The 1990 Hyundai Excel has 4 recalls, the most serious being a fuel tank that can rupture or leak excessively in a side-impact collision, spilling enough fuel to cause a fire if it reaches an ignition source.
The other significant concern involves the front hub lock washers, which can crack and allow the wheel bearing to develop play. Over time, this bearing damage can lead to wheel lockup or cause the brake caliper to shift, resulting in loss of vehicle control.
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.
