Hyundai recalls 883 000 Sonata sedans

DETROIT, Michigan - Hyundai is recalling 883 000 Sonata sedans to fix problems with the gearshift levers - but once again in the industry crisis, South Africa has escaped the scalpel.

The recall covers units assembled in the US from December 11 2009 through to May 29 2014. Hyundai SA takes its stock from Korea so is not involved - local Sonata owners can, well, drive on...

The Korean/American automaker says the US auto transmission shift cable could separate from the shift lever. If that happens, the lever may not show the correct gear, increasing the risk of a crash.

NON-STARTER

Hyundai US also reported, in documents posted Wednesday (July 30 2014) by the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, that the driver could think the vehicle was in "Park" which actually still in "Drive" and possibly roll away.

Another symptom was the engine failing to start: cause: the shift sticking in "Park" and so disabling the ignition system.

Hyundai has received 1171 warranty claims about the problem, plus seven reports with related symptoms. The documents didn't say if there had been any crashes or injuries.

The Sonata has been Hyundai's second best-selling car in the US so far in 2014; its Elantra is the leader.

Hyundai will notify owners by letter between now and the end of September. Dealers will inspect the shift cables and repair the connection if needed.