Hyundai Issues Two Recalls for Hyundai Elantra
By Rachel Smith
Mar 22, 2011
Hyundai has issued two recalls for the Hyundai Elantra. The first applies to Elantra models manufactured from July 14, 2006 through November 1, 2008. The recall is because of an electrical problem that could cause the front passenger airbag to deploy when it shouldn’t.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) explains, “The front passenger seats in the vehicles contain a weight sensor designed to deactivate the right frontal airbag when occupants of certain weights occupy the seat. The electrical connector for the weight sensor is located under the center console, between the front seats. Under certain circumstances the connector could become contaminated and malfunction such that the front passenger airbag will deploy regardless of the weight of the occupant.” Approximately 189,000 Elantras are included in this recall.
The second recall applies to Elantras manufactured from July 14, 2006 to August 29, 2007. These vehicles may have a sensor issue that could cause the driver’s airbag to deploy at a pressure that is too high, thus increasing the likelihood injury. “The sensor relays how far away the seat is from the airbag, allowing for the appropriate amount of pressure to inflate the airbag safely in the event of a crash,” says Kicking Tires. If the senor malfunctions, it could deploy the airbag at a higher pressure than is needed, given the distance between the driver’s seat and the wheel.
So far, there are no reports of accidents or injuries for either recall. Hyundai should begin the recalls next month, and at that time, dealers will inspect the airbag systems and replace faulty components for free. If you have questions or concerns, you may contact Hyundai at 1-800-633-5151 or reach NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to
Home | Safercar -- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
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