The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into a series of vehicle recalls by Hyundai and Kia, affecting over 6.4 million vehicles in total. These recalls were initiated due to brake fluid leaks that have the potential to cause fires. The NHTSA will be examining 16 individual recalls since 2016, which were related to issues with the antilock braking system and Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU), both of which were manufactured by the same supplier.
One of the primary focuses of this investigation is to evaluate the timeliness of the automakers’ decision-making process regarding these defects. The NHTSA will also be assessing whether the manufacturers adhered to proper reporting requirements, as well as the discrepancies in defect descriptions and remedies between the various recalls.
The safety regulator can initiate an audit query if the completion rate of a manufacturer’s recall is low. In the case of Hyundai and Kia, they had previously recalled a combined total of 3.37 million vehicles in the U.S. These recalls were issued after the auto manufacturers discovered that internal brake fluid leaks could result in electrical shorts and potential fires in the affected models.
Hyundai’s recall covered a variety of models, including the Elantra, Genesis Coupe, Sonata Hybrid, Accent, Veloster, Santa Fe, and Tucson, among others. Kia’s recall, on the other hand, included vehicles such as Borrego, Cadenza, Forte, Sportage, Optima, and Soul, among others.
While there have been no crashes, injuries, or fatalities reported as a result of these defects, there have been several incidents related to the recalls. Hyundai reported 42 recall-related incidents since 2017, while Kia confirmed one engine compartment fire, three localized fires, and six incidents of localized melting.
To address the issue, dealers will be replacing the ABS and HECU fuses in the affected vehicles. The investigation by the NHTSA aims to ensure the safety and well-being of Hyundai and Kia vehicle owners and prevent any potential fire risks.
FAQ
1. Is my vehicle affected by these recalls?
To determine if your vehicle is included in any of the recalls, it is recommended to check with the manufacturer or contact your local dealership for assistance.
2. What should I do if my vehicle is affected?
If your vehicle is part of the recall, it is advised to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer or contact your local dealership to schedule an appointment for the necessary repairs or replacements.
3. Are there any immediate safety concerns?
While there is a potential fire risk associated with the brake fluid leaks, there haven’t been any reported crashes, injuries, or fatalities. However, it is still important to address the recall promptly to ensure the safety of both yourself and your vehicle.
4. Will the repairs be covered under warranty?
The coverage of repairs under warranty may vary depending on the specific circumstances and the terms of your vehicle’s warranty. It is recommended to consult with the manufacturer or your local dealership for more information regarding warranty coverage for these recalls.
(Note: The original source article did not provide information on the completion rate of the recalls, so this detail has not been included in the new article.)