What to do when old safety recall problems reoccur

Q: “In 2009 there was a safety recall concerning the suspension’s rear trailing arms of the Hyundai 2003 Santa Fe. Recently one of the trailing arms of my father-in-law’s 2003 Santa Fe failed due to corrosion, and the coil spring punched right through it. Will Hyundai fix this now?”—Steve K, Ottawa

A: This is an old recall; it’s possible the repair was already performed years ago, perhaps badly, and that the recent failure is a second occurrence of the problem. The dealer will now be unable to get reimbursed by Hyundai for redoing the work. Instead, send a letter to Hyundai Canada and contact the defects investigation branch at Transport Canada (Tel: 1-800-333-0510). Provide photos, if possible, and attach a written description or estimate from your dealer. Still no satisfaction? The Automobile Protection Association may be able to help.

George Iny is the president of the Automobile Protection Association. Send him your automotive questions at [email protected]