The 1990 Hyundai Excel has 4 recalls, the most serious being two related fuel system defects where a side-impact collision can puncture the fuel tank or cause fuel to spill at levels that exceed safety limits, creating a fire risk.
The two fuel system recalls describe the same underlying vulnerability: in a side impact, the rear left-hand spring seat can pierce the fuel tank, and crash testing showed that fuel leakage exceeded the maximum allowable amount. Either way, spilled fuel near a heat or ignition source can result in a fire during or after a collision.
The remaining two recalls both involve the front hub lock washer, the small retaining component that sits under the nut holding the front wheel hub to the driveshaft. This washer can crack, allowing the wheel bearing to develop play and then sustain damage. As bearing damage progresses, the wheel can lock up without warning or knock back the brake caliper, reducing braking effectiveness and potentially causing the driver to lose control. Prior repair attempts did not fully resolve the issue, which is why two separate filings address the same underlying part.
At a glance
What can fail
In a driver's side impact crash, the rear left spring seat could pierce the fuel tank, causing fuel to leak.
What the fix does
A protective shield will be installed on the spring seat to prevent it from puncturing the fuel tank.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
The fuel tank can leak excessively when the vehicle is struck on the side, exceeding safety limits for fuel spillage during impact.
What the fix does
Hyundai will install a fix that makes the fuel system meet safety standards for side-impact protection.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The lock washer securing the front hub to the driveshaft may crack due to improper heat treatment, causing wheel bearing freeplay and damage, which could lead to wheel lock-up or brake caliper knockback.
What the fix does
The lock washer will be replaced.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The lock washer under the nut securing the front hub to the drive shaft may have improper heat treatment, causing it to crack.
What the fix does
Replace the lock washer on each front wheel and repair the surrounding area as needed.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
