waive your right to pursue compensation for damages you have already suffered due to the defect. If you experienced an accident, injury, or other losses before the repair was completed, you may still have a valid claim. However, it is important to consult with a defective product lawyer before signing any documents or settlements offered by the manufacturer.

What types of compensation might I be entitled to if the defective camera caused an accident?

You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, diminished vehicle value, and other damages. Each case is unique, and the specific compensation available depends on the facts of your situation. An experienced attorney can evaluate your case and explain what damages may apply.

How long do I have to file a claim related to this defect?

Florida has statutes of limitations that set deadlines for filing product liability claims. Generally, you have four years from the date of injury or discovery of the defect to file a claim, but these deadlines can vary based on specific circumstances. It is important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your rights are protected, and all deadlines are met.

Light & Wyatt Law Group is a Florida-based law firm serving clients throughout Tampa Bay, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and surrounding communities. We are committed to holding manufacturers accountable for defective products and protecting the rights of injured consumers. Contact us today at 727-499-9900 for experienced legal representation you can trust.

Jim Magazine

James (Jim) Magazine is a Florida Board Certified Civil Trial lawyer who has spent his career helping injured victims. Jim is licensed to practice law in the State of Florida since 1990 and is also admitted to practice at the Appellate level and admitted to the United States Supreme Court.

Years of Experience: More than 30 years
Florida Registration Status: Active
Bar Admissions:
Clearwater Bar Association
West Pasco Bar Association