The problem
On certain passenger vehicles equipped with a traction control system (TCS), if the t125/70d-15 compact spare tire is installed on a front wheel position, the TCS May inadvertently activate beginning at speeds of 20 MPH.
The risk
Inadvertent activation of the TCS will cause automatic application of the brake at the wheel where the compact spare tire is installed. Inadvertent brake application could cause overheating and damage to the brake, and May prevent the vehicle from being driven at speeds above 20 MPH, which could result in a crash.
The fix
Dealers will replace the spare tire with a new larger diameter t125/80r-15 compact spare tire and a new tire pressure label will be installed on the driver's door to provide information applicable to the t125/80r-15 compact spare tire. Vehicles produced from November 15, 2002 through December 16 2002, already contain t125/80r-15 compact spare tires, will only require new tire pressure labels. Owner notification began June 30, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Hyundai at 1-800-633-5151.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 03V-097 (03V097000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 059 |
| Manufacturer | Hyundai Motor America |
| Component | Tires › Temporary/emergency spare tire |
| Report date | March 17, 2003 |
| Owners notified | June 30, 2003 |
| Vehicles affected | 8,315 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the wheels & tires
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 03V-097 repair free?
Yes. Hyundai dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace the spare tire with a new larger diameter t125/80r-15 compact spare tire and a new tire pressure label will be installed on the driver's door to provide information applicable to the t125/80r-15 compact spare tire.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 8,315 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.