Hyundai is expanding the recall it recently issued for the Tucson SUV over fire risks that may be caused by issues with the ABS brakes’ hydraulic electronic unit (ECU).
First issued in September last year, the recall affected 180,000 units of the Tucson from the 2019-2021 model years. In additional documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Hyundai is reportedly including 427,000 more units of the vehicle, this time including those from 2016-2018. This brings the total of Hyundai Tucson SUVs recalled to 652,000.
Similar to the previous recall, the SUVs were found to be equipped with a corroding ABS brake hydraulic electronic control unit in the engine compartment. Upon prolonged exposure to heat and humidity, the defect may lead to a burning odor inside the vehicle. It is also possible for the ABS light to illuminate, suggesting a problem in the ECU.
Hyundai said it has received reports of fires related to the problem, but did not divulge the exact number of cases. However, the automaker clarified that no injuries have been reported due to these incidents. Owners of the affected Tucson SUVs are advised to park their vehicles “away from structures.”
To fix the problem, Hyundai will install a lower-amperage fuse and update the software for the electronic stability control system. Owners are encouraged to bring their vehicles to a dealer to have their software updated and the new fuse installed. Hyundai says it will begin notifying customers in February.
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