The company is recalling Sonata models manufactured since December 2009, following a probe into steering problems by US authorities last month.

The Sonata is Hyundai's best-selling model in the key US market, accounting for around 35% of sales.

Hyundai said the recall was a precaution, with no accidents reported.

Car makers have been quick to act on safety concerns in recent months, following the massive recall of Toyota cars earlier this year.

Hyundai's recall is small, however, compared with Toyota's, which involved eight million vehicles worldwide.