Traffic safety agency investigates Hyundai and Kia for massive recalls

Hyundai and Kia are under investigation by traffic safety officials due to massive recalls involving brake fluid leaks.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced on November 20 that it has opened an investigation into several years of recalls by Hyundai and Kia. These recalls are related to brake fluid leaks that could potentially lead to fires.

The NHTSA stated it is initiating an audit query to evaluate the timeliness of Hyundai and Kia’s decisions regarding these defects, their adherence to reporting requirements, and to understand the differences in defect descriptions and remedies between these recalls.

The agency will also determine the specifics of each recall and assess whether Hyundai and Kia’s proposed remedies were adequate.

Since 2016, Hyundai and Kia have issued a total of 16 recalls related to brake fluid leaks, involving approximately 6.4 million vehicles.

According to Hyundai and Kia, the recalls were necessary because an electrical short, caused by the brake fluid leak, could potentially result in an engine component fire, whether the vehicle is parked or in motion.

In response to the recall, the companies have advised vehicle owners to park their cars outside and away from structures until the necessary repairs are completed.

BY JEONGIL RYU, JUNHAN PARK    [ryu.jeongil@koreadaily.com]