Hyundai-Kia America Technical Center Inc. has announced a recall on its 2006, 2007 and 2008 Hyundai Sonata vehicles that is expected to begin on or around May 26, 2008, due to a faulty right front passenger airbag system.

The right front passenger seat contains sensors programmed to detect the difference between a child and an adult, and turn the airbag off or on accordingly. The ?Occupant Classification System? (OCS) in the recalled Sonatas, however, may improperly classify a small stature adult as a child and disable the airbag inappropriately. The consequence of such an error could be catastrophic in the event of a serious car accident that merits airbag deployment.

Consumers are advised to take their 2006-2008 Hyundai Sonatas to their local Hyundai dealer to have the OCS tested. Hyundai can be contacted at 1-800-633-5151.

Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Campaign ID 08V161000, April 23, 2008.