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Hyundai Offers Buyback for Affected Elantra, Sonata, Santa Fe Models

  //automotive-transportation.news-articles.net/co .. for-affected-elantra-sonata-santa-fe-models.html
  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Wednesday, January 14th 2026 at 20:10 GMT by WSB-TV
      Locales: Georgia, Tennessee, Michigan, UNITED STATES

Atlanta, GA - January 15th, 2026 - In a significant development stemming from ongoing concerns over a vehicle safety recall, Hyundai has announced a voluntary buyback program for owners of affected Elantra, Sonata, and Santa Fe models. This move comes directly in the wake of a recent Channel 2 WSB-TV investigation that spotlighted anxieties and distrust amongst vehicle owners regarding the efficacy of the initial recall repair.

Earlier in 2026, Hyundai initiated a recall impacting a range of popular models - the 2011-2014 Santa Fe, the 2013-2017 Elantra, and the 2014-2017 and 2015-2017 Sonata vehicles. The recall was prompted by a serious fire risk linked to a potential manufacturing defect. While Hyundai implemented a repair plan as part of the recall process, a substantial number of owners expressed deep reservations about the long-term effectiveness of the fix, fueling fears that the problem wasn't adequately addressed.

Consumer Investigator Emily Thomas's report on WSB-TV shed light on these anxieties, featuring the testimony of individuals like William Pye, who described living with a constant sense of dread. "I felt like I was living with a time bomb under my car," Pye stated, encapsulating the pervasive fear experienced by many affected owners. Pye's statement reflects a broader sentiment - a loss of confidence in Hyundai's ability to fully resolve the safety issue.

The newly announced buyback program aims to alleviate these concerns and provide a viable alternative for those who feel uncomfortable with the repair solution. According to Hyundai's official statement, "Hyundai is committed to the safety and well-being of our customers. As part of our commitment, we are announcing a voluntary buyback program for certain Hyundai vehicles impacted by safety recall PC13."

This program isn't mandatory. It's positioned as a voluntary option specifically designed for owners who remain apprehensive about the safety of their vehicles following the initial recall work. Eligible vehicles include those within specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) ranges, covering the aforementioned model years. Owners who opt for the buyback will receive compensation based on the Kelley Blue Book trade-in value of their vehicle. However, any applicable taxes and fees will be deducted from this value.

The decision to offer a buyback demonstrates a heightened awareness on Hyundai's part of the impact of the safety recall and the resulting public relations challenges. While recalls are standard procedure in the automotive industry, the fact that a manufacturer is offering a buyback program underscores the severity of the concerns raised and the potential liability exposure facing the company. It's a proactive step intended to minimize future litigation and strengthen customer trust, even if it involves absorbing a significant financial cost.

Legal experts suggest that Hyundai's move could set a precedent for other automakers facing similar situations - particularly in an era where social media and investigative journalism can rapidly amplify consumer concerns and accelerate the pace of accountability. The visibility provided by WSB-TV's reporting undeniably contributed to the pressure that led to this buyback program.

For affected Hyundai owners, the buyback program represents a significant opportunity. It provides a pathway to remove a potential safety risk and receive fair compensation for their vehicle. As William Pye poignantly put it, "It's a relief to know I don't have to worry about my car catching fire." Hyundai has made it clear that their priority is the safety of their customers, and this buyback program is tangible evidence of that commitment.

Consumers are encouraged to visit Hyundai's website or contact their local Hyundai dealership to determine if their vehicle is eligible for the buyback program and to learn more about the process. Detailed information, including VIN range specifics, is available on the official recall website.