NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Steering complaints
271 reportsClear category filter33,000 miles · Feb 1, 2015
SteeringSuspension
THEY CAR DRIVES FINE UNTIL YOU HIT A ANY SORT OF BUMP OR HOLE IN THE ROAD. WHEN THAT HAPPENS THE BACK END WIGGLES AND IN THE RAIN IT IS MUCH WORSE. IT IS EVEN WORSE ON THE HIGHWAY GOING AT A HIGHER SPEED. I HAVE READ SEVERAL OTHER COMPLAINTS ONLINE WITH DRIVERS FACING SIMILAR ISSUES. I AM WORRIED THAT IT WILL ONE DAY LOSE CON…
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THEY CAR DRIVES FINE UNTIL YOU HIT A ANY SORT OF BUMP OR HOLE IN THE ROAD. WHEN THAT HAPPENS THE BACK END WIGGLES AND IN THE RAIN IT IS MUCH WORSE. IT IS EVEN WORSE ON THE HIGHWAY GOING AT A HIGHER SPEED. I HAVE READ SEVERAL OTHER COMPLAINTS ONLINE WITH DRIVERS FACING SIMILAR ISSUES. I AM WORRIED THAT IT WILL ONE DAY LOSE CONTROL. I DO NOT FEEL LIKE I AM IN CONTROL OF THE CAR, I'VE TAKEN IT TO THE DEALER SEVERAL TIMES AND THEY SAY EVERYTHING IS FINE AND THAT IS JUST HOW THE CAR DRIVES. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10680416
5,000 miles · Jan 30, 2015
Steering
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 HYUNDAI ELANTRA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH AND GOING OVER A BUMP, THE VEHICLE VEERED TO THE RIGHT AND LEFT. THE FAILURE RECURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 5,00…
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TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 HYUNDAI ELANTRA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH AND GOING OVER A BUMP, THE VEHICLE VEERED TO THE RIGHT AND LEFT. THE FAILURE RECURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 5,000.
NHTSA ODI #10680039
5,557 miles · Dec 11, 2014
Electronic Stability Control (esc)Steering
EPS AND ESC LIGHTS CAME ON AND VEHICLE LOST POWER STEERING. PROBLEM IS INTERMITTENT. VEHICLE TOWED TO DEALERSHIP. DEALERSHIP IS UNABLE TO REPLICATE ISSUE AT THIS TIME. NO FAULT CODES FOUND BY DEALERSHIP SERVICE DEPT. DEALER ADVISED THEY WILL TEST VEHICLE AGAIN TODAY (12/11/14) TO TRY TO REPLICATE ISSUE. ISSUE OCCURRED SEVERAL TI…
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EPS AND ESC LIGHTS CAME ON AND VEHICLE LOST POWER STEERING. PROBLEM IS INTERMITTENT. VEHICLE TOWED TO DEALERSHIP. DEALERSHIP IS UNABLE TO REPLICATE ISSUE AT THIS TIME. NO FAULT CODES FOUND BY DEALERSHIP SERVICE DEPT. DEALER ADVISED THEY WILL TEST VEHICLE AGAIN TODAY (12/11/14) TO TRY TO REPLICATE ISSUE. ISSUE OCCURRED SEVERAL TIMES (8 TO 9) OVER A 24 HOUR PERIOD. VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION AS CONDITION OCCURS RANDOMLY. EPS LIGHT WILL TURN OFF AND ESC LIGHT STAYED ILLUMINATED. VEHICLE RECOVERED ON ITS OWN WHEN EPS LIGHT TURNED OFF. BOTH LIGHTS WERE OFF THE FOLLOWING MORNING WHEN TOWED TO DEALERSHIP AFTER SITTING OVERNIGHT. CONDITION HAS OCCURRED WHILE MAKING A U-TURN, PULLING OUT OF DRIVE WAY, AND WHILE MAKING LEFT AND RIGHT TURNS. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10663587
15,765 miles · Nov 27, 2014
Electrical SystemSteering
WHEN REACHING 45-50 MPH, STEERING BECAME SO LOOSE THAT IT WAS DIFFICULT TO STAY IN MY LANE. PULLED OVER TO SEE IF THERE WERE ANY APPARENT PROBLEMS WITH THE TIRES, BUT NONE WERE SEEN. TRIED DRIVING AGAIN, SAME PROBLEM OCCURRED AT ABOUT THE SAME SPEED (NOTICED IT AROUND 40 MPH THIS TIME). COULD NOT CONTINUE TRIP; HAD TO BE TOWED 5…
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WHEN REACHING 45-50 MPH, STEERING BECAME SO LOOSE THAT IT WAS DIFFICULT TO STAY IN MY LANE. PULLED OVER TO SEE IF THERE WERE ANY APPARENT PROBLEMS WITH THE TIRES, BUT NONE WERE SEEN. TRIED DRIVING AGAIN, SAME PROBLEM OCCURRED AT ABOUT THE SAME SPEED (NOTICED IT AROUND 40 MPH THIS TIME). COULD NOT CONTINUE TRIP; HAD TO BE TOWED 50 MILES BACK TO INDIANAPOLIS. HAVE AN APPOINTMENT WITH THE DEALERSHIP TOMORROW (CLOSED FOR THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY TODAY). TRACTION CONTROL HAD BRIEFLY ENGAGED ABOUT 10 MINUTES EARLIER ON A SLICK AREA, BUT SEEMED TO BE AN APPROPRIATE RESPONSE, AND THE LIGHT WENT OFF. NOT SURE IF THIS IS RELATED. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10661142
20,000 miles · Nov 13, 2014
Steering
2013 ELANTRA GLS. CAR WANDERS ALL OVER THE PLACE WHEN YOU GO OVER ANY DIP OR CRACK IN THE ROAD. IT IS ALMOST LIKE YOU ARE DRIVING OVER PATCHES OF ICE WHEN YOU ARE ON DRY. ROADS. CAR HAS BECOME VERY SQUIRRELLY AND UNSAFE. HAVE READ NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS ON LINE OF SAME PROBLEMS FROM MANY OTHER ELANTRA OWNERS.A *TR
NHTSA ODI #10654875
30 miles · Oct 22, 2014
SteeringSuspension
UPON HITTING A BUMP OR UNEVEN ROADWAY CAR( 25 MPH AND ABOVE)FEELS LIKE IT LOOSES CONTACT WITH ROADWAY AND BECOMES UNCONTROLLABLE.BY FAR THE WORST SUSPENSION IN A VEHICLE I HAVE EVER OWNED.IF ON HIGHWAY YOU BETTER BE DOUBLE FISTED AND WHITE KNUCKLED HOLDING ON TO STEERING WHEEL BECAUSE CAR WILL BE ALL OVER THE PLACE IF YO…
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UPON HITTING A BUMP OR UNEVEN ROADWAY CAR( 25 MPH AND ABOVE)FEELS LIKE IT LOOSES CONTACT WITH ROADWAY AND BECOMES UNCONTROLLABLE.BY FAR THE WORST SUSPENSION IN A VEHICLE I HAVE EVER OWNED.IF ON HIGHWAY YOU BETTER BE DOUBLE FISTED AND WHITE KNUCKLED HOLDING ON TO STEERING WHEEL BECAUSE CAR WILL BE ALL OVER THE PLACE IF YOU HIT A RIDGE OR UNEVENNESS IN ROAD.THE CAR FEELS LIKE IT IS OUT OF CONTROL(VERY SCARY),SO MUCH SO THAT ANY PASSENGERS IN VEHICLE ALSO FEELS IT AND GRABS HOLD OF SOMETHING FOR STABILITY.I HAVE OWNED 3 NEW HYUNDAIS,THIS IS THE FIRST WITH THIS ISSUE.HAVE BEEN HOPING FOR A RECALL OR ADMISSION OF KNOWN PROBLEM BUT CANNOT WAIT ANY LONGER, VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION AND I REFUSE TO BE FIRST FATALITY BEFORE SOMETHING IS DONE ABOUT THIS.AT SOME POINT SOMEONE IS GOING TO OVER CORRECT WHEN THEY FEEL THIS ON HIGHWAY AND THAT WILL NOT END WELL.SO I NOW HAVE A VEHICLE THAT HAS 16,000 MILES AND IS NOT SAFE ENOUGH WHERE I WILL LET MY WIFE OR CHILDREN DRIVE IT.NO MORE HYUNDAIS FOR ME! *TR
NHTSA ODI #10649247
10,150 miles · Oct 13, 2014
Electronic Stability Control (esc)SteeringSuspension
MY 2013 HYUNDAI ELANTRA LIMITED HAS THE SWERVING PROBLEM. ANY TIME I'M ON AN UNEVEN PATCH OF ROAD OR A BUMP, IT'S LIKE I LOSE CONTROL OF MY CAR. YOU HAVE TO KEEP 2 HANDS ON THE WHEEL AT ALL TIMES TO TRY & KEEP SOME CONTROL. I DO NOT FEEL SAFE DOING MY WEEKLY DRIVE FROM DE TO NY!! *TR
NHTSA ODI #10644345
41,063 miles · Oct 9, 2014
Electronic Stability Control (esc)SteeringSuspension
I BOUGHT MY 2013 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT ON SEPTEMBER 12, 2014, IT HAD 41053 MILES ON IT. AS I LEFT THE DEALERSHIP IT WAS RAINING VERY HARD AND I NOTICED THAT IT WAS VERY DIFFICULT TO KEEP THE CAR IN MY LANE; MY CAR WAS PULLING TO THE RIGHT, NOT ONLY THAT, I HIT A BUMP OR MANHOLE AND THE BAD END OF THE CAR FISHTAILED SO BAD THAT I TH…
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I BOUGHT MY 2013 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT ON SEPTEMBER 12, 2014, IT HAD 41053 MILES ON IT. AS I LEFT THE DEALERSHIP IT WAS RAINING VERY HARD AND I NOTICED THAT IT WAS VERY DIFFICULT TO KEEP THE CAR IN MY LANE; MY CAR WAS PULLING TO THE RIGHT, NOT ONLY THAT, I HIT A BUMP OR MANHOLE AND THE BAD END OF THE CAR FISHTAILED SO BAD THAT I THOUGHT I WAS GOING TO HIT THE CAR THAT WAS IN THE RIGHT LANE. I WAS DRIVING A FEW DAYS LATER, I HIT ANOTHER POTHOLE AND THE CAR DID THAT SAME THING BUT THIS TIME THE ROADS WERE DRY. AT THIS POINT, I REALIZE THAT THE FIRST INCIDENT HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH THE ROADS BEING WET, IT WAS THE SUSPENSION ON THE CAR THAT'S CAUSES THE CAR TO PULL TO ONE SIDE AND FOR IT TO FISHTAIL THE WAY IT DOES. I DID SOME RESEARCH AND I REALIZED THAT HYUNDAI OWNERS HAVE COMPLAINED ABOUT THIS PROBLEM FOR QUITE SOMETIME BUT THE HYUNDAI CORPORATION FAILS TO ACKNOWLEDGE THIS AS A PROBLEM; THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS PROBLEM. TO BE HONEST, I'M A LITTLE FRIGHTEN TO DRIVE MY CAR; HYUNDAI CORPORATION NEEDS TO ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THERE IS A SUSPENSION PROBLEM WITH THE MAKE AND MODEL AND THEY NEED TO DO SOMETHING TO CORRECT THIS PROBLEM ASAP BEFORE SOMEONE LOSES THEIR LIFE. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10643620
Mileage unknown · Oct 4, 2014
SteeringSuspension
MY GIRLFRIEND PURCHASED A BRAND NEW HYUNDAI ELANTRA LAST YEAR AND SINCE PURCHASING THE VEHICLE IT HAS NOT DRIVEN PROPERLY. AT FIRST I ATTRIBUTED IT TO THE FACT THAT SHE HAD STUDDED TIRES ON THE VEHICLE DURING THE WINTER, HOWEVER THAT IS NOT THE CASE. THE VEHICLE DRIVES WHEREVER IT WANTS, BASICALLY. IT PULLS TO THE LEFT, IT PULLS…
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MY GIRLFRIEND PURCHASED A BRAND NEW HYUNDAI ELANTRA LAST YEAR AND SINCE PURCHASING THE VEHICLE IT HAS NOT DRIVEN PROPERLY. AT FIRST I ATTRIBUTED IT TO THE FACT THAT SHE HAD STUDDED TIRES ON THE VEHICLE DURING THE WINTER, HOWEVER THAT IS NOT THE CASE. THE VEHICLE DRIVES WHEREVER IT WANTS, BASICALLY. IT PULLS TO THE LEFT, IT PULLS TO THE RIGHT--ANYWHERE BUT STRAIGHT!! IT IS DIFFICULT TO STEER THE VEHICLE. I HAVE CONTACTED THE DEALERSHIP--GARVEY HYUNDAI, IN PLATTSBURGH, NY ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS. THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT CLEARLY DOESN'T HAVE AN HONEST ANSWER FOR ME AND BASICALLY TOLD ME THAT THE VEHICLE IS KNOWN FOR THAT, AND IT "TAKES SOME GETTING USED TO." HE ATTRIBUTES IT TO THE ELECTRICAL POWER STEERING, HOWEVER IT IS MY UNDERSTANDING THAT THIS HAS ABSOLUTELY NOTHING TO DO WITH IT AND THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT IS WELL AWARE OF THIS. THEY DID AN ALIGNMENT CHECK AND CONFIRMED THAT EVERYTHING IS "NORMAL." WELL EVERYTHING IS NOT "NORMAL." MY GIRLFRIEND IS 8 MONTHS PREGNANT AND IS DRIVING AROUND IN A VEHICLE THAT IS VERY UNSAFE. SAFETY IS SOMETHING THAT SHE EXPECTED, AND THAT THE DEALERSHIP ASSURED HER OF WHEN SHE MADE THE DECISION TO SPEND ALMOST $30,000 ON A VEHICLE. THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE AND I WILL NOT STOP UNTIL THE DEALERSHIP OR HYUNDAI MAKE THIS RIGHT. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10641408
18,960 miles · Sep 29, 2014
Electronic Stability Control (esc)Steering
THIS CAR WAS PURCHASED FOR MY WIFE ABOUT A MONTH AGO AND I DRIVE IT VERY LITTLE. WHEN I HAVE, THE CAR SEEMS TO WONDER REAL BAD, MUCH WORSE ON NEW ROADS. IT IS ALMOST LIKE IT FLOATS SIDE TO SIDE. THIS LAST WEEKEND IT KEPT DRIFTING BOTH WAYS AND WENT OFF THE ROAD SEVERAL TIMES. THE DEALER CLAIMED EVERY THING IS ALRIGHT, BUT I KNOW…
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THIS CAR WAS PURCHASED FOR MY WIFE ABOUT A MONTH AGO AND I DRIVE IT VERY LITTLE. WHEN I HAVE, THE CAR SEEMS TO WONDER REAL BAD, MUCH WORSE ON NEW ROADS. IT IS ALMOST LIKE IT FLOATS SIDE TO SIDE. THIS LAST WEEKEND IT KEPT DRIFTING BOTH WAYS AND WENT OFF THE ROAD SEVERAL TIMES. THE DEALER CLAIMED EVERY THING IS ALRIGHT, BUT I KNOW IT SHOULD NOT WANDER LIKE THIS. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10639732
Official recalls
4Sep 22, 2023
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2015 Elantra, Genesis Coupe, Sonata Hybrid, 2012-2015 Accent, Azera, Veloster, 2013-2015 Elantra Coupe, Santa Fe, 2014-2015 Equus, 2010-2012 Veracruz, 2010-2013 Tucson, 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell, and 2013 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module may leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2024 through October 11, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 251.
Nov 30, 2017
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Elantra sedan, coupe and GT vehicles. The brake pedal stopper pad can deteriorate allowing the brake light switch plunger to remain extended when the brake pedal is released. This will allow the brake lights to remain illuminated continuously. It can also allow the shift lever to be moved without depressing the brake pedal, or activate the engine management brake pedal override feature.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the brake light switch plunger does not retract as it should when the brake pedal is not being pressed, the brake lights may stay illuminated preventing accurate communication to following vehicles that the vehicle is slowing or stopping. Additionally, if the brake switch plunger is not retracted, then the transmission can be shifted out of PARK without depressing the brake pedal. Either condition increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake pedal stopper pad, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin February 8, 2018. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 170. This campaign expands recall 16V574.
Aug 2, 2016
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain model 2013 Elantra vehicles manufactured December 1, 2012, to April 30, 2013. The brake pedal stopper pad can deteriorate allowing the brake light switch plunger to remain extended when the brake pedal is released.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the brake light switch plunger does not retract as it should when the brake pedal is not being pressed, the brake lights may stay illuminated preventing accurate communication to following vehicles that the vehicle is slowing or stopping. Additionally, if the brake switch plunger is not retracted, then the transmission can be shifted out of PARK without depressing the brake pedal. Either condition increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake pedal stopper pad with an improved part, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on September 30, 2016. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 146.
Apr 1, 2013
Hyundai Motor Company is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Elantra vehicles manufactured from November 12, 2010, through March 5, 2013. A support bracket attached to the headliner may become displaced during a side curtain airbag deployment.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the headliner support bracket makes contact with an occupant during a crash, it may cause a laceration injury.
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will apply adhesive strips to the headliner, free of charge. The safety recall began during April 2013. Owners may contact Hyundai at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's recall campaign number is 109.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Structure
Hyundai Motor Company is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Elantra vehicles manufactured from November 12, 2010, through March 5, 2013. A support bracket attached to the headliner may become displaced during a side curtain airbag deployment.
Consequence: If the headliner support bracket makes contact with an occupant during a crash, it may cause a laceration injury.
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will apply adhesive strips to the headliner, free of charge. The safety recall began during April 2013. Owners may contact Hyundai at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's recall campaign number is 109.
Air Bags:side/window
Hyundai Motor Company is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Elantra vehicles manufactured from November 12, 2010, through March 5, 2013. A support bracket attached to the headliner may become displaced during a side curtain airbag deployment.
Consequence: If the headliner support bracket makes contact with an occupant during a crash, it may cause a laceration injury.
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will apply adhesive strips to the headliner, free of charge. The safety recall began during April 2013. Owners may contact Hyundai at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's recall campaign number is 109.
Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗
NHTSA investigations
4AQ23002 · Hyundai And Kia Abs Module Fires
Opened Nov 17, 2023 · No close date supplied
Status: open (inferred from source dates) · Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received eight Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) and eight Kia America, Inc. (Kia) Part 573 Recall Reports between 2016 and 2023. The combined 16 safety recalls all involve the antilock braking system (ABS) modules or Hydraulic Electronic Control Units (HECU) manufactured by the equipment supplier Mando. The Part 573 Recall Reports contain varying defect descriptions and differing remedy descriptions for the same or similar equipment supplied by Mando. Safety recalls included in this Audit Query (AQ) review include: Hyundai recalls 20V-520, 20V-543, 21V-161, 21V-160, 21V-303, 22V-056, 22V-810, and 23V-651. Kia recalls 16V-815, 20V-518, 20V-519, 21V-137, 21V-331, 22V-051, 22V-800, and 23V-652 The purpose of this AQ is to evaluate the timeliness and scoping of Hyundai and Kia’s defect decision making and adherence with reporting requirements; and understand the varying defect descriptions and remedies between these recalls.
EA21003 · Engine Fires
Opened Dec 22, 2021 · Closed Feb 5, 2024
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Engine
On March 29, 2019, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened two Preliminary Evaluations (PE19-003 on Hyundai and PE19-004 on Kia) to broadly investigate incidents of non-crash fires (regardless of origin or operational status of the vehicle) on various model year Hyundai and Kia vehicles. During the PE investigations, Hyundai and Kia issued several recalls to address vehicle fires, including those due to engine failures involving various engine types. The remedies for the engine failure recalls typically involve engine inspection (to detect existing damage), and if necessary, engine replacement. Additionally, both manufacturers have been installing an engine control software modification known as Knock Sensor Detection Software (KSDS) which is intended to detect impending engine failure, alert the driver, and limit engine power (to lessen likelihood of engine failure).KSDS is being installed under recalls and non-safety field actions, and both companies have extended limited engine warranties (see recall files). On December 22, 2021, ODI upgraded PE19-003 and PE19-004 to this Engineering Analysis (EA21-003, covering both Hyundai and Kia) to evaluate the scope of the prior recalls related to engine failures/fires and the efficacy of the recall remedies for the recalls, as well as the long-term viability of related programs and non-safety field actions being conducted by Hyundai and Kia. The former issue involved approximately 550,000 MY 2013 Hyundai Elantra, MY 2011 Kia Sorento, and MY 2012-2015 Kia Rio. The latter issue involved approximately 2.5 million recalled vehicles, which have been identified as displaying potential remedy concerns: Hyundai recalls 15V-568, 17V-226, 20V-746, and 21V-727; and Kia recalls 17V-224, 19V-120, 20V-750, and 21V-844. Regarding the recall scope issue, among all of the scope vehicles identified at EA opening, ODI found only the MY 2011 Kia Sorento vehicles equipped with both the Theta II 2.4L 4-cylinder Multi-Point Injection (MPI) and the Lambda II 3.5L 6-cylinder MPI engines experienced relatively high rates of reported fires. In December 2023, Kia issued recall 23V-877 that will cover about 80,000 MY 2011 Kia Sorento vehicles equipped with the Theta II 2.4L MPI engines. The remedy will involve an inspection, and if necessary, a replacement of the engine, as well as the installation of KSDS. It should be noted that in 2021 these vehicles were included in a KSDS product improvement campaign with warranty extension. For the MY 2011 Sorento vehicles equipped with the Lambda II 3.5L engines, ODI believes that future engine failures/fires involving these vehicles will likely be due to a lax in adhering to the proper or scheduled engine maintenance (regular engine oil changes), rather than a design or manufacturing engine issue. Regarding the issue of the efficacy of the recall remedies, ODI found the majority of the recalled Hyundai and Kia vehicles, by model, experienced lower reported fire rates after the remedies were applied. Furthermore, ODI found that for most vehicles that did not receive the recall remedies, by model, experienced relatively high fire rates. To address this problem, Hyundai informed ODI in December 2023, that it will renotify all of its owners covered by the Hyundai recalls of engine failures/fires every 8 months for the next 3 years. In December 2023, Kia stated that it will renotify the majority of its owners every 8 months for the next 3 years.Several previously recalled Kia models are excluded from the renotification due to their lower reported rates of engine fires. Overall, the renotification actions will help to increase the recall completion rates, thus reduce the frequency of engine fires in the future. In view of the recall action being taken by Kia and renotification actions being taken by both Kia and Hyundai, ODI is closing this Engineering Analysis. Also, both companies have been released from the 2020-iniated Consent Orders (Kia since November 2022 and Hyundai since November 2023). The agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
DP21003 · Throttle Control System Vulnerabilities
Opened Nov 12, 2021 · Closed Jun 20, 2023
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Vehicle Speed Control:throttle
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received a petition letter dated October 10, 2021, requesting an investigation of possible defects in the electronic throttle control (ETC) system on certain Kia vehicles resulting in the opening of DP21-003. Accordingly, Model Year (MY) 2005-2016 Kia Optima/K5, MY 2006-2015 Kia Sorento, MY 2007-2016 Hyundai Elantra, MY 2007-2016 Hyundai Santa Fe, MY 2006-2015 Hyundai Sonatas are all part of the subject population. The petition was originally filed as a Vehicle Owner Questionnaire that can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under reference (ODI) number 11439675.On November 12, 2021, ODI opened Defect Petition DP21-003 to evaluate the petitioner?s request. ODI performed trend analyses of the VOQs related to vehicle speed control issues for all the subject vehicles and found that none of the 52 Model/Model Year Hyundai/Kia vehicles demonstrated any actionable trend that warranted an investigation.Petitioners submitted 1119 VOQs and non-VOQ cases in which sudden uncommanded acceleration (SUA) or loss of motive power (LOMP) incidents were alleged.For the 1119 reports, 220 were incidents involving crashes, from which 69 subject Hyundai-Kia vehicles were inspected by Hyundai/Kia dealer technicians, Hyundai/Kia engineers, and/or third-party representatives.ODI found the inspections identified no vehicle defects related to the ETC system.Of the 220 crash-involved reports, 13 Event Data Recorder (EDR) records were downloaded successfully and 11 of those indicated driver error: (i.e.) pedal misapplication.A condition where the accelerator pedal is mistakenly applied instead of the brake pedal when the driver wants to stop the vehicle.In addition, ODI reviewed a scientific journal paper published in Forensic Science International in 2016 by Mr. Park et al ., as well as related test videos. ODI does not believe there is any evidence of uncontrollable SUA occurrences in any of the tests reviewed. NHTSA's Office of Vehicle Safety Compliance (OVSC) reviewed the allegations regarding the potential noncompliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 124.Based on the information provided, the Agency concludes there is insufficient information for us to determine if a possible non-compliance exists.Finally, both Hyundai and Kia informed ODI that all their vehicles manufactured after 2012 were equipped with an ETC management system, in which the engine speed will go to idle when the system sees signals from both the brake pedal and accelerator pedal at the same time; this is commonly known as the brake-throttle override system.After thoroughly assessing the material submitted by the petitioner, information already in NHTSA's possession, information submitted by Hyundai and Kia in response to an Information Request letter, and the potential risks to safety implicated by the petitioner's allegation, NHTSA does not believe that a formal investigation is warranted. After full consideration of appropriate factors, the petition is denied. A Federal Register Notice (FRN) further detailing NHTSA?s reasons for denial of the petition will be published.
EA12008 · Headliner Bracket Detachment
Opened Sep 13, 2012 · Closed Dec 9, 2013
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Air Bags:side/window; Structure:body:roof And Pillars; Unknown Or Other
In March 2013, Hyundai issued a safety recall to reinforce the attachment of the metal support brackets to the headliner assembly in approximately 186,254 model year 2011-2013 Hyundai Elantra vehicles built in Korea and sold in the U.S. (see NHTSA recall 13V-115 for more information).The recall covers vehicles built up to March 5, 2013.After that date, Hyundai began using headliners with reinforced bracket attachments in the Korea-built Elantra vehicles.ODI has opened a Recall Query (RQ13-004) to investigate model year 2009-2012 Hyundai Elantra Touring vehicles.During EA12-008, ODI found these vehicles are equipped with a support bracket design and layout similar to that in the above-mentioned Elantra vehicles.Also, the headliner manufacturing processes used were similar for both models.Like the Elantra vehicles built before the recall, the Elantra Touring model headliner does not contain reinforced bracket attachments.This Engineering Analysis is closed.See attached report for additional information.The ODI report cited above can be reviewed online at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification number: 10457696
Additional source detail variants (3)
Air Bags:side/window
In March 2013, Hyundai issued a safety recall to reinforce the attachment of the metal support brackets to the headliner assembly in approximately 186,254 model year 2011-2013 Hyundai Elantra vehicles built in Korea and sold in the U.S. (see NHTSA recall 13V-115 for more information).The recall covers vehicles built up to March 5, 2013.After that date, Hyundai began using headliners with reinforced bracket attachments in the Korea-built Elantra vehicles.ODI has opened a Recall Query (RQ13-004) to investigate model year 2009-2012 Hyundai Elantra Touring vehicles.During EA12-008, ODI found these vehicles are equipped with a support bracket design and layout similar to that in the above-mentioned Elantra vehicles.Also, the headliner manufacturing processes used were similar for both models.Like the Elantra vehicles built before the recall, the Elantra Touring model headliner does not contain reinforced bracket attachments.This Engineering Analysis is closed.See attached report for additional information.The ODI report cited above can be reviewed online at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification number: 10457696
Structure:body:roof And Pillars
In March 2013, Hyundai issued a safety recall to reinforce the attachment of the metal support brackets to the headliner assembly in approximately 186,254 model year 2011-2013 Hyundai Elantra vehicles built in Korea and sold in the U.S. (see NHTSA recall 13V-115 for more information).The recall covers vehicles built up to March 5, 2013.After that date, Hyundai began using headliners with reinforced bracket attachments in the Korea-built Elantra vehicles.ODI has opened a Recall Query (RQ13-004) to investigate model year 2009-2012 Hyundai Elantra Touring vehicles.During EA12-008, ODI found these vehicles are equipped with a support bracket design and layout similar to that in the above-mentioned Elantra vehicles.Also, the headliner manufacturing processes used were similar for both models.Like the Elantra vehicles built before the recall, the Elantra Touring model headliner does not contain reinforced bracket attachments.This Engineering Analysis is closed.See attached report for additional information.The ODI report cited above can be reviewed online at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification number: 10457696
Unknown Or Other
In March 2013, Hyundai issued a safety recall to reinforce the attachment of the metal support brackets to the headliner assembly in approximately 186,254 model year 2011-2013 Hyundai Elantra vehicles built in Korea and sold in the U.S. (see NHTSA recall 13V-115 for more information).The recall covers vehicles built up to March 5, 2013.After that date, Hyundai began using headliners with reinforced bracket attachments in the Korea-built Elantra vehicles.ODI has opened a Recall Query (RQ13-004) to investigate model year 2009-2012 Hyundai Elantra Touring vehicles.During EA12-008, ODI found these vehicles are equipped with a support bracket design and layout similar to that in the above-mentioned Elantra vehicles.Also, the headliner manufacturing processes used were similar for both models.Like the Elantra vehicles built before the recall, the Elantra Touring model headliner does not contain reinforced bracket attachments.This Engineering Analysis is closed.See attached report for additional information.The ODI report cited above can be reviewed online at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification number: 10457696