Hyundai Palisade Braking Defect Lawsuit: What California Owners Should Know

What’s the Issue

A class action lawsuit—Maldonado et al. v. Hyundai Motor America—was filed on May 9, 2025 in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. It alleges that 2023–2025 Hyundai Palisade SUVs equipped with anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and/or traction control systems (TCS) may miscalculate wheel speed on uneven surfaces. This malfunction can cause the brakes to rapidly release and reapply, resulting in unexpectedly long stopping distances.(

Plaintiffs claim that Hyundai was aware of these braking issues—via internal testing, early consumer complaints, and warranty data—but has failed to disclose or effectively address them. Some drivers report their concerns were dismissed as “normal” by dealerships.

Why It Matters — Safety & Legal Perspective

  • Serious Safety Hazard
    Increased stopping distances and erratic braking responses over typical road surfaces pose a real collision risk.

  • Potential Deceptive Practices
    Promoting the Palisade as a high-safety vehicle while allegedly concealing brake defects may violate consumer protection laws, including California’s Unfair Competition Law or False Advertising statutes.

  • Class Action vs. Individual Claims
    While the class action covers owners in New York and Ohio, California residents can explore individual remedies—particularly through Lemon Law claims—if the defect persists despite repeated repairs.

What You Should Do

  1. Document Your Experience
    Note any abnormal braking behavior, especially on uneven roads; keep service records and communications with Hyundai or dealerships.

  2. Stay Updated on Legal Developments
    Monitor the status of this class action lawsuit and any expansions. You may not have to actively join it to benefit from its outcomes.

  3. Understand Your Options as a California Owner
    If brake malfunctions continue despite repairs, you may qualify for relief under California’s Lemon Law or consumer protection statutes—even if you’re not part of the class action.

  4. Seek Expert Advice if Needed
    Persistent performance issues—and their effect on safety—can have legal implications and merit a professional review.

Contact Us!

If you drive a 2023–2025 Hyundai Palisade in California and are encountering brake or traction issues, we’re here to help.

Contact Valero Law, APC at (424) 299-4447, or fill out our free Lemon Law case review form to explore your options and protect your rights.

HyundaiJoshua ValeroHyundai Palisade, Hyundai Lemon Law