For July to September, Hyundai reported a net loss of almost $300 million when analysts had predicted a big profit.

The South Korean automaker is the world's fifth largest when combined with affiliate Kia, but the pair have faced years long problems with engine defects that increase the risk off stalling and fire in ALS.

That's cost them nearly $5 billion.

They also face a probe by U.

S authorities over whether they handled related recalls in a proper manner.

In a statement Monday, Hyundai apologized to investors for the persistent problems, but analysts said it could all have Bean much worse.

Hyundai actually enjoyed strong sales over the period in the US and emerging markets, including India.