Fountain Valley, Calif. – June 5, 2017 – Hyundai Motor America has recalled more than 17,000 sport utility vehicles that could contain defective driver-side seatbelts. The campaign affects the 2017 Santa Fe Sport compact SUV, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. The car maker is unsure what percentage of the vehicles named in the campaign contain the defect. The recall carries the NHTSA serial number 17V365000.
This is the second recall involving the Santa Fe this month, according to The Car Connection. Hyundai issued a voluntary safety recall for more than 437,000 2013-2017 models of the popular SUV, citing the presence of ineffective hood latches.
The Defect
The models involved in this recent campaign could feature driver-side seatbelt assemblies with loose anchor bolts. This possess an immediate risk to operators, as their restraints might give way in the event of the crash, causing them serious injury. However, Hyundai has yet to hear of any accidents or injuries connected to the defect.
Timeline of Events
The car manufacturer has traced this fault back to the factory, as it seems the seatbelt anchor bolts on these vehicles were not sufficiently tightened during assembly.
The Solution
Hyundai has requested dealers to tighten the loose bolts, free of charge, according to the company’s website. Owners are expected to receive notification June 30, 2017. Those in need of immediate assistance can contact Hyundai Customer Service at (855) 671-3059 of the NHTSA Safety Hotline at (800) 424-9153.
