Search

Seatbelt Recall Impacts 200,000 Hyundai Vehicles

Posted on 6/3/2022 by Roger Marks

A major car maker is recalling more than 200,000 vehicles due to faulty seatbelt pretensioners. During a crash, the seatbelt pretensioner may “deploy abnormally,” causing metal fragments to injure the driver or passengers.

To ensure safe transportation of the recalled parts, car dealerships and service shops must recognize that seatbelt pretensioners are regulated as hazardous materials in transportation.  
NHTSA Recall Notice (May 19, 2022) 

Why Are Seatbelts Hazmat?

A seatbelt pretensioner activates when it senses the vehicle decelerate abruptly. An explosive or electrical charge moves a piston, which spins a spool that holds the seatbelt fabric. This tightens the belt to limit movement during an accident.

We see how the seatbelt mechanism works in this video clip, courtesy of the Slo-Mo Guys YouTube channel. Red paint was added for visual effect.

 
 

Typically, safety devices (including seatbelt pretensioners) may be shipped as Class 9 hazardous materials under UN 3268 when they meet specific design and testing standards (49 CFR 173.166(b)(1)). 

The phrase “explosive safety device” may sound like an oxymoron, but hazardous materials play a crucial role in protecting drivers and passengers. Like seatbelt pretensioners, car airbags utilize an explosive charge to deploy instantly.

Vehicles Affected by the Recall

The recall of seatbelt pretensioners impacts about 1% of the following vehicles:

  • Hyundai Accent (2019—2022 model years)
  • Elantra (2021—2023), and
  • Elantra HEV (2021—2022)

To fix the defect, the automaker will secure the device’s micro gas generator and delivery system to control the deployment of gas during an accident.

This is not the first time that seatbelt pretensioners have been subject to recall action.  In 2018, Ford recalled about two million F-150 trucks following reports of smoking seatbelt pretensioners.

Seatbelt Recall Impacts 200,000 Hyundai Vehicles

Hazmat Auto Parts Shipper Training

Learn the requirements that apply to safety devices like seatbelt pretensioners and airbag modules/inflators, both regulated as hazardous materials when shipped by ground, air, or vessel. The Shipping Automotive Airbags and Other Safety Devices online course is available when you want, where you want.

Access training from any internet connection, stop and start as needed to fit your schedule, and receive a trusted hazmat training Certificate from Lion Technology when you complete the course.

Find a Post

Compliance Archives

Lion - Quotes

Excellent class, super instructor, very easy to follow. No rushing through material. Would like to take his class again.

Lawrence Patterson

EH&S Facility Maintenance & Security Manager

I have been to other training companies, but Lion’s material is much better and easier to understand.

Mark Abell

Regional Manager

Having the tutorial buttons for additional information was extremely beneficial.

Sharon Ziemek

EHS Manager

I attended training from another provider and learned absolutely nothing. Lion is much better. Hands down.

Nicole Eby

Environmental Specialist

The workshop covered a lot of information without being too overwhelming. Lion is much better, more comprehensive than other training providers.

George Alva

Manufacturing Manager

This is a very informative training compared to others. It covers everything I expect to learn and even a lot of new things.

Quatama Jackson

Waste Management Professional

Convenient; I can train when I want, where I want.

Barry Cook

Hazmat Shipping Professional

Our instructor was very dynamic and kept everyone's interest. Hazmat shipping can be a dry, complicated topic but I was engaged the entire time.

Kimberly Arnao

Senior Director of EH&S

The instructor took a rather drab set of topics and brought them to life with realistic real-life examples.

Tom Berndt

HSE Coordinator

Very good. I have always appreciated the way Lion Tech develops, presents and provides training and materials.

John Troy

Environmental Specialist

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

The definitive 10-step guide for new hazardous materials shipping managers. Quickly reference the major considerations and details that impact hazmat shipping compliance.

Latest Whitepaper

By submitting your phone number, you agree to receive recurring marketing and training text messages. Consent to receive text messages is not required for any purchases. Text STOP at any time to cancel. Message and data rates may apply. View our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.