2012-2013 Hyundai Azera recalled for passenger airbag fault

Wed, 03 Jul 2013

Hyundai is recalling 5,200 units of its Azera sedan over a possible airbag sensor malfunction. The occupant detection system in models built between May 22, 2012 and November 23, 2012 might not be able to tell what kind of passenger (adult, child, or child seat) is in the front seat, which could cause improper deployment of the airbag.

Azeras from the 2012 and 2013 model year are affected. Hyundai hasn't yet said when owners will be notified, but once that happens, they'll be able to take their sedans to dealers to have the system recalibrated free of charge. There's a bulletin from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration below with more information.

Report Receipt Date: JUN 25, 2013
NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V264000

Component(s): AIR BAGS
Potential Number of Units Affected: 5,200
Vehicle Model Year(s) Make Model: 2012-2013 HYUNDAI AZERA
Manufacturer: Hyundai-Kia America Technical Center Inc

SUMMARY:
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Azera vehicles manufactured May 22, 2012, through November 23, 2012. The occupant detection system may fail to properly differentiate whether the front passenger seat occupant is an adult, a child or a child restraint seat.

CONSEQUENCE:
If the occupant is incorrectly classified, in the event of a crash necessitating airbag deployment, the airbag may deploy with greater or lesser force than appropriate, resulting in an increased risk of injury.

REMEDY:
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will recalibrate the airbag system. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Hyundai's recall number is "Campaign 111." Owners may contact Hyundai at 1-734-337-9499.

NOTES:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

By Jonathon Ramsey