Feds Probe 2011 Hyundai Sonata for Steering Problems

Just the Facts:

• NTHSA is investigating the 2011 Hyundai Sonata for a possible steering problem.
• Over 16,000 Sonatas are included in the evaluation.
• Two complaints have been reported.

WASHINGTON — The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened an investigation into an estimated 16,300 2011 Hyundai Sonatas after reports of steering problems.

The investigation, which is formally called a preliminary evaluation, is sometimes the precursor to a recall.

"We will fully cooperate with the investigation and resolve any issues," said James P. Trainor, Hyundai Motor America spokesman, in a phone conversation late Tuesday with Inside Line. "We have received two complaints for different issues and have repaired the vehicles."

He said there were no injuries or accidents associated with the complaints.

NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigations said the complaints "allege either a separation of the intermediate steering shaft assembly upper universal joint resulting in a complete loss of steering capability and/or a cross-threaded pinch bolt that caused stripped-out threads and loosening, but not complete separation of the upper universal joint connection."

It said the vehicles were manufactured during the same month and had fewer than 600 miles of service at the time of the alleged incidents.

Hyundai recalled 5,893 2011 Sonata vehicles on February 24 to fix faulty door latches.

Inside Line says: If you own the aforementioned 2011 Sonata, be aware of the investigation. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent