Hyundai is recalling 17,000 of its first-generation Sante Fe models produced between July 200 and June 2003 and its Trajet produced between January 200 and May 2004.

The 17,000 affected could have a corrosion problem caused by winter road salt conditions in the UK which could affect the structural integrity of suspension trailing arms.

Customers are being urged to take in their cars for inspection at their local dealership.

Most vehicles will be inspected and a minor upgrade to the rear suspension trailing arms will be made, comprising of additional drainage and corrosion inhibition.

Following the inspection, a small proportion of older cars will need replacement of trailing arms, which will be undertaken free of charge.

For owners of these vehicles, alternative transport will be provided for the duration of the repair.

There are no reported accidents as a result of the corrosion, and Hyundai is asking for the vehicles to be inspected as a “quality measure”.