Hyundai recalls nearly 400,000 cars because of potential engine fires
Hyundai has recalled nearly 400,000 vehicles in the U.S. and Canada because of potential engine fires.
The recall covers 203,000 Santa Fe Sport SUVs from 2013 to 2015, some of which are going through their second recall, The Associated Press reports.
This recall also encompasses nearly 187,000 Elantras from 2019 and 2020 as well as 2021 Konas and Velosters, all of which have 2-liter engines.
Over 8 million vehicles have been affected for the more than five years that Hyundai and affiliated Korean carmaker Kia have suffered engine failure and fire problems.
An electrical short can occur in the Santa Fe Sport SUVs if brake fluid leaks into the anti-lock brake computer. Eighteen such fires have already occurred in the U.S., thankfully without injuries, according to new documents posted by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
If necessary, dealers will switch out the fuse and computer, but until then, Santa Fe Sport owners are advised to park outside as well as away from structures, according to those documents.
As for the Elantras, Konas and Velosters, their piston rings might not have undergone proper heat-treating, an issue that can lead to oil leaks, engine damage and even potential fires. Five blazes, again without injuries, were caused by this issue, according to documents.
Those engines will be inspected and replaced if necessary and piston noise-sensing software will also be installed.
The recall “enhances the remedy” from the September 2020 recall, according to a statement from the automaker, which plans to continue that investigation, through which it discovered replacing the fuse should reduce the risk.
Affected owners will all be notified next month. Those who have Elantras, Konas and Velosters, will be alerted toward the end of the month.
With News Wire Services
