9/26/2010 7:15:00 PM
NEWS BRIEFS
Mistorqued Steering Column Shafts Prompt Sedan Recall

Hyundai Motor Co. recalled 139,500 Sonata sedans in the U.S. because of a manufacturing defect that could cause drivers to lose steering control, the Associated Press reports.
 

The recall affects 2011 models built between December 11, 2009, and September 10.

“Some of the cars have steering column shafts with connections that may not have been tightened enough or were improperly assembled,” AP reported. “As a result, the steering wheel could become separated from the column or a driver could lose the ability to properly steer the car.”
 

In August the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration began investigating possible steering problems in the the vehicle.
 

Hyundai’s recall comes week after another high-profile automotive recall involving fasteners.
 

A faulty adhesive that reportedly caused Ferrari’s new 458 Italia model to spontaneously catch fire has prompted the Italian carmaker to issue a recall on more than 1,200 of the luxury sport cars. 



Ferrari has decided to replace the unstable fender adhesive on all 458 Italias made in 2010 with mechanical fasteners — specifically, rivets. The recall affects 1,248 cars, valued at about $262,000 each.

The adhesive reportedly was applied to the wheelarch and heatshield assembly.
 

“Adhesive used in the wheelarch assembly has been found to be liable to melt at high temperatures, deforming the wheelarch which can then fall against the exhaust,” reported Auto Express News. “If the car is being driven hard in places with a high ambient temperature, there is also a risk that the adhesive can catch fire,” leading to a larger fire in the engine bay.  ©2010 GlobalFastenerNews.com