The automaker has been accused of failing to report in a timely manner a 2009-2012 Genesis defect, which had caused corrosion and failure of the brake system components.
The agency opened an investigation last year after receiving dozens of complaints alleging reduced braking performance. The issue was traced to incorrect brake fluid and initially handled via a technical service bulletin, before an NHTSA investigation prompted the company to elevate the status to a safety recall.
“While there have been no fatalities relating to this safety defect, six consumers reported collisions, including two reports of injuries,” the NHTSA said in a statement. “As of January 14, 2014, Hyundai had received 87 consumer complaints with regard to Genesis vehicles, most of which suggest increased difficulty in braking.”
Hyundai has issued a statement acknowledging the fine but avoiding any admission of wrongdoing, noting that no “serious injuries” were caused by the defect. The company claims to have already fixed a majority of the recalled vehicles.
“In order to mitigate a situation like this in the future, Hyundai is instituting new organizational and process improvements, and enhancing the ability of the U.S. leadership team to readily respond to regulatory reporting requirements,” said Hyundai’s US chief, David Zuchowski.
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