Toyota and Hyundai to Recall Vehicles for Safety Defects
Toyota and Hyundai to Recall Vehicles for Safety Defects
Toyota and Hyundai have issued vehicle defect recalls for 110,000 trucks and SUVs combined including the 2018 Toyota Tundra and Sequoia and the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport. According to an Associated Press news report, Hyundai said in its announcement that some of the Santa Fe vehicles are at risk for the steering wheel breaking away from the steering column. About 43,900 vehicles are included in Hyundai’s recall.
Toyota issued a recall for about 64,900 Tundra and Sequoia vehicles because they are at risk for having their electronic stability control systems shutting down suddenly and unexpectedly. Both automakers will notify affected vehicle owners beginning in March. If necessary, both Toyota and Hyundai will perform the repairs at no cost to consumers. For more information about these auto recalls, visit safercar.gov.
Dangerous Vehicle Defects
Based on this report, while the Hyundai vehicles under the recall have defective steering wheels that could break away from the steering column, the Toyota vehicles have an issue where the electronic stability control systems might suddenly fail. These are both dangerous auto defects that could result in major injuries or even deaths. For example, with faulty steering wheels, there is the danger of drivers losing control of their vehicles.
On the other hand, when an electronic stability control (ESC) system fails suddenly, the occupants of the vehicle are without protection in a situation when loss of vehicle control occurs. ESC is an important safety feature, a computerized technology that improves a vehicle’s stability by detecting and reducing loss of traction or skidding. When ESC detects loss of steering control, it automatically applies the brakes to help steer the vehicle in the intended direction. Braking is automatically applied to wheels individually. ESC helps minimize a vehicle’s loss of control thereby helping prevent catastrophic crashes.
Auto Product Liability Issues
If you suspect you own a vehicle that has been recalled, it would be a good idea to go on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) website to check and confirm if your vehicle is involved. If that’s the case, take it to a dealer right away to get it repaired. If you or a loved one has been injured as the result of an auto defect, you may be eligible to receive compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost income and pain and suffering. An experienced product defect lawyer will be able to advise you regarding your legal rights and options.
