Autos: Bad Brake for the Excel

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Less than a month after Hyundai Motor America introduced the $4,995 subcompact Excel, the first South Korean-made car to enter the U.S. market, company officials have discovered a problem that could result in complete brake failure. During routine predelivery checks, Hyundai inspectors found that a critical pin was improperly installed in the braking system of three cars. Though no accidents have been reported, the company took no chances. Moving fast, Hyundai executives last week voluntarily recalled all the 4,400 Excels sold in the U.S. Owners were promised free inspections and repairs by Hyundai dealers.

Auto-industry observers were impressed with how quickly Hyundai responded to the situation. Still, it was not the kind of debut that a carmaker dreams about.