2026 HYUNDAI SANTA CRUZ SEL Activity

The vehicle is a 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL Activity with a 2.5-liter gasoline engine and 4x2 drivetrain. NHTSA data identifies it as a pickup manufactured by Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama in the United States. The decoder notes that the model year should be verified against the VIN records. The auction lists the vehicle as “CERT OF TITLE-SALVAGE” with a primary damage code of “REAR END.” Stage 1 reports that the visible evidence supports the rear-end damage code through extensive damage to the tailgate, bumper, rear lamps, and wiring. However, the salvage-title status cannot be confirmed from photographs alone. The rear of the vehicle has severe collision damage. The tailgate is extensively deformed and deeply creased, with a distorted lower edge and uneven surfaces around the lettering. In other views, the tailgate is missing from the vehicle and is visible as a detached part on the ground, where it shows further deformation, creasing, and surface abrasion. The rear bumper cover and assembly are absent, with large detached bumper and trim pieces visible on the ground. Rear lamp assemblies are also missing from their normal mounting locations, while detached red lamp components and associated wiring are present among the removed parts. Wiring and electrical connectors are exposed and hanging from the lower rear body area. The exposed mounting points, wiring, lamp locations, and lower rear components will require inspection and repair or replacement. The available findings document substantial rear-end body and electrical damage, but they do not establish the condition of the drivetrain, frame, suspension, safety systems, or other mechanical components. A comprehensive physical inspection and confirmation of parts, wiring, structural alignment, and system operation are recommended before purchase. Three NHTSA recalls are listed for this vehicle model and year: campaign 25V809000 concerns potentially improperly installed side-curtain air bags; campaign 26V047000 concerns an instrument-panel display software error; and campaign 26V316000 concerns front-camera software that may cause premature automatic braking. Recall completion should be verified by VIN with Hyundai or NHTSA, and any outstanding remedies should be completed before the vehicle is returned to service.