Being able to steer a car is always an important part of the automotive experience. A lack of such vital control is what brought on the latest Sonata recall, notes Consumer Reports. Around 140,000 Sonata’s are being recalled beginning in October due to problems with the steering column intermediate shaft. Mechanical failure can cause a driver to lose the ability to steer their Hyundai, which in turn boosts the risk of crash.
Hyundai claims Sonata recall is due to steering column connectors
Faulty manufacturing, improper assembly or even insufficient joint tightening in Hyundai Sonatas built between December 11, 2009 and September 10, 2010 are factors that made the Hyundai Sonata recall necessary. Those with Sonatas in question should go to their dealer for repair and power steering software update, all done at no cost to the consumer. Efficient repair of the problem should cost nothing, so customers should be aware, writes Consumer Reports. If consumers have additional questions about the Hyundai recall, Hyundai’s consumer service department could be reached at 800-633-5151.
Steering recalls for both Hyundai and Kia
Chosun Ilbo reports the United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has its eyes on Hyundai and Kia for steering-related recall issues. One complaint was filed over steering issues in the Kia Soul, but that consumer posted a video over it on YouTube, which drew major attention. Speculation on the part of Chosun Ilbo is that the United States government has it in for Asian automakers ever since Toyota went before Congress, however such allegations have not been proven.
The Hyundai Sonata and Kia Soul are the Korean automaker’s flagship models. In the first seven months of 2010, 108,000 Sonatas were sold in The United States, accounting for 46 percent of total sales by the automaker within the nation. According to Chosun Ilbo, exports of the Kia Soul in July totaled 8,000. As outlined by sales estimates, more than 10,000 Kia Soul cars could be sold each month for the rest of the year.
Further reading
Chosun Ilbo
english.chosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2010/09/02/2010090200929.html
Consumer Reports
blogs.consumerreports.org/cars/2010/09/recall-2011-hyundai-sonata-steering-column-problem.html
