2023 HYUNDAI SANTA FE SEL Premium

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe is listed with an auction condition of “CERT OF SALVAGE > 75% DAMAGE” and a primary-damage classification of “REAR END.” The visible evidence supports the rear-end primary-damage code; however, the “over 75% damage” salvage designation cannot be confirmed from the provided photos alone. The rear of the vehicle has severe collision damage. The lower half of the liftgate, including the license-plate mounting area and lower edge, is extensively dented, creased, and crushed. The horizontal red rear lamp/trim strip is bowed downward and separated from the liftgate near the center. The rear bumper cover is severely cracked, crushed, displaced, and separated across much of its width, with the greatest damage at the lower center and right side. Sections of the lower bumper and center valance are missing, leaving internal components and the underside exposed. A detached bumper piece is visible below the vehicle. The rear liftgate and bumper area also have pronounced deformation, open gaps, and separated lower components. The VIN decodes as a 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL Premium SUV with 4WD, a 2.5-liter gasoline four-cylinder GDI Theta III engine, and an automatic transmission. The vehicle was manufactured by Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama in the United States. One NHTSA recall is listed for this vehicle’s model and year. Recall 23V181000 concerns certain Santa Fe vehicles potentially equipped with a tow-hitch harness installed as original equipment or purchased through a Hyundai dealership. Water accumulation on the harness module circuit board may cause an electrical short and fire. The specified remedy involves installation of a fuse and wire-extension kit as necessary. The vehicle should be checked with Hyundai to determine whether it is equipped with the affected harness and whether the recall remedy has been completed. A thorough physical inspection is recommended, including examination of the rear body structure, liftgate and bumper mounting points, lighting, wiring, parking-assistance systems, safety systems, and any components behind the visibly damaged areas.