Hyundai’s customer service campaign will involve inspecting and strengthening all 46,000 Excels sold in Australia that were built during this period – whether they need it or not. The decision to conduct this campaign was made locally, based on local issues.

To put to rest any concerns about the sub-frame and to give our customers peace of mind, we will use high-grade steel rivets – similar to those used in the aviation industry – to strengthen the affected area on both sides of the car.

This procedure will be carried out at no cost to owners.

We made this decision after a detailed examination with FORS. This is the appropriate course of action to reassure customers about the long-term integrity of the sub-frame.

To further reassure owners about our confidence in the solution, Hyundai Motor Company will provide a lifetime warranty on the strengthened area of the sub-frame.

We at Hyundai have, at all times, acted in good faith and in the best interests of our customers in relying on expert engineering advice to develop the most appropriate technical solution, together with FORS.

It would have been irresponsible to announce a "quick fix" solution that had not been discussed in proper detail with FORS.

It must be stressed that owners of these cars have been driving their Excels for more than two-and-a-half years. Only a very small number of cars has been identified as having a problem and there have been no reports of injuries.

This is an extensive program and will take time to implement. To keep our customers informed, we are sending them information by registered mail tonight.

In addition, we will mount an extensive advertising campaign as well as maintaining our customer information hotline, 1-800 701 102.

Anyone who has an immediate concern about the steering behaviour of their car should contact their dealer without delay.

All other owners of the cars built within the dates above should contact their dealer and book in their car for the inspection and strengthening procedure at a convenient time.