The ability to steer a moving motor vehicle without plowing into oncoming traffic is required for safe driving. Consumer Reports indicates that the Hyundai Sonata recall that has emerged of late was based on a noted lack of such control. Beginning in the month of Oct, Hyundai will recall 144,000 Sonatas due to steering column issues. Mechanical defect or breakdown can lead to a lack of steering control, which is extremely dangerous.
Faulty joints resulted in Sonata recall
Whether it’s defective parts, errant assemblage or simply nuts that weren’t properly tightened in the factory, it is known the dates in question for the Sonata are from Dec. 11, 2009 and September 10, 2010. 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 can be reached at 800-633-5151.
Both Hyundai and Kia have experienced steering trouble
The English-language version of the Chosun Ilbo newspaper most recently reported that complaints over steering within the Hyundai Sonata sedan and Kia Soul multipurpose vehicle have sparked investigation by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. One complaint was filed over steering issues in the Kia Soul, however that consumer posted a video about it on YouTube, which drew major attention. Speculation on the part of Chosun Ilbo is the United States government has it in for Asian automakers ever since Toyota Motors went before Congress, however such allegations have not been proven.
The Hyundai Sonata and Kia Soul are the Korean automaker’s flagship models. Forty-six percent of Hyundai’s United States of America sales from Jan. via July 2010 were the Sonata (108,000 units). Eight thousand Kia Souls came to the United States in July alone, writes Chosun Ilbo. Sales projections indicate that over 10,000 Souls could be sold per month in the second half of 2010.
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
