Hyundai Recalls 200K Elantras Over Power Steering Problem
Hyundai has issued a safety recall over a flaw in the power steering systems of more than 200,000 vehicles.
The recall affects Hyundai Elantra sedans from model years 2008 to 2010, along with Elantra touring hatchbacks from model years 2009 to 2010.
What do consumers need to know about this recall?
Faulty Power Steering Controls
The power steering system at issue in the recall makes it easier to move the steering wheel. An error in a control unit component causes the system to disable power steering assistance.
If a malfunction occurs, drivers will see a warning light and may feel that they have to work harder to maintain control of the wheel. The issue is easily reset by restarting the car. In a report filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Hyundai asserts that the error does not drastically affect drivers' ability to maintain steering control manually.
While Hyundai first discovered the flaw in 2010, the company believed a safety recall was not necessary. The amount of effort required to continue steering the vehicle in the event of a malfunction was well within compliance standards, the company said.
But since automakers and NHTSA have recently been criticized for not issuing safety recalls, Hyundai has decided to voluntarily recall the vehicles to maintain driver safety.
Does Your Car Need to Be Fixed?
Similar to other safety recalls, Hyundai says it will contact owners of affected vehicles. The company will test the vehicles for defects and make the necessary repairs at no cost to the consumer.
Car owners can also use NHTSA's free online tool to determine whether their vehicle is affected by this, or any other, automotive recall.
If you were injured because of a mechanical defect in a recalled vehicle, a products liability lawyer can help explore your options.
Related Resources:
- Browse Products Liability Lawyers by Location (FindLaw)
- Hyundai recalls more than 200,000 Elantras over steering problem (Reuters)
- Can I Sue After a Recall? (FindLaw's Injured)
- How Do Car Recalls Work? (FindLaw's Injured)