Three months following a distressing car fire incident, Jason Pelletier is still seeking information and additional compensation from Hyundai, the car manufacturer.
On a morning commute to work on June 9, while driving his Santa Fe on a busy Toronto highway, Pelletier encountered a sudden fire outbreak from the vehicle. Thick black smoke and flames emerged from the hood, rendering the engine and brakes unresponsive. Despite the challenging situation of navigating through traffic, Pelletier managed to escape the vehicle before it exploded.
Adding to the unsettling series of events, Pelletier had recently taken the SUV to the dealership for maintenance, replacing a crucial head gasket. Despite noticing a burning smell post-service, he was reassured by the service manager that it was residue-related. Subsequently, he inquired about light smoke from the hood via text messages to the service manager.
The following morning, a warning message regarding a potential engine control system issue appeared on the vehicle’s touchscreen, prompting Pelletier to reach out to the service manager, who did not respond before the fire erupted.
Hyundai Canada emphasized safety as its primary concern, stating that the matter was under review. An investigation was initiated by Hycay Consulting Engineering, in collaboration with the insurance company, to determine the fire’s cause.
Transport Canada disclosed receiving 1,140 reports of vehicle fires from various brands between January 2016 and September 2026, emphasizing the importance of safety recalls for recurring issues in vehicles.
Pelletier’s insurance covered part of the damages, but he seeks additional compensation for personal belongings lost in the fire. Expressing concerns over the delayed forensic investigation of his Santa Fe and potential preventive measures, Pelletier has opted to purchase a different brand of SUV, no longer willing to drive a Hyundai.