Hyundai has announced a recall impacting 128,948 vehicles in the United States.
According to the South Korean car manufacturer, 2015-2016 Veloster, 2012 Santa Fe, 2011-2013 Sonata Hybrid, and 2016 Sonata Hybrid vehicles have connecting rod bearings that can wear prematurely.
The recall notice reveals that a manufacturing issue is to blame for the potentially faulty connecting rod bearings. If the rod bearing fails, the connecting rod and piston could puncture the engine block and dump hot oil onto various components in the engine bay, increasing the risk of a fire. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says the issue was caused by machining debris in the manufacturing process that may restrict oil flow.
Read Also: Hyundai Drops Pricing On Facelifted 2021 Santa Fe, Starts From $28,025
The issue affects the aforementioned vehicles fitted with 1.6-liter, 2.0-liter and 2.4-liter engines. Hyundai says owners of said vehicles may hear strange knocking sounds from the engine and see various warning lights on the dashboard.
Hyundai Velosters involved in the recall were produced from May 26, 2014 through to July 13, 2016 while Santa Fes were built between January 10, 2012 and July 3, 2012, Sonatas built between June 2, 2010 through December 17, 2013, and newer Sonatas manufactured February 25, 2015 through April 25, 2016.
Hyundai will notify owners of affected vehicles and conduct an engine inspection test to look for any bearing damage. If the bearing is damaged, an new engine will be fitted at no cost to the owner. All impacted vehicles will also receive an enhanced engine control software update with a Knock Sensor Detection System which continuously monitors engine vibrations for unusual patterns that could indicate an abnormal condition with the engine.
