In the spring of 2017, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) launched an investigation into consumer complaints regarding several issues with the engines of Hyundai vehicles. These problems include excessive noise, engine seizure, and fires all being caused by oil leaks.
In March, Trucks.com reported that automaker Hyundai has announced it’s recalling approximately 125,000 of its Tucson SUV’s for model years 2011 -2013.
The recall is to address potential oil leaks that the NHTSA believes are of chief concern. This comes after a previous recall which included the company’s 2011-2014 Sonata and 2013-2014 Santa Fe Sport models. Federal safety regulators allege the engines could stall or even seize while operating at high speeds, causing a fire to start in the engine compartment.
Of concern include vehicles for the specified model years assembled in the company’s Ulsan Plant in South Korea. Hyundai insists that so far there have been no reports of any crashes relating to the NHTSA’s concerns. The company estimates that less than 1 percent of vehicles sold will have the potential oil pan problem.
Owners of the recalled cars are asked to be on the lookout for oil spotting beneath the vehicle, reduced power, or the smell of burning oil or smoke coming from the engine. The check engine light could also illuminate on the dashboard of the SUV’s, warning drivers of a potential issue.
So far, Hyundai has not determined the underlying cause of the fires or leaks within the vehicles. Owners of the Tucson SUV’s are encouraged to check with their Hyundai dealer to have their vehicle repaired free of charge.
