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, however that consumer posted a video over it on YouTube, which drew major attention. One element of the Chosun Ilbo report that is quite interesting is that the article points out that some have alleged that the United States may be intentionally targeting Hyundai after Toyota’s trouble, since “it is very unusual for a massive investigation to be triggered by a single complaint”.
Within the United States, the Hyundai Sonata and Kia Soul are the flagship models of the joint car manufacturer Hyundai-Kia. Forty-six percent of Hyundai’s United States sales from Jan. through July 2010 were the Sonata (108,000 units). According to Chosun Ilbo, exports of the Kia Soul in July totaled 8,000. Projected sales estimate over 10,000 Souls will be sold in the U.S. each month for the rest of 2010.
Discover more info on this subject
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
