National

Fire risk sparks recall of Hyundai cars

By AAP Newswire

Dec 9, 2022

Hyundai sign at car yard — The recall notice says the defect could result in a fire even when the vehicle is turned off. -AAP Image

Some 19,500 Hyundai cars have been recalled over concerns they may spontaneously ignite if moisture reaches an internal component.

Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content

The recall affects Hyundai ix35 (EL) cars, built from 2014 to 2015, after a manufacturing defect was found in the circuit board in the Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS).

The defect appears to be the same found in 200,000 other Hyundai models built between 2006 and 2021.

The defect could result in a vehicle fire "even when the vehicle is turned off", the recall notice said.

"Affected vehicles should be parked in an open space and away from flammable materials and structures, i.e. not in a garage," the notice said.

"If your vehicle displays an engine warning light, please stop driving and contact your local Hyundai dealer."

Bannister Law on Friday said the ABS control module defect posing a possible fire risk had resulted in nearly 300,000 Hyundai and Kia models being recalled across Australia.

They urged affected owners to register for their class action against the car makers.