Thousands of Hyundai iLoad, iMax people movers recalled over fears manufacturing fault could spark fire

Thousands of Hyundai people movers have been recalled across Australia over fears a manufacturing defect could spark a vehicle fire.

The recall notice issued by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts covers 9826 Hyundai iLoad (TQ-V) and iMax (TQ-W) vehicles, made between 2016 – 2018.

All variants within this model are affected.

“Due to a manufacturing defect, the outer sheath of the electrical cable connecting the fuse box and alternator may deteriorate and cause the wiring to expose,” the recall notice, issued on Tuesday, states.

“This may lead to a short circuit resulting in a vehicle fire.

“A vehicle fire could increase the risk of injury or death to vehicle occupants, other road users and bystanders, and/or damage to property.”

Owners of affected vehicles will be notified in writing and owners will need to schedule with an authorised Hyundai Dealer to have the electrical cable replaced, free of charge.

It follows the car manufacturer issuing a similar notice for 4781 Kona N (OS) and i30 Sedan N (CN7) models, made between 2020 and 2023, on January 17.

A defect was found in the fuel control valve of these models.

“If this occurs, the engine could stall, resulting in a sudden loss of motive power while driving,” the recall notice states.

“A sudden loss of motive power while driving increases the risk of an accident, causing serious injury or death to vehicle occupants and other road users.”

The standard Kona SUV 2023 model retails for $49,200 while the latest, and basic, i30 Sedan N (CN7) sells for $56,777.