Hyundai Recalls 4,490 Veloster Coupés Over Parking Brake Fault
Manual-transmission 2012 Hyundai Velosters built between July 2011 and February 2012 face recall in the US due to a defect that could cause the parking brake to fail.
Hyundai has issued a recall for 4,490 units of the 2012 Veloster equipped with manual transmissions in the United States. The action follows concerns that the parking brake may not function correctly, potentially allowing the vehicle to move unintentionally if parked on an incline.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) outlined that moisture and road grime can cause the parking brake components to bind. If this occurs, the parking brake may drag while driving or fail to engage fully when the car is parked. In the worst case, this could result in the vehicle rolling away, increasing the risk of a crash.
The affected Velosters were produced between 2 July 2011 and 27 February 2012. Only models fitted with a manual gearbox are included in the recall. Hyundai dealers will address the defect by replacing the rear brake caliper assemblies at no cost to owners. The recall is scheduled to begin in January, and Hyundai is advising owners to contact the company for further information.
How the parking brake defect presents a risk
A malfunctioning parking brake is a particular concern for vehicles with manual transmissions, as they rely more heavily on the handbrake to prevent movement when parked. If the parking brake binds or fails to engage, there is a risk that the car could roll away if left on a slope, especially if the driver does not leave the vehicle in gear. The NHTSA notes that the defect could also cause the brake to drag while driving, potentially leading to premature wear or reduced braking performance.
Context: Previous Veloster recalls
This is not the first recall for the 2012 Hyundai Veloster. In a previous action, Hyundai recalled thousands of Velosters over concerns that the panoramic glass roof could shatter unexpectedly. The current parking brake issue is unrelated but highlights a challenging launch period for the model. For more on the earlier recall, seeHyundai Recalls 13,500 Veloster Coupés Over Panoramic Sunroof Fault
What owners should do next
Owners of affected vehicles should receive notification from Hyundai. Until the recall repair is completed, drivers are advised to ensure the parking brake is fully engaged and to leave the car in gear when parked. For further information, Hyundai’s customer service can be reached at 1-800-633-5151.
This recall adds to a series of recent safety actions across the industry addressing brake-related defects. For a broader view of similar issues, seeRecall Roundup 250000 Cars Globally for Braking Problems
