Hyundai Tucson recalled over bonnet latch
Update - A spokesperson from Hyundai Australia clarified that the fault only occurs if the bonnet has been left unlatched but still closed, see article for details.
Hyundai has issued a recall for 17,134 of its current-generation ‘TL’ and ‘TLe’ Tucson SUVs over concerns the vehicle's bonnet could open while the vehicle is in motion.
The Korean car maker reports that the secondary safety latch of the bonnet could potentially unlatch the bonnet while the Tucson is in motion.
If the bonnet is left unlatched (ajar, but still closed) and the car is driven, the bonnet could lift suddenly and block the driver’s vision, posing an accident hazard to the driver and other road users. If the bonnet is properly closed on the main latch there is no issue.
One driver in New Zealand has experienced the fault, however no injuries or accidents occurred as a result of the bonnet becoming unlatched. A spokesperson from Hyundai Australia has confirmed that there have been no occurrences reported in Australia or anywhere else in the world.
Affected vehicles fall between the following VIN ranges:
TL: KMHJ*81***U000324 ~ KMHJ*81***U208048
TLe: TMAJ3****GJ000050 ~ TMAJ3****GJ168155
Customers affected by the recall will be notified by Hyundai Australia. A 20-minute fix at a Hyundai dealer is required to rectify the fault, free of charge.
For more information Tucson owners can contact Hyundai Australia customer care on 1800 186 306.