Hyundai Motor America is issuing a voluntary recall of 26,169 Velosters. The affected units were reportedly built between July 4, 2011, and September 27, 2013. The recall is over concerns that an electrical short could result in a fire.
The company stated a high-conductive liquid could enter the Reverse Park Aid Sensor. The sealing of the printer circuit board within the RPAS was then said to be insufficient.
Water entering the RPAS system could result in an electrical short circuit. It could lead to a fire. It could also result in the vehicle’s rear parking assist feature stalling. The transmission could become stuck in Park.
An investigation into the problem started in July 2022. It was after reports of fires involving 2012 and 2013 Velosters. The fires were reportedly caused by the reverse park aid sensors.
The investigation was then expanded in February this year. It now included the 2012 to 2017 models. Engineers were able to determine the cause of the issue. It’s reportedly caused by a change in the sensor’s potting compound. Hyundai first used a silicon primer mix. This was later changed to butadiene.
Documents filed with the NHTSA showed there are already five reports of fires due to this issue. But there are no confirmed incidents of injuries or crashes related to the problem.
What’s the Next Step?
Vehicle owners are now advised to head to their nearest Hyundai dealership. If necessary, dealers will replace the RPAS sensor and fuse. This service is free of charge. Hyundai is set to send owners a notification letter. Owners can expect these mailed no later than April 29, 2023.
Car owners can also get in touch with the company’s customer service at (855) 371-9460. The number for this particular recall is 242. The NHTSA’s campaign number for the Hyundai Veloster is 23V-132.