Hyundai-Kia to Recall 1.9 Million Cars in Two Campaigns

Hyundai Motor Co. and its Kia Motors affiliate will recall nearly 1.7 million vehicles in the U.S. to replace faulty brake switches that could cause several safety-related problems.

In a separate action, Hyundai will recall 186,300 Elantra sedans from the 2011-2013 model years next month to adhere a headliner support bracket that can come loose when side airbags are triggered.

In the larger recall, which is expected to begin in June, the defective switch does not affect the vehicle's ability to brake. But it can prevent brake lights from illuminating and cruise control from deactivating when the brakes are applied, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Cruise control can still be turned off manually.

The flaw also can keep the push-button engine starter from working consistently, and it can prevent the automatic transmission from shifting out of Park. The defect may interfere with the transmission brake-shift interlock, thus permitting a parked vehicle to roll away unexpectedly.

The campaign involves Hyundai vehicles from model years 2007-2011, including Accent, Elantra and Sonata sedans, Genesis luxury sedans and Santa Fe, Tucson and Veracruz crossover vehicles.

The recall also includes Kia models from the same period, including Optima sports sedans, Rondo small wagons, Soul small MPVs, Sedona minivans and Sorento and Sportage crossovers.