We all know Hyundai has pulled a 180-degree turn in brand image over the past few years, but alas, no one (including Ferrari) is immune to the threat of recalls. The NHTSA has recently begun a preliminary investigation of the 2011 Hyundai Sonata for an issue with the steering system. Approximately 16,300 of the Alabama-built units could be affected, although there have been no official complaints, injuries, or accidents yet.
According to the NHTSA, "the intermediate steering shaft assembly upper universal joint" can fully detach or a "cross-threaded pinch bolt" could strip upper universal joint connection threads; both these issues could lead to a loss of, or faulty, steering.
Regulators also mentioned the steering problem could lead to a "compromised brake system", a case in which the shaft drops out and could hinder brake application.
Thankfully, this is being caught and handled early on. The last thing Hyundai needs is a major safety hiccup as it expands its range into Lexus territory and hopes to bring out a new Azera in 2012.
By Phil Alex
