Great Wall Motor Recalls 17,916 Hover CUVs for Steering Defect
Chinese manufacturer Great Wall Motor is recalling nearly 18,000 Hover CUVs built between April 2005 and July 2006 due to a steering gear problem that may cause difficult handling.
Great Wall Motor, a major Chinese SUV manufacturer, has initiated a recall of 17,916 Hover CUVs in China after discovering a defect in the vehicles’ steering gear. The recall was announced through a report submitted to China’s General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (GAQSIQ). The affected vehicles were manufactured between 1 April 2005 and 28 July 2006. This action reflects the company’s response to a safety issue that could impact driver control and overall road safety.
Great Wall Hover CUV Recall: Details and Background
Nature of the Steering Gear Problem
According to the recall report, the main problem involves oil leakage and oil blockage within the left cavity of the steering gear. This fault results in abnormal oil pressure in the power booster system, which in turn makes the vehicle significantly harder to steer. The issue is particularly pronounced when drivers attempt to navigate bends or corners, where increased steering effort may be required. If the steering becomes too difficult, the risk of losing control of the vehicle rises, especially at higher speeds or in emergency manoeuvres.
The technical defect was identified during quality inspections and subsequently reported by Great Wall Motor to the national regulator. The company’s submission to the GAQSIQ outlined both the mechanical symptoms and the potential safety hazards associated with the steering system flaw. This transparency is consistent with regulatory requirements for automotive recalls in China.
Timeline and Scope of the Recall
The recall campaign officially began on 25 November 2008. It covers Hover CUVs produced over a 16-month period, from April 2005 to July 2006. The number of vehicles affected, 17,916, represents a significant portion of Great Wall’s output for this model during that time. The Hover CUV was one of the company’s key models, known for its popularity in China’s growing SUV market in the mid-2000s.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Affected model | Great Wall Hover CUV |
| Number of vehicles | 17,916 |
| Production period | 1 April 2005 – 28 July 2006 |
| Identified fault | Oil leakage and blockage in steering gear left cavity |
| Main risk | Difficult steering, especially when cornering |
| Recall start date | 25 November 2008 |
| Regulatory body | GAQSIQ (China) |
Implications for Owners and Response Measures
Owners of the affected Hover CUVs are advised to contact their local Great Wall Motor dealership or use the GAQSIQ hotline and website for further information. The company has stated that it will inspect and repair the steering gear issue at no cost to customers. This includes checking for oil leakage, clearing any blockages, and replacing faulty components where necessary. The aim is to restore normal steering performance and eliminate the safety risk identified by the manufacturer and authorities.
- Contact local Great Wall Motor dealer for recall instructions
- Use GAQSIQ hotline or website for official information
- Repairs and inspections provided free of charge
- Steering gear components will be checked and, if needed, replaced
Role of GAQSIQ and Regulatory Oversight
The General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (GAQSIQ) is responsible for monitoring product safety and enforcing recalls in China. In recent years, the agency has become increasingly active in overseeing automotive quality standards and ensuring manufacturers address defects promptly. This recall is one of several that have occurred as China’s automotive industry expands and consumer protection measures are strengthened.
GAQSIQ provides a platform for consumers to report vehicle defects and access up-to-date recall information. Its involvement in the Hover CUV recall demonstrates the importance of regulatory oversight in maintaining vehicle safety and public confidence in domestic car brands.
Context: Great Wall Hover CUV and the Chinese SUV Market
The Hover CUV played a significant role in Great Wall Motor’s rise as a leading SUV manufacturer in China. Launched in the mid-2000s, the model contributed to the company’s rapid growth and helped establish its reputation in the competitive utility vehicle segment. However, as the Chinese automotive market matured, quality and safety standards came under closer scrutiny from both regulators and consumers.
This recall is part of a broader trend of heightened attention to vehicle safety in China. Manufacturers are increasingly required to respond quickly to defects and cooperate with authorities to resolve issues. The Hover CUV recall highlights the challenges faced by local carmakers as they adapt to evolving expectations and regulatory frameworks.
What Should Hover CUV Owners Do Next?
Owners should take prompt action if their vehicle falls within the affected production dates. By contacting Great Wall Motor or the GAQSIQ, they can confirm whether their car is subject to the recall and schedule the necessary inspection and repairs. Addressing the steering gear defect quickly will help ensure continued safety on the road and maintain the value of their vehicle.
