Sunita Somvanshi
Hyundai has issued an urgent recall for almost 9,000 ix35 vehicles manufactured between 2012 and 2013 due to a serious fire hazard. The recall stems from a manufacturing defect where brake fluid can leak into the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) control module, potentially causing an electrical short circuit that could trigger an engine compartment fire—whether the vehicle is parked or being driven.
The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts formally issued the recall notice, emphasizing the serious nature of this safety concern. According to a spokesperson from the regulatory body, “A vehicle fire could increase the risk of an accident causing serious injury or death to vehicle occupants, other road users, bystanders or damage to property.”
Critical Safety Instructions for Vehicle Owners
Hyundai is advising owners of affected vehicles to take immediate precautions:
“Affected vehicles should be parked in an open space and away from flammable materials and structures, i.e., not in a garage until the rectification is carried away,” states the official Hyundai Australia recall notice.
Owners are also warned to be vigilant about warning signs. “If your vehicle displays an engine warning light, please stop driving and contact your local Hyundai dealer,” the notice continues.
This isn’t the first time Hyundai has faced such issues. In recent years, similar recalls have been issued for other models including the Veloster and Tucson, as mentioned in one of the source articles.
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Legal Action Already Underway
The severity of the defect has already prompted legal action. Bannister Law has begun urging affected owners to register for a class action against Hyundai and Kia due to the ABS control module defect.
How to Check if Your Vehicle is Affected
A total of 8,794 vehicles manufactured between 2012 and 2013 are included in this recall. Owners can verify if their vehicle is affected by:
- Contacting the Hyundai Customer Experience Team at 1800 186 306
- Checking their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) at vehiclerecalls.gov.au/recalls/rec-006298
Hyundai has confirmed that all necessary repair work will be carried out free of charge at authorized dealerships.
Expert Recommendations
Responding promptly to vehicle recalls helps maintain safety on the roads. The nature of electrical fires means they can develop quickly and with little warning, making timely attention to this recall important.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is wrong with the recalled Hyundai ix35 vehicles?
There is a manufacturing defect that allows brake fluid to leak into the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) control module. This leakage can cause an electrical short circuit, which may lead to a fire in the engine compartment whether the vehicle is parked or being driven.
How do I know if my Hyundai ix35 is affected by this recall?
The recall affects 8,794 Hyundai ix35 vehicles manufactured between 2012 and 2013. You can check if your vehicle is included by contacting the Hyundai Customer Experience Team at 1800 186 306 or by checking your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) at vehiclerecalls.gov.au/recalls/rec-006298.
What should I do while waiting for my vehicle to be repaired?
Hyundai advises parking your vehicle in an open space away from flammable materials and structures—not in a garage. If your vehicle displays an engine warning light, stop driving immediately and contact your local Hyundai dealer.
Will I have to pay for the recall repairs?
No. Hyundai has confirmed that all repair work related to this recall will be carried out free of charge at authorized Hyundai dealerships.
Has anyone been injured because of this defect?
The recall notices provided don’t specifically mention if there have been any injuries or accidents caused by this defect. However, the regulatory authorities have highlighted that vehicle fires pose serious risks of injury or death to vehicle occupants, other road users, and bystanders.
Are there any legal actions being taken regarding this recall?
Yes. Bannister Law has urged affected owners to register for a class action against Hyundai and Kia due to the ABS control module defect.
