The problem
Hyundai is recalling 393,308 my 2006-2008 sonata vehicles equipped with an advanced air bag system which features an occupant classification system (ocs) in the right front seat. The purpose of the ocs is to disable the right passenger seat front air bag when it detects the presence of a child restraint system or small child in the right front seat. The right front air bag is disabled to prevent injuries to a child that May result from a right front air bag inflation during a crash.
The risk
Misclassification of a small stature adult as a child in the right front passenger seat May cause the right front air bag to not inflate in an accident that merits air bag deployment and May result in injury to the right front occupant.
The fix
Dealers will verify that the ocs does not properly recognize a properly seated adult occupant. After verification, dealers will remove the right front seat cushion assembly and ship it to an evaluation and repair facility. This facility will evaluate and repair or reprogram the seat cushion and ocs as necessary. The recall is expected to begin on or about May 26, 2008. Owners May contact Hyundai at 1-800-633-5151.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 08V-161 (08V161000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 083 |
| Manufacturer | Hyundai Motor America |
| Component | Air bags |
| Report date | April 10, 2008 |
| Owners notified | June 2, 2008 |
| Vehicles affected | 393,308 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the air bags
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 08V-161 repair free?
Yes. Hyundai dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will verify that the ocs does not properly recognize a properly seated adult occupant. After verification, dealers will remove the right front seat cushion assembly and ship it to an evaluation and repair facility.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 393,308 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.