2021 Hyundai Elantra Seat Back Inspection & Replacement (Recall 204)

April 28, 2021 NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 21V302000

Seat Back Recliners Improperly Welded

An improperly welded seat back recliner could separate from the seat back frame during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

 

NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V302

Manufacturer HyundaieBay logo Motor America

Components SEATS

Potential Number of Units Affected 1,464

 

Summary

HyundaieBay logo Motor America (HyundaieBay logo) is recalling certain 2021 Elantra vehicles. The driver and front passenger seat back recliners may have been improperly welded.

 

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and if necessary, replace the seat back frame assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 21, 2021. Owners may contact HyundaieBay logo customer service at 1-888-371-9460. HyundaieBay logo’s number for this recall is 204.

 

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

 

Check if your Hyundai has a Recall

 


 

 

Q&A

 

Q&A: Recall 204 – CN7 Seat Back Frame

Q1: What is the issue?

A1: The driver/passenger seat back frame assemblies in the subject vehicles may have been assembled with seat back recliners that were improperly welded during manufacturing by the seat frame supplier.

 

Q2: What are the affected vehicles?

A2: 1,464 model year 2021 HyundaieBay logo Elantra vehicles produced from October 19, 2020 through November 5, 2020 by HyundaieBay logo Motor Manufacturing Alabama (“HMMA”) for sale in the U.S. market.

 

Q3: What is the safety concern?

A3: An improperly welded seat back recliner could lead to separation of the seat back from the frame in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury to occupants.

 

Q4: Have there been any accidents or injuries?

A4: As of the date of this filing, HyundaieBay logo is not aware of any confirmed crashes or injuries attributable to the recall condition.

 

Q5: What will be done during the recall service at the dealer?

A5: HyundaieBay logo plans to notify owners to bring their vehicles to the nearest HyundaieBay logo dealership for inspection and, if necessary, replacement of the seat back frame assembly.

The remedy procedure will be performed at no charge. HyundaieBay logo will provide reimbursement to owners for repairs according to the plan submitted on May 16, 2018.

 

Q6: When will owners be notified?

A6: Owners will be mailed notification letters beginning in late June 2021.

 


IMPORTANT

*** Dealer Stock and Retail Vehicles ***

Dealers must perform this Recall prior to customer retail delivery and whenever an affected vehicle is in the shop for any maintenance or repair.

 

When a vehicle arrives at the Service Department, access HyundaieBay logo Motor America’s “Vehicle Information Screen (VIS)” via WEBDCS to identify open Campaigns.

 

Description: On certain 2021MY Elantra (CN7a) vehicles, the driver/passenger seat back frame assemblies may have been assembled with seat back recliners that were improperly welded during manufacturing. An improperly welded seat back recliner could lead to separation of the seat back from the frame in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury to occupants. This bulletin describes the service procedure to inspect, and if necessary, replace the front seat back frame assembly.

 

Applicable Vehicles: Certain 2021MY Elantra (CN7a) vehicles

 

Parts Information:

PART NAMEPART NUMBER
FRAME ASSY-FRONT SEAT BACK [POWER] (LH)88310-AB030
FRAME ASSY-FRONT SEAT BACK [MANUAL] (LH)88310-AB010
FRAME ASSY-FRONT SEAT BACK (RH)88410-AB010

 

Service Procedure:

1. Remove the front seat back panels (A) on both LH and RH front seats by lifting in an upward motion while holding the top and bottom.

2. Loosen the seat covers on both LH and RH front seats by removing the J-clips and detaching the Velcro as shown in the photos.

 

3. Inspect the heat markings on the side rails of both LH and RH front seats.

If necessary, recline the seats past the center console.

Refer to the inspection criteria in the next step to determine if replacement is necessary.

 

  1. Review the inspection criteria below for No Good (NG) and Good (OK) seat back assemblies.

Using STUI, take clear picture(s) of the heat markings on both sides of the LH and RH front seats.

Please include the VIN or copy of the RO with the VIN in the STUI picture of the seats.

 

NOTICE

Refer to the “GDSM and STUI Tips” section on the HyundaieBay logo Tech Info website for the complete guide on how to capture pictures and videos using STUI.

 

5. If a front seat back does not meet the inspection criteria, replace the front seat back frame assembly.

The front seat back pad(s) and front seat cover(s) can be reused.

Refer to the shop manual section below for the front seat back frame replacement procedure:

Shop Manual ⇒ Body (Interior and Exterior) ⇒ Front Seat ⇒ Front Seat Frame Assembly

 

6. Reinstall all removed parts in the reverse  order of disassembly.

7. The service procedure is complete.

 


NHTSA Recall Number: 21V-302

HyundaieBay logo Recall Number: 204

IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL

2021 Elantra

Front Seat Back Frame

 

This is an important Safety Recall.

  • Please contact your nearest HyundaieBay logo dealer to schedule the repair as soon as possible.
  • This repair will be performed at NO CHARGE to you.
  • To locate your nearest HyundaieBay logo dealer and schedule your appointment please visit:

www.HyundaiUSA.com/Campaign204

 

This notice applies to your HyundaieBay logo, VIN:

 

Dear

This notice is sent to you in accordance with the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act. HyundaieBay logo has decided that a defect which relates to motor vehicle safety exists in your vehicle, with the VIN shown above. HyundaieBay logo is conducting a safety recall in the United States to address a condition with the driver/passenger seat back frame assemblies in certain model year 2021 HyundaieBay logo Elantra vehicles produced for sale in the U.S. market.

What is the problem?

The driver/passenger seat back frame assemblies in the subject vehicles may have been assembled with seat back recliners that were improperly welded during manufacturing by the seat frame supplier. An improperly welded seat back recliner could lead to separation of the seat back from the frame in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury to occupants.

 

What will HyundaieBay logo do?

Your HyundaieBay logo dealer will inspect, and if necessary, replace the front seat back assemblies. This procedure will be performed at NO CHARGE to you.

 

What should you do?

Please contact your nearest HyundaieBay logo dealer to schedule the recall repair as soon as possible.

The actual time required to perform the repair will take less than one hour, however your vehicle may be needed longer. Therefore, we recommend scheduling a service appointment to minimize inconvenience. If the Malfunction Indicator Light is illuminated in your vehicle, you should seek service at your HyundaieBay logo dealer as soon as possible.

 

If you have other questions

If you require further assistance, you may contact the HyundaieBay logo Customer Care Center at 1-855-371-9460. If you believe that the dealer or HyundaieBay logo has failed or is unable to remedy the defect within a reasonable time, you may submit a complaint to the Administrator, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 1200 New Jersey Avenue S.E., Washington, D.C. 20590, or call the toll-free Vehicle Safety Hot Line at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153), or go to https://www.safercar.gov.

 

Thank you for your attention to this important safety matter. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused you.

 

HyundaieBay logo Motor America

 

Importante Retiro del Mercado por Motivos de Seguridad — Si tiene preguntas llama 1-800-633-5151 y oprima “8”

 

If you are a vehicle lessor, Federal law requires that any vehicle lessor receiving this recall notice must forward a copy of this notice to the lessee within ten days.

 

Reimbursement Notification

If you paid for repairs related to this recall prior to receiving this notification letter, you may submit your reimbursement request electronically or obtain additional information at www.HyundaiUSA.com/Campaign204 or 1-855-371-9460.

 

No longer own this vehicle?

Changes to your name, address, or if you no longer own this vehicle — Update your information online at: https://owners.hyundaiusa.com/content/myhyundai/us/en/contact-us/update-vehicle-ownership.html

You can easily connect to this web page by using your cell phone to point your camera (or QR code reader app) at the code below. Then select the link which will be displayed on your phone.

 


RECALL 204 ATTACHMENT A

CHRONOLOGY OF EVENTS LEADING UP TO DEFECT DECISION

 

  • December 2020

On December 1, 2020, HMMA became aware of a warranty claim involving a model year 2021 HyundaieBay logo Elantra vehicle alleging potential improper welding of the seat back frame assembly.  The incident part was requested for further evaluation and received on December 8, 2020.  HMMA immediately sent the incident part to the seat assembly supplier for further inspection and analysis.  Upon conclusion of its investigation, the supplier notified HMMA that the laser weld lens protective cover was replaced due to damage, affecting its laser weld output, on October 20, 2020.  The supplier implemented an inspection requirement for all end-of-line products to assess containment and potential flow-out.  HMMA began monitoring incoming warranty claims for field incidents.

 

  • January 2021

On January 8, 2021, HMMA reviewed a second warranty claim alleging potential improper welding of the seat back frame assembly in a 2021 Elantra vehicle.  During this time, the supplier conducted reliability testing using “worst case” test parts; however, according to testing results sent to HMMA on January 22, 2021, no abnormalities regarding weld strength was found on any of the test samples.

 

  • February 2021 – March 2021

On Feb 8, 2021, HMMA informed HMC of its investigation findings.  HMMA requested the supplier to conduct additional seat back weld strength testing using certain conditions observed in analyzed warranty data.  On March 30, 2021, the supplier informed HMMA that the test samples did not meet strength requirements while testing under the revised conditions.

 

  • April 2021

On April 9, 2021, HMMA informed HMA’s NASO of its pending investigation into the seat back frame weld condition on the subject vehicles.  NASO met with HMMA on April 19, 2021 to discuss HMMA’s findings.  NASO also quickly conducted a U.S. market study and identified five (5) warranty claims potentially related to the subject condition.  Based on these findings, on April 21, 2021, HMA convened its North American Safety Decision Authority (“NASDA”) and decided to conduct a safety recall to address the subject condition in all affected vehicles in the U.S. market.

 

As of the date of this filing, HyundaieBay logo is not aware of any crashes or injuries attributable to the recall condition.

 


 


1 Affected Product

Vehicle

MAKEMODELYEAR
HYUNDAIeBay logoELANTRA2021

 


9 Associated Documents

Recall Quarterly Report #1, 2021-2

RCLQRT-21V302-3673.PDF 211.134KB

 


Recall 573 Report – Amendment 1

RCLRPT-21V302-1483.PDF 213.311KB

 


Owner Notification Letter(Part 577)

RCONL-21V302-5788.pdf 328.452KB

 


Remedy Instructions and TSB

RCRIT-21V302-1393.pdf 852.018KB

 


Chronology

RMISC-21V302-8738.pdf 85.696KB

 


Recall Acknowledgement

RCAK-21V302-5936.pdf 645.966KB

 


Defect Notice 573 Report

RCLRPT-21V302-4603.PDF 213.278KB

 


Manufacturer Notices(to Dealers,etc) – Front Seat Back Frame Inspection & Replacement

RCMN-21V302-3557.pdf 325.119KB

 


Recall Quarterly Report #3, 2021-4

RCLQRT-21V302-6017.PDF 211.325KB

 


Latest Recalls Documents

https://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/acms/cs/documentList.xhtml?docId=21V302&docType=RCL

 


 

SaleBestseller No. 1
FOXWELL Car Scanner NT604 Elite OBD2 Scanner ABS SRS Transmission, Check Engine Code Reader for Cars and Trucks, Diagnostic Scan Tool with SRS Airbag, Automotive Diagnostic Tool with Live Data
  • [Easy to Use—Work Out of the Box] + [FOXWELL 2026 New Version] FOXWELL NT604 Elite scan tool is the 2026 new version from FOXWELL, designed for car owners who want to figure out the cause of issues before fixing car problems by scanning common systems like ABS, SRS, engine, and transmission. The NT604 Elite obd2 scanner diagnostic tool comes with the latest software—no need to waste time downloading software first. Plug the scanner into the OBDII port with OBDII cable to start the diagnosis.
  • [Affordable] + [Reliable Car Health Monitor] Will you be confused what happens when the warning light of ABS/SRS/transmission/check engine flashes? Instead of taking your cars to dealership, this FOXWELL scanner will help you do a thorough scanning and detection for your cars and pinpoint the root cause. Note:The device is a diagnostic tool, not a repair tool. To turn off a warning light, you must first physically repair the issue causing it. Only then can the scanner be used to clear the corresponding fault code.
  • [5 in 1 Car Diagnostic Scanner] Compared with obd scanners (50-100), NT604 Elite code scanner not only includes their OBDII diagnosis but also serves as ABS/SRS scanner, transmission and check engine code reader. When it’s an odb2 scanner, you can use it to check if your car is ready for annual test through I/M readiness menu. In addition, live data stream, built-in DTC library, data play back and print, all these features are a big plus for it. Note: doesn't support maintenance functions like reset or relearn. For the SRS system, NT604 Elite can read and clear common fault codes not caused by a crash, but crash/collision data cannot be cleared.
  • [Fantastic AUTOVIN] + [No extra software fee] Through the AUTOVIN menu, this NT604 Elite car scanner allows you to get your V-IN and vehicle info rapidly, no need to take time to find your V-IN and input one by one. What's more, the NT604 Elite ABS SRS scanner supports 60+ car brands from worldwide (America/Asia/Europe). You don’t need to pay extra software fee. AUTOVIN may not work on some older vehicles or certain vehicle brands. If AUTOVIN fails, please input the vin code manually or go to the Diagnostic Menu to select your vehicle model.
  • [Solid protective case KO plastic carrying bag] + [Lifetime update] Almost all same price-level car scanner diagnostic tool only offers plastic bag to hold the scanner.However, NT604 Elite automotive scanner is equipped with solid protective case, preventing your obd2 scanner from damage. Then you don’t need to pay extra money to buy a solid toolbox.
SaleBestseller No. 2
OBDMATE OBD2 Scanner with ABS SRS Transmission, Reset Fault Lights | Check Engine Code Reader with Full OBDII Functions | DLC Pin Test | Battery Voltage Check, Car Diagnostic Tool
  • 【Reset ABS/SRS/Transmission/Engine Lights】 More than an check engine code reader, OBDMATE OM901 obd2 scanner performs comprehensive diagnostics for the 4 most-used systems (ABS/SRS/Engine/Transmission). It quickly clears fault codes, turns off warning lights, read data stream and auto VIN.
  • 【3.5" Handheld Scanner with 4 System Diagnose】 3.5" Super large TFT screen equipped displays an intuitive menu and clear readings of various sensors from ABS, SRS, ECM and TCM systems. It arrived with a silicone protective case and hard-shell carrying case, ensuring long-lived durability and drop resistance. The car diagnostic tool is plug-to-play designed, plug it and get diagnosis started without any batteries or updates required.
  • 【One-Click I/M Readines&Full OBD2 Functions】 Press F1 to get an intuitive corloured form about whether various emissions-related systems on the vehicle are operating properly. Help you get smog-check ready quickly. OM901 car scanner supports all essential OBD2 functions you need: read & clear codes, view freeze frame, read I/M readiness, retrieve VIN, live data stream (with graphing display), O2 sensor test, onboard monitoring mode, and EVAP leak test.
  • Battery Voltage Check&DLC Pin Test】 It allows you to monitor battery health by monitoring current battery voltage. Plus, this obd2 diagnostic tool features DLC 16-PIN test to check current voltage of every pin.
  • 【Automotive Scanner Diagnostic Kit】 The package comes with 1 car scanner, 1 USB-type c cable, 1 hard storage bag and 1 user manual(en). Free to update without any hidden fees. 5 languanges available in setting including English, French, Italian, German and Espanish. Valuable and Portable, making it a great tool kit for car owners, DIY enthusiasts, and professional mechanics.
SaleBestseller No. 3
BlueDriver Pro Next Gen OBD2 Scanner – No Subscription, Bluetooth Car Code Reader for iPhone & Android – Diagnose 8000+ Issues, ABS SRS TPMS, Repair Reports, Vehicles 1996+
  • [Diagnose Like a Pro] BlueDriver Pro Next-Gen is a professional OBD2 scanner and diagnostic tool that helps you scan, understand, and clear vehicle trouble codes with confidence. Turn your phone into a powerful car diagnostic scanner—no guesswork, no unnecessary repairs.
  • [Read and Clear More Codes Than Ever] Read and clear more codes than basic car code readers. Access enhanced diagnostics for Check Engine, ABS, SRS, Airbag, TPMS, Transmission, and more on supported vehicles, including expanded coverage on newer model years.
  • [Verified Fixes and Real-Time Data] Get unlimited, technician-verified repair reports matched to your VIN, with definitions, causes, and confirmed fixes. Monitor live vehicle data as you drive, view freeze frames, check smog readiness, and analyze Mode 6 test results.
  • [Expanded Make & Model Coverage] Optimized for today’s vehicles with strong support for GM, Ford, Stellantis (RAM, Jeep, Chrysler), Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Mazda, Subaru, HyundaieBay logo, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and VW. Enhanced communication on select 2024+ Nissan and Mazda models (see compatibility chart).
  • [Gas Vehicles 1996+ & Select Light-Duty Trucks] Works with all gas-powered vehicles made in 1996 or newer, plus select light-duty trucks and diesels, including F-250, RAM 2500, Silverado, and Sierra. Built for daily drivers, family vehicles, and real-world truck use.
SaleBestseller No. 4
FOXWELL NT614 Elite OBD2 Scanner for DIY Mechanics, Upgrade of NT604, 4 System Diagnostic Tool with 5 Resets (ABS Bleeding, EPB, Oil, SAS, Throttle), Read/Clear Engine/ABS/SRS/Transmission Fault Codes
  • 【Paid for Itself the First Use!-FOXWELL NT614 Elite】 (1)Wireless Software Updates: No Micro SD Card Needed or Included. Update over WiFi. (2)No Registration Needed: It's pre-done for you. To get you started faster, the scanner comes pre-registered to our email. (3)No Power Cord: Powers on via OBD-II diagnostic cable.
  • 【4-System Full Diagnostics - Know What's Wrong Instantly】 FOXWELL NT614 Elite obd2 scanner provides complete diagnostics for four key systems: Engine, ABS, SRS, and Transmission. Easily read and clear fault codes, view real-time live data like engine coolant temperature, wheel speed, transmission fluid temperature, and more. Whether the check engine light is on or your ABS or airbag warning appears, this code reader for cars and trucks helps pinpoint problems quickly and accurately—saving time and avoiding unnecessary repairs.
  • 【5 Essential Reset Functions - Making Maintenance Easily】 Equipped with powerful reset features including ABS Bleeding, Oil Reset, SAS Calibration, EPB Reset, and Throttle Matching, NT614 Elite scanner for car handles most routine service needs without professional tools. Ideal for DIYers and mechanics, it's an upgraded version of NT604 car scanner and offers premium maintenance coverage—at a fraction of the workshop cost.
  • 【Soft Brake Pedal After Repairs? Use ABS Bleeding to Regain Control】 When air gets trapped in your brake system after a pad or fluid replacement, it can cause a soft or spongy brake pedal—dangerous and hard to control. FOXWELL NT614 Elite abs scan tool helps you perform professional-level ABS bleeding at home. Safely remove air from the brake lines and restore firm pedal pressure in minutes. Perfect for vehicles equipped with ABS modules that require electronic brake bleeding after service. No more trips to the shop - save time and stay safe on the road.
  • 【AutoVIN Smart Scan + Lifetime WiFi Update】 Thanks to the advanced AutoVIN feature, the obd ii scanner automatically retrieves your vehicle's VIN and relevant data in seconds - no manual input needed (NOTE: A few cars need to manually enter the VIN). Stay up to date effortlessly with lifetime free WiFi updates. This means faster bug fixes, broader vehicle compatibility, and new functions added over time - no Micro SD card or computer required.
SaleBestseller No. 5
TOPDON AD500 OBD2 Scanner, Oil SAS Throttle TPMS BMS EPB Reset, Engine ABS SRS Transmission, Diagnostic Scan Tool, AutoVIN, Car Check Engine Code Reader with Battery Test, Lifetime Wi-Fi Free Update
  • [Brand-New ArtiDiag500] We've got everything you're looking for! Forget basic OBD2 scanners; TOPDON's ArtiDiag500 car scanner offers more. The all-new ArtiDiag500 not only includes full OBD2 functions and 4-system diagnostics but also provides DIYers with 6 maintenance services. The brand-new, cost effective AD500 is back in full swing!
  • [4-System Diagnostics] DIY enthusiasts, take notice! Will these 4-system diagnostics be the treasure you've been seeking? The ArtiDiag500 code reader offers in-depth testing for the engine, transmission, ABS, and SRS systems, reading fault codes and data streams. It also visualizes real-time data in chart form, simplifying complex data for storage and future playback, aiding DIY users in problem detection.
  • [6 Reset Functions] Hey, hang tight for a moment. With these 6 reset functions, the ArtiDiag500 has got you covered. It offers throttle adaptation along with reset capabilities for Oil, SAS, TPMS, BMS, and EPB. Seamlessly aligning the throttle, battery, tires, and brake pads with your vehicle, it also adjusts the steering angle and turns off the oil light. Looking to restore your car to its original condition? Look no further than the ArtiDiag500.
  • [Multiple Functions] The Smart AutoVIN of this TOPDON OBD2 scanner keeps track of your manual selections for vehicle make, model, and year and directs you to the suitable diagnostics. Max 4 Live Data streams integrated for much easier data processing. Diagnostic feedback online with this diagnostic tool to help you get tough repair operations well-completed. Real-time car battery voltage monitoring identifies probable vehicle defects.
  • [Global Support] Rest assured about compatibility with your vehicle and language – ArtiDiag500 currently supports 67+ car brands, 10,000+ models, covering most vehicles worldwide, and is available in 12 languages. Whether it's for your car or preferred language, there's an ideal choice for you. Plus, it's fully compatible with Android 11 for smoother use.

Last update on 2026-06-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


 

This product presentation was made with AAWP plugin.

Leave a Comment

Share to...