Hyundai is recalling 5,630 units of the 2026 Ioniq 9 EV because its power-folding second-row seats may not stop when they encounter an occupant or object, creating a risk of serious injury.
Ioniq 9 Second Row Seats Could Cause Injuries
The recall covers 2026 Ioniq 9 SUVs in Limited, Calligraphy, and Calligraphy Design trims, which are the most heavily optioned versions of the Ioniq 9 line.
The issue involves the power-folding second-row seats, which could “not respond to contact with an occupant or object” while folding. Because the seats use one-touch operation rather than a press-and-hold button, Hyundai says the system must stop when it encounters an obstacle.
Hyundai told the NHTSA that it is aware of two minor injuries allegedly linked to the seat-folding problem. The automaker has also received five complaints dating back to June 2025.
How Hyundai Will Fix the Ioniq 9 Recall
Hyundai plans to address the problem by reprogramming the seats to “update the logic for the rear power seat functions.” The automaker did not specify exactly what software changes will be made.
The planned fix is similar to the remedy used in Hyundai’s Palisade recall. That update changed the programming of the second- and third-row seats and required the tailgate to be open before the seat stow function could be used.
The Palisade fix also changed the seats to press-and-hold operation, removed the seat controls from the vehicle infotainment screen, and updated the pinch detection system.
Ioniq 9 Investigation Followed Palisade Recall
Last March, Hyundai issued an urgent recall for the 2026 Palisade after a young child was killed. The two-year-old was allegedly crushed by the folding third-row seat.
Hyundai began investigating the Ioniq 9’s seats at the same time as the Palisade recall. Third-party testing continued through the spring and summer, while Hyundai’s North American Safety Office met with NHTSA officials to review the investigation and its findings.
The investigation found that the Ioniq 9’s second-row seats could exceed Hyundai’s established force measurements before the motors stopped or reversed. The third-row seats, however, performed as intended.
Kia EV9 Has Not Been Recalled for the Issue
The Kia EV9, which is closely related to the Ioniq 9, has not been recalled for this issue. The vehicles’ close relationship does not mean the Kia will have the same problem, but owners may want to pay closer attention to power-seat operation.
The latest recall adds another Hyundai family SUV to a series of recalls involving power-folding seats, this time affecting the more commonly used second row of the 2026 Ioniq 9.
