Hyundai Expands Engine Recall
Hyundai Motor America is recalling more than half a million vehicles after learning of a bearing issue that can cause premature wear within the engine.
According to a safety report Hyundai filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) on March 31, 2017, the company is recalling 572,000 vehicles that may have bearing issues. Vehicles included in this recall are the 2013-2014 Hyundai Sonata and 2013-2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport.
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The engines in question may contain residual debris from factory machining operations, possibly restricting oil flow to the main bearings. This could lead to premature bearing wear. Over time, the bearing may fail and the vehicle’s engine could shut down in motion.
The recall stems for a previous recall issued in September 2015 for model year 2011 and 2012 Hyundai Sonata vehicles manufactured at Hyundai’s Montgomery, Alabama plant. At the time of that recall, Hyundai initiated a warranty extension for the engine short block assembly for all 2011-2014 Hyundai Sonatas. The companies continued to monitor engine-related warranty claims, noting certain instances when drivers reported stalling events. Some of the drivers reported these stalling events occurring at high speeds.
Hyundai said a worn connecting rod bearing will produce a cyclic knocking noise from the engine, alerting drivers to an issue. It could also cause the oil pressure lamp or check engine light to turn on.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine, replacing the engine short block, as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 19, 2017. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai’s number for this recall is 162. Concerned Hyundai owners can also visit the NHTSA’s website, and enter their VIN to see if their vehicle is included in any recalls.
The manufacturer of your vehicle is legally required to fix any recalled problems for free. If the dealership refuses to fix the part or tries to charge you for the repair, contact the manufacturer immediately. The Highway Safety Act of 1970, which created the NHTSA, requires car manufacturers to pay for the recall and replacement of a defective part.
If the manufacturer fails to repair, replace, repurchase, or provide the loss value of your recalled vehicle, they are violating the warranty and a lawyer may be able to help you. Lemon law attorneys help their clients by dealing directly with the manufacturer on the clients’ behalf, working to promptly resolve the issue and get their clients back on the road. Thanks to the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, attorneys can seek their fees directly from the manufacturer, meaning a client can obtain legal counsel without having to pay attorneys’ fees directly out of pocket.