Owners have filed 54 complaints
about the 2014 Hyundai Equus with NHTSA between 2014 and 2026.
The largest single group is the suspension.
Across this model's run it ranks 2 of 6 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 100
Against the median year of the Hyundai Equus. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 0
0% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 43
25% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
Complaints filed with NHTSA, by model year. Bar colour is the FaultScore grade:
A
B
C
D
F
ungraded
What breaks on a 2014 Hyundai Equus
Every complaint is filed against a part. Follow any row for the complaints about that part alone.
Seats
713.0%
Median failure at 42,000 miles
Suspension
713.0%
Median failure at 68,899 miles
Other & Unspecified
611.1%
Median failure at 20,000 miles
Brakes
611.1%
Median failure at 60,000 miles
Electrical System
611.1%
Median failure at 46,798 miles
Lights
47.4%
Median failure at 26,750 miles
Acceleration & Cruise Control
35.6%
Median failure at 53,445 miles
Body & Structure
35.6%
Median failure at 52,899 miles
Steering
35.6%
Median failure at 80,000 miles
Fuel & Propulsion
23.7%
Transmission & Drivetrain
23.7%
Engine & Cooling
23.7%
Median failure at 32,000 miles
Stability & Traction Control
11.9%
Median failure at 80,000 miles
Wheels
11.9%
Airbags
11.9%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
1,000 – 9,999 miles
15.0%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
210.0%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
630.0%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
525.0%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
630.0%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
2014 Hyundai Equus 4 DR RWD
—
—
—
—
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Mar 2014peak 4Jun 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2014 Hyundai Equus
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received eight Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) and eight Kia America, Inc. (Kia) Part 573 Recall Reports between 2016 and 2023. The combined 16 safety recalls all involve the antilock braking system (ABS) modules or Hydraulic Electronic Control Units (HECU) manufactured by the equipment supplier Mando. The Part 573 Recall Reports contain varying defect descriptions and differing remedy descriptions for the same or similar equipment supplied by Mando. Safety recalls included in this Audit Query (AQ) review include: Hyundai recalls 20V-520, 20V-543,...
Recalls on the 2014 Hyundai Equus
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
23V651000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2015 Elantra, Genesis Coupe, Sonata Hybrid, 2012-2015 Accent, Azera, Veloster, 2013-2015 Elantra Coupe, Santa Fe, 2014-2015 Equus, 2010-2012 Veracruz, 2010-2013 Tucson, 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell, and 2013 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module may leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
Risk: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 2024080353,849 units in Canada
Brakes
Issue: On certain vehicles, brake fluid could leak into the control module for the antilock brake system (ABS) and cause it to short circuit. Note: This recall replaces recall R0246 (Transport Canada recall number 2023-527). For the Sonata model, only the Sonata Hybrid model is affected by this recall. Safety Risk: A short circuit could create a fire risk, even while the vehicle is parked and turned off. Corrective Actions: Hyundai will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to replace the fuse for the ABS module. Hyundai recommends that you should park your vehicle outdoors and away from other vehicles or structures until the recall repairs have been completed.
Recall 2023527326,942 units in Canada
Brakes
This recall was replaced by Transport Canada Recall No. 2024-080. Issue: On certain vehicles, brake fluid could leak into the control module for the antilock brake system (ABS) and cause it to short circuit. Safety Risk: A short circuit could create a fire risk, even while the vehicle is parked and turned off. Corrective Actions: Hyundai will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to replace the fuse for the ABS module. Hyundai recommends that you should park your vehicle outdoors and away from other vehicles or structures until the recall repairs have been completed.
Recall 2023125404,543 units in Canada
Brakes
Issue: Hyundai is conducting a special service campaign that provides anti-corrosion treatment to certain underbody components. Over time, components under the vehicle, including brake lines could corrode. If this happens, a brake line could fail and leak. A brake fluid leak can result in reduced braking. Safety Risk: Reduced braking can cause an extended stopping distance and increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: Hyundai will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to inspect the underbody, including the brake lines. The dealer will apply an anti-corrosion treatment to certain parts, and replace the brake lines if necessary.
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Lithonia, GA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
For the last year or so when driving my Equus the signal lights left or right side has been working intermittently. I can go months without any issues but lately it seems to be worsening. I transport my Mom that has dementia around and its scary because it seems never know when the lights may not work at all. People drive so crazy and if its dark or light they dont see my arm out the window. Please tell me that you can assist with this issue. I inherited this car from her brother that died of cancer, this car was his dream. I'm doing all I can to keep it in top condition. I can't replace the car, but I always try to keep it in top condition. Help please.
NHTSA complaint #11741912 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 95,156 milesJackson, MS
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:HEAD RESTRAINT
The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Equus. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH, the driver's side head restraint suddenly deployed from the seat. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was informed that the head restraint needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure had occurred with the passenger's side headrest, and the headrest was replaced. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 95,156.
NHTSA complaint #11680967 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Columbus, GA
SEATS
I am reporting a recurring safety-related defect in the headrest mechanisms of my 2014 Hyundai Equus. The first incident occurred in the front passenger seat. While driving, I lightly leaned my arm on the passenger headrest when it suddenly popped up with a loud, startling noise and occurring an road incident . The internal components crumbled instantly, requiring a complete replacement. This was a costly repair, which I first inquired about with the service department at AutoNation Hyundai in Columbus, GA. It was eventually repaired and completed at Columbus Body Collision, Columbus, GA On [XXX], the driver’s headrest failed in the same way. It popped out of position unexpectedly, and the internal structure again appears to have broken and crumbled, while I was parked at QuikTrip fuel station. Alpharetta, GA. This incident has made me concerned about occupant safety, especially regarding whiplash protection and the risk of the headrest becoming a projectile or collapsing under impact. Since both front seat headrests have failed in the same way, I believe this may indicate a design or manufacturing defect. I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate this issue and consider a recall so that affected Hyundai Equus owners are not left with expensive and unsafe repairs. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11664572 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Columbus, GA
STEERING
To: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) – Office of Defects Investigation From: [XXX] Date: 2 June 2025Vehicle: 2014 Hyundai Equus Location: Columbus, GA (Other driven locations: Buford, GA; Alpharetta, GA; Duluth GA)1. Summary of Vehicle Cyber Incident:My 2014 Hyundai Equus has been compromised through what I believe to be a remote cyberattack targeting the vehicle’s infotainment and navigation systems. This began shortly after I reported widespread digital and identity theft to law enforcement in Columbus, GA.2. Symptoms Observed: Navigation system lockout: The navigation system is entirely disabled. A satellite symbol with a circle and diagonal slash appeared on the interface and has not gone away, indicating a potential denial of satellite/GPS signal or remote access control. Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) Override: The RSE system appears to be remotely controlled, with the interface appearing on my front console screen without input. I attempted to check the RSE control box in the settings menu, but it was consistently unchecked upon restart—as if overridden remotely. Video evidence interference: I recorded multiple videos of the system anomalies, including screen mirroring and control takeover. Some were blocked from sending or sharing; others went through under inconsistent conditions. Unauthorized device influence: I believe connected devices (iPhones, etc.) are being used as access vectors into my vehicle system.3. Timeline of Events: [XXX] (Sunday evening): After visiting the Columbus Public Safety Center and speaking with Deputies McBride and I. Sanchez about ongoing cyber intrusions (mobile, home, and vehicle), the car infotainment system began behaving abnormally that night. May 20, 2025 (Tuesday): I returned to Columbus Police Department to formally report the vehicle hacking. A CPD officer expressed genuine concern and said he would relay my case to Detective Gross. May 23, 2025: I visited AutoNation Hyundai in Columbus INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATIO
NHTSA complaint #11664557 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Columbus, GA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
To: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) – Office of Defects Investigation From: [XXX] Date: 2 June 2025Vehicle: 2014 Hyundai Equus Location: Columbus, GA (Other driven locations: Buford, GA; Alpharetta, GA; Duluth GA)1. Summary of Vehicle Cyber Incident:My 2014 Hyundai Equus has been compromised through what I believe to be a remote cyberattack targeting the vehicle’s infotainment and navigation systems. This began shortly after I reported widespread digital and identity theft to law enforcement in Columbus, GA.2. Symptoms Observed: Navigation system lockout: The navigation system is entirely disabled. A satellite symbol with a circle and diagonal slash appeared on the interface and has not gone away, indicating a potential denial of satellite/GPS signal or remote access control. Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) Override: The RSE system appears to be remotely controlled, with the interface appearing on my front console screen without input. I attempted to check the RSE control box in the settings menu, but it was consistently unchecked upon restart—as if overridden remotely. Video evidence interference: I recorded multiple videos of the system anomalies, including screen mirroring and control takeover. Some were blocked from sending or sharing; others went through under inconsistent conditions. Unauthorized device influence: I believe connected devices (iPhones, etc.) are being used as access vectors into my vehicle system.3. Timeline of Events: [XXX] (Sunday evening): After visiting the Columbus Public Safety Center and speaking with Deputies McBride and I. Sanchez about ongoing cyber intrusions (mobile, home, and vehicle), the car infotainment system began behaving abnormally that night. May 20, 2025 (Tuesday): I returned to Columbus Police Department to formally report the vehicle hacking. A CPD officer expressed genuine concern and said he would relay my case to Detective Gross. May 23, 2025: I visited AutoNation Hyundai in Columbus INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATIO
NHTSA complaint #11664557 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 79,850 milesWilmington, DE
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:HEAD RESTRAINT
The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Equus. The contact stated that while his wife was outside on a hot day, upon opening the door, the front headrest air bag deployed without impact. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was possibly caused due to the heat. The contact called the local dealer and was informed that there no previous reports of the failure. The contact was informed to scheduling an appointment to have the vehicle diagnosed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 79,850.
NHTSA complaint #11607024 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Taylorsville, UT
POWER TRAIN
The problem is with the Accelerator pedal. It malfunctions, and is also known as a 'Dead pedal' at different times without warning and could cause an accident if it happens at the wrong time, like making a turn and the car will not accelerate, or move, just getting the car to move . I checked with a dealer if they have had any of these type reports and there answer was no they had not. It is very UN-nerving when it happens.
NHTSA complaint #11602830 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Taylorsville, UT
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The problem is with the Accelerator pedal. It malfunctions, and is also known as a 'Dead pedal' at different times without warning and could cause an accident if it happens at the wrong time, like making a turn and the car will not accelerate, or move, just getting the car to move . I checked with a dealer if they have had any of these type reports and there answer was no they had not. It is very UN-nerving when it happens.
NHTSA complaint #11602830 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Taylorsville, UT
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
The problem is with the Accelerator pedal. It malfunctions, and is also known as a 'Dead pedal' at different times without warning and could cause an accident if it happens at the wrong time, like making a turn and the car will not accelerate, or move, just getting the car to move . I checked with a dealer if they have had any of these type reports and there answer was no they had not. It is very UN-nerving when it happens.
NHTSA complaint #11602830 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 60,000 milesSumter, SC
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Equus. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the ABS warning light had illuminated and the vehicle was taken to a dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and replaced the front brake pads. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the ABS warning light illuminated again and the vehicle was driven to another dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
NHTSA complaint #11588709 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Flanders, NJ
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Equus. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
NHTSA complaint #11586503 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fairfield, CA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
How long in a timely manner to remedy? I am trying to sell my vehicle and this recall is hindering it's value. Manufacturer is unable to tell dealership how to fix recall.
NHTSA complaint #11576985 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Weston, FL
AIR BAGS
The right of my dash leather is lifting up, which will eventually affect the deployment of the right front air bag.
NHTSA complaint #11572593 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Weston, FL
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The right of my dash leather is lifting up, which will eventually affect the deployment of the right front air bag.
NHTSA complaint #11572593 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Menlo Park, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM ("ABS") MODULES THAT COULD LEAK BRAKE FLUID INTERNALLY AND CAUSE AN ELECTRICAL SHORT OVER TIME. AN ELECTRICAL SHORT COULD RESULT IN SIGNIFICANT OVERCURRENT IN THE ABS MODULE INCREASING THE RISK OF AN ENGINE COMPARTMENTFIRE WHILE PARKED OR DRIVING. Date note 9/22/2023. No remedy after 4 MONTHS!
NHTSA complaint #11570143 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Mabelvale, AR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Equus. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that the parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
NHTSA complaint #11569535 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fresno, CA
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Equus. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
NHTSA complaint #11565221 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Moreno Valley, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I am unable. To drive my car anywhere. Each time I start my car. All warning lights flash like a Christmas light. It causes the car to suddenly be slowed down. Or not to go full speed? I got the recall notice in the mail 4 weeks ago. My car has been parked in the garage for four months and has been there ever since. I need my car to go to work and I don't know what else to do. I can only do so much by using the cars of families and friends, but I need my car back because it's inconveniencing them too as well.
NHTSA complaint #11558345 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Moreno Valley, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
I am unable. To drive my car anywhere. Each time I start my car. All warning lights flash like a Christmas light. It causes the car to suddenly be slowed down. Or not to go full speed? I got the recall notice in the mail 4 weeks ago. My car has been parked in the garage for four months and has been there ever since. I need my car to go to work and I don't know what else to do. I can only do so much by using the cars of families and friends, but I need my car back because it's inconveniencing them too as well.
NHTSA complaint #11558345 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Moreno Valley, CA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I am unable. To drive my car anywhere. Each time I start my car. All warning lights flash like a Christmas light. It causes the car to suddenly be slowed down. Or not to go full speed? I got the recall notice in the mail 4 weeks ago. My car has been parked in the garage for four months and has been there ever since. I need my car to go to work and I don't know what else to do. I can only do so much by using the cars of families and friends, but I need my car back because it's inconveniencing them too as well.
NHTSA complaint #11558345 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Charlotte, NC
POWER TRAIN
Engine failure/thrown rod in engine while drive. 90k miles.
NHTSA complaint #11547515 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Charlotte, NC
SUSPENSION
Engine failure/thrown rod in engine while drive. 90k miles.
NHTSA complaint #11547515 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Charlotte, NC
ENGINE
Engine failure/thrown rod in engine while drive. 90k miles.
NHTSA complaint #11547515 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Wilmington, DE
SUSPENSION
The air bag suspension in these model cars are a known issue and they been known to fail almost every equus has this same problem and Hyundai knows about it
NHTSA complaint #11541032 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Trinity, FL
SUSPENSION
I was driving my 2014 Hyundia Equus on the interstate going 65 mph when my from suspension collapsed. The air ride suspension failed as I was driving. The car became unstable as my safety and the safety of those around me could have been catstrophic. By the Grace of God, I was unharmed and able to get off the road without harming anyone in the process. The turning Ratius was cut to 1/4 of its full capabilities as the entire front of the car has collapsed completely where the tire is rubbing against the top of the wheel well. Hyundia's solution is for me to convert me entire suspension to a third-party coil kit as they no longer make the airbag components to fix my problem. They also want to charge $6,000 for the process. Imagine not being able to find a key safety component for a 9-year-old car forcing the owner to pay $6,000 for a complete conversion that isn't even supported by Hyundia?! They literally took ZERO responsibility for their lack of sound engineering. Another alarming fact is no warning lights or messages appeared before or after, it's like the car didn't even register the problem.
NHTSA complaint #11533343 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.