Hyundai recalls 272,000 cars due to potential electric power outlets overheating in specific models. This problem could lead to a fire, albeit extremely rare.
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Hyundai Recall
A recall got recently announced for 272,000 cars affecting 2011 and 2012 Hyundai Accent, Elantra, Sonata Hybrid, and Veloster’s optioned with tire mobility kits. This information is provided to us by masslive.com where they got information directly from Hyundai. Additional information provided by ABC News and Consumer Reports.
The Vehicle mentioned that have the tire mobility kits utilize a built-in air compressor powered by the car’s 12-volt accessory outlet. This outlet contains a thermal fuse, shutting off the port’s electricity to stop overheating.
The issue occurs because certain outlets were not installed correctly. This issue can disable the thermal fuse, leading to the port potentially overheating when using the compressor for an extended period.
Reports of Fire
ABC News reports Hyundai fielding nine overall reports of fires; of these, seven occurred when owners were using the compressor. Hyundai says they are not aware of any accidents or injuries, which is strange because ABC reports otherwise. I don’t understand how one can deny a whole nine fires.
Ambiguous reporting aside, if you’re an owner of a Hyundai vehicle, please refrain from using the compressor if your car came with one. Consumer Reports says the official recall should get released on August 28, 2020.
Recall Perceptions
When recalls as this occurs, it is never good press for any manufacturer. It is mainly a bad look for either Hyundai or Kia because they are still on the come up for many as the past still plagues Hyundai’s current perception.
Perceptions aside, a potential fire is no joke, and it certainly is a terrible situation for any car owner to be in, so it is never something to downplay. But one thing should be understood; all cars and companies should get judged equally. Just about all the vehicles you worship have caught on fire or was recalled due to a fire risk from Ferrari, Porsche, and just recently, BMW and Mercedes.
Nobody cares, and nobody makes a fuss about it; in fact, I hardly even hear complaints from owners or even the news. Everyone still hangs pictures of these cars on their walls and pretend their eyes and ears don’t work. Again, fire risks are no joke and should get handled accordingly, I’m sure the companies I have mentioned dealt with the issues flawlessly. But, when Hyundai or Kia come across any form of a fire threat, it truly tarnishes the track record the companies set up as being a quality vehicle in the eyes of the consumer. The other brands are well established, and people don’t care anymore.
All eyes are certainly on Hyundai and Kia. I’m sure many want the Korean duo to win because they are putting out attractive, high-quality products at an excellent price, obtainable to real people. I’m sure the problem will get handled accordingly, but in the meantime, please exercise caution if you are an owner with the tire mobility kit option.
Read about Hyundai's latest J.D. Power Awards here.
Kevin Meyn is an automotive journalist for Torque News concentrating on Hyundai content. Kevin is the founder of Exhaust Sports Auto Youtube channel, where he does professional car reviews on new and used vehicles. Through the use of various resources and extended Automotive expertise, Kevin documents the latest in automotive news revolving around Hyundai. Kevin graduated from NC State University studying Supply Chain Management but has had a passion for cars since he was a child. Follow Kevin on Twitter and Instagram @exhaustsports.
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