Automobile Recall Warning: Hyundai And Kia
Brian O Sutter
Recalls
After a massive recall of 1.7 million vehicles in 2015, Kia and Hyundai owners are facing a new issue. It turns out the fix that Hyundai and Kia implemented for the recall has created a new round of problems for car owners. After multiple complaints, an investigation from the Nation Highway Traffic And Safety Administration (NHTSA), and six reports of fire, Kia and Hyundai are recalling these vehicles again.Why Are They Being Recalled?
Hyundai and Kia are recalling vehicles because the fix they issued during the 2015 recall presents a fire risk. The vehicles were initially recalled because manufacturing debris restricted the oil flow to connecting rod bearings. This caused the bearings in 2 and 2.4-liter four-cylinder engines to wear down and sometimes fail. This issue also put drivers at risk of engine fire. During this recall, however, some of the engine replacements were not done properly by dealers around the country. They have found that in some cases the high pressure fuel pipe was damaged, misaligned, or improperly tightened. This may lead to a fuel leak on the engine causing fires.
What Vehicles Are Being Recalled?
After a lengthy investigation through the NHTSA that has been halted by the government shutdown, Kia and Hyundai have issued a manufacturer’s warning. This warning applies to the following vehicles:
● 2011-2014 Kia Optima
● 2012-2014 Kia Sorento
● 2011-2013 Kia Sportage
● 2011-2014 Hyundai Sonata
● 2013-2014 Hyundai Santa Fe
With the government shutdown, the company also decided to do a product improvement campaign that will cover 3.7 million vehicles. Though not a complete recall, this campaign will offer software updates that will alert drivers of potential failures. This campaign will include:
● 2011-2018 Hyundai Sonatas
● 2013-2018 Hyundai Santa Fe
● 2011-2018 Kia Optima
● 2012-2018 Kia Sorento
● 2011-2018 Kia Sportage
Though with the NHTSA unable to review the campaign with the shutdown, it remains to be seen if this will be enough to protect consumers.
How Do I know If My Vehicle Is Being Recalled?
Kia and Hyundai will issue letters to car owners across the country notifying them of the recall and product improvement campaigns. With the NHTSA website not up-to-date, consumers can go directly to the recall page of the Kia website found here. They can also search the recall page of the Hyundai website here. If you are planning on looking up your vehicle, have your vin number handy. It is how you will do the search.
What Should I Do If My Vehicle Has Been Recalled?
During a recall, the manufacturer will instruct consumers on how get their vehicle repaired. Under law, manufacturers are legally responsible for providing the repairs free of charge. These repairs will typically be done at your local dealership.
When To Contact A Lawyer
Recalls are pretty standard and don’t typically require legal assistance. However, there are two cases where you should hire an attorney. First, is when you have experienced an issue as a result of a manufacturer’s defect. For example, if your Kia or Hyundai caught on fire before they issued a recall, you may have a case for product liability. Secondly, is after any vehicle accident. There are many times when a manufacturing defect is the cause of an accident, but the drivers will take the blame. A good attorney will investigate your auto accident and find the true cause of the crash, including malfunctioning vehicles.
At All Injuries Law Firm, we specialize in auto accidents and have a team of top notch investigators who will find the real cause of your accident. So if you’ve been in a car wreck, give us a call at 941-625-HURT to learn more how we can help you. Also, make sure to follow our blog for more updates on current recalls.