Analysis: Cars recalled worldwide in 2017

South Korean car manufacturers Hyundai and Kia were ordered by authorities to recall 240,000 vehicles in South Korea. This was a result of several defects discovered, including issues with the parking brake lights and fuel hoses, and would affect models such as the Hyundai Elantra and Sonata.

This recall, though pales in comparison to a recall last month for 1.5 million cars in the US and South Korea from the same manufacturers. This was for 5 models including Hyundai's Sonata and Grandeur and was done because of potential engine stalling.

Here's a look at the various recalls that have been issued this year, compiled from news reports.

If you look at the table above, you will see that several recalls have to do with airbags, especially those made by Takata. 13 carmakers issued a recall for 652,000 cars in the US in March, cars which were fitted with the Takata airbags.

This is actually part of the world's largest recall, which started first in 2008 and could potentially affect over 100 million vehicles from several manufacturers. The issue was that because of a volatile chemical in the airbags, it could suddenly explode and send metal shrapnel into passengers. At least 11 have died and 200 hurt in the US because of these exploding Takata airbags.

Car owners in India have been affected by the Takata recall too in 2017 with Honda recalling around 42,000 cars—including models such as the City, Accord and Civic—and Toyota recalling 23,000 units of the Corolla Altis.

Because there is no official policy on car recalls in India, presently any such recall is voluntarily done by the manufacturer.