The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has announced that it is ramping up its investigation of Hyundai ’s Elantra sedan. The NHTSA has now received more than 500 complaints of air bag malfunctions in 2001-2002 Elantra models.
The NHTSA has discovered that the air bag malfunctions could be the result of poorly placed cup holders. According to Automotive News, the Elantra’s air bag sensor is close to the vehicle’s cup holders, which could be allowing liquids to spill into the module. However, the Elantra’s wiring is also being investigated.
Both Hyundai and the NHTSA have collected 22 crash complaints, 15 of which have resulted in injury. The NHTSA is also looking into two fatal crashes where air bag malfunctions are suspected.
Hyundai says it has received 9,100 warranty claims which could be related to the defect. If a recall is issued, 150,000 vehicles could be involved.
In a separate investigation, the NHTSA is also looking into engine stalling complaints on Hyundai’s 2007-2008 Elantra. The NHTSA has received four complaints, one of which resulted in a crash with injuries. A faulty fuel pump is believed to be the culprit. About 167,000 2007-2008 Elantras are on the road today.
