Hyundai Motor America has announced back-to-back recalls, affecting nearly 600,000 Sonata and Accent models in the United States due to major engine and lighting system issues.
The affected Sonatas consist of 470,000 cars with the model year 2011-2012, produced from Dec. 11, 2009 to April. 12, 2012. These vehicles, built with either a 2.0-liter or 2.4-liter Gasoline Direct injection engine, were made at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama.
The recall also covers 99,500 2009-2011 Hyundai Accent cars, specifically built from March 1, 2009 to Feb. 11, 2011.
"[M]etallic debris may not have been fully removed during manufacturing of the engine crankshaft," said the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, referring to the faulty Sonata cars. "If the debris was not completely removed, oil flow may be restricted through the connecting rod bearings, causing connecting rod damage."
This could then eventually result in an engine failure, according to the agency.On the other hand, the Accents are being recalled to check the faulty brake light switch.
Warranties will be expanded to 10 years or 120,000 miles if Sonata cars will need a new engine assembly. The extension will not only be applied to the original owners of the Sonatas but to the current owners of the used Sonata cars, as well.
Hyundai said it will send out interim notices by Nov. 2 to the owners of Sonatas. The company will then send another notice once the needed parts become available.
Meanwhile, users of affected Accent cars should expect notices coming from Hyundai no later than Nov. 2. Upon receiving these notices, the vehicles should then be taken to a Hyundai dealer that will replace the faulty part at no cost.
Hyundai owners who wish to reach Hyundai should call its customer service at 855-671-3059. They may also visit www.HyundaiUSA.com/Campaign131. The owner should note that the number for the recall is 131.
They may also get in touch with NHTSA at 888-327-4236. The safety campaign number the owner should note prior to calling the NHTSA is #15V566000.
Earlier this month, we reported that the Nissan Motor Co. also announced the recall of its Versa Sedans and Versa Notes. The recall will involve nearly 300,000 cars.
