Hyundai recalls Inster over fire risk

Just months after the Hyundai Inster established itself in the market, the Korean carmaker has launched a major safety recall. Due to a potential fire risk, Hyundai is recalling around 40,000 units of its battery-electric compact car worldwide, including approximately 14,610 vehicles in Germany. Most owners of the Hyundai Inster, which launched in Germany in December 2024, will have to take their vehicle to a workshop. The recall addresses a safety-critical defect that could, in the worst case, cause a vehicle fire. The German Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) has therefore issued an official recall under reference number 16829R. The recall affects all vehicles built between 14 February 2024 and 14 April 2026. Given the lengthy shipping time from Hyundai’s South Korean plant to Germany, the affected vehicles are also likely to include most Inster models registered in recent weeks. The recall stems from a potential internal defect in the central three-way valve of the thermal management system. The fault may cause coolant to leak over time. If the coolant comes into contact with nearby electrical components, it could trigger a short circuit and, in the worst case, lead to a vehicle fire. According to the information available so far, Hyundai has not reported any injuries or property damage linked to the faulty three-way valve. The recall affects around 14,610 vehicles in Germany. Hyundai will contact affected owners directly once it receives the relevant owner data from the KBA. Worldwide, the recall covers 40,045 vehicles, presenting the manufacturer with a logistical challenge during the early phase of the battery-electric compact car’s market launch. As part of the recall, Hyundai will replace the faulty component with a revised part. Authorised service centres will carry out the repair. The manufacturer advises affected customers to arrange a workshop appointment as soon as possible and to have the manufacturer-specific recall code 61D127 available when booking. The recall comes shortly after Hyundai introduced the 2027 model year of the Inster in June. The company expanded the line-up with the new Inster Lounge trim, which focuses on urban lifestyle, design and comfort. The variant features a redesigned front end with a revised grille, exclusive 17-inch alloy wheels and the new Glow Mint exterior colour. Hyundai also offers an optional efficiency package that combines a heat pump with battery preconditioning. The model’s core specifications remain unchanged, including a WLTP range of up to 370 kilometres and the flexible interior layout. auto-motor-und-sport.de (in German)